karan bhalla, Karan Bhalla PMO, Karan Bhalla Encompass, karan bhalla arrest, karan bhalla fraud, karan bhalla cheating, karan bhalla CBI - 5 Lesser Known Getaways Near Chennai You Probably Haven’t Been To

Be it the amazing Marina Beach or a view from St. Thomas Mount, an awesome dance performance at Kalakshetra or a walk in the Theosophical Society at Adyar, you must have seen Chennai and appreciated its rich culture and architecture.

Now is the time to pack your bags and head outside of the “Land of Dosas and Pongal” to explore the surrounding locales. Here is a list of some lesser known weekend getaways from Chennai which you must visit-

1. Horsley Hills

This amazing hill station is located at an altitude of 4,100 ft. The ancient name of the hills was Yenugu Mallamma Konda and it has a very interesting story behind it. Long time back a little girl called Mallamma used to heal tribal people and was taken care of by an elephant. One day she suddenly disappeared and couldn’t be found. People thought that she was a goddess and they built a temple in her memory. Later the name was changed to Horsley hills which is named after a British officer W.D. Horsley. The serene beauty of the place with its museum and lake offers a great opportunity to explore on your own.

How to reach?

Horsley Hills is around 276 Kms from Chennai. Bangalore Airport is the nearest airport which is located at a distance of around 160 kms from the hills. In case you are going by train, the nearest railway station is Manapalle which is 43 kms from the hills. You can book a cab from there or take a public bus which will directly take you to the hills.

Where to stay?

There are limited options for accommodation here. You can check into A.P. Tourism’s Governors’ Bungalow, or the Chittoor Cooperative Society guest house. The AP Tourism’s Haritha Resort and forest guest houses in Horsley Hills are also good options.

2. Muthupet Mangroves

The Mangroves’ lagoon and a boat ride is something you must experience. The lagoon is located 8 kms from the town of Muthupet and can only be reached by boat. Covered by forest on both sides, the site is breathtaking as you reach the point where the brackish water meets the sea. You will also witness amazing birds on the way which can be a treat to photography lovers and bird watchers.

How to reach?

Muthupet is around 348 kms from Chennai. You can take a train or bus to Thanjavur and then hire a personal cab or local transport to reach Muthupet.

Where to stay?

There are a few lodges and hotels in Muthupet. Being a small town, you might not have to go too far from the mangroves lagoon to look for an accommodation.