Chennai is known for its beautiful beaches, temples, culture, and traditions. But do you know Chennai is also famous for some enthralling trekking trails? Located near to the main city, these fascinating trekking trails excite adventure enthusiasts to a large extent. Be it the Nilgiris or Annamalai hills, lakes or waterfalls; these 15 places for trekking near Chennai never fail to delight the hikers.
Best Time To Trek Near Chennai
The winter season from November to February is the best time for trekking near Chennai. The weather then is soothing and pleasant as compared to summer months which are extremely hot and humid. Monsoon season should not be considered for trekking, particularly in the hilly regions.
Top 15 Places For Trekking Near Chennai
From mountain peaks, ranges, and meadows to waterfalls and forests; trekking near Chennai is immensely fascinating and worth trying. Here are the 15 most popular places for trekking near Chennai. Go and give it a try!
1. Ubbalamadugu Falls
Located at the border of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh this is a picturesque cascade amid forest and is famed as one of the most popular places for hiking near Chennai. This is a 10 km stretch trek through dense forests and small streams. The scenic views of the trail have made trekking to Ubbalamadugu Falls a superbly enthralling experience.
Distance from Chennai: 93 km
Trekking days:1 day
Altitude: 100 m
Difficulty level: Easy
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2. Gingee Fort
Settled in the Villupuram district in Pondicherry Gingee Fort, built by the Chola Dynasty is an astounding place one can choose for trekking near Chennai. The three hills which one can trek to reach this fort are Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg and each of them offers a stunning view of the surroundings. It is always advisable to carry light snacks and drinking water as there is no shop on the way and one must start the trekking activity early in the morning as the fort gate closes every day at 3 pm.
Distance from Chennai: 156 km
Trekking days: 4-5 hours
Altitude: 800 feet
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
3. Parvathamalai Mountain
Known for its rocky undulating terrain and forest trails; Parvathamalai Mountain is a moderately difficult trek, opted by professional and passionate trekkers. This 3-hour long trek ends at an age-old Shiva Temple which is one of the most popular hills near Chennai for trekking at night. Trekkers even enjoy camping facilities here making the trek worth in every aspect.
Distance from Chennai: 190 km
Trekking days: 3 hours
Altitude: 250 feet
Difficulty level: Difficult
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4. Yelagiri
Yelagiri has gained popularity in recent times owing to its serene and surreal beauty. This offbeat hill station of Tamil Nadu offers breathtaking beauty and peace to every heart and its verdant hills and rolling valleys have become one of the popular trekking spots close to Chennai. Perched at an altitude of 3600 feet, popular zones for trekking in Yelagiri are SwamiMalai Hills and Peerumedu Hills.
Distance from Chennai: 228 km
Trekking days: 3 -4 hours
Altitude: 1700 m
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
5. Yercaud
Shevroy Hill range, Bear Cave, Lady Seat, and Killiyur Falls are popular places to trek and hike in Yercaud. Surrounded by the opulent Eastern Ghats; Yeracaud is amongst the most scenic options for trekking near Chennai. Not only it offers spellbinding views but trekking through dense forests gives you an adrenaline rush like never before. You can even pitch your tent and enjoy camping there.
Distance from Chennai: 267 km
Trekking days: NA
Altitude: 1623 m
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
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6. Talakona Waterfalls
Talakona Waterfalls is the tallest and one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh and the trekking trail through the dense sandalwood forest is even more riveting and captivating. The trek is moderately difficult and immensely refreshing owing to the spectacular view from the top of the cascade. Plunging from a height of 270 feet, this waterfall is said to have medicinal properties and is counted as one of the favourite picnic spots amongst locals and tourists. But what makes it stand out in the list of best trekking places near Chennai is the enthralling rope walk. Perched at a height of 40 feet from the ground; this rope walk passing over canopies and streams needs a lot of courage and enthusiasm and offers unlimited thrill and excitement in return.
Distance from Chennai: 190 km
Trekking days: 2-3 hours
Altitude: 270 feet
Difficulty level: Moderate
7. Kolli Hills
Trekking in Kolli Hills will take you to the next level of adventure and thrill as it is one of the most difficult trekking trails. The trek is fascinating and offers idyllic views of the surroundings but considering its daunting terrain, it is recommended that only professional and expert trekkers go for it. Though it is one of the most challenging and exhausting treks near Chennai and takes a couple of days to complete, the jaw-dropping view of Agaya Gangai Waterfalls at the end of the second day is worth everything.
Distance from Chennai: 359 km
Trekking days: 2 days
Altitude: 1400 m
Difficulty level: Moderate to Difficult
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8. Doddabetta
If you are looking for a thrilling and adventure-loaded trekking experience, Dodabetta is your perfect bet. Undoubtedly one of the most popular trekking spots near Chennai is none other than Dodabetta-the highest peak of the Nilgiris and the entire south India. It is an easy 10 km stretch trek and is highly recommended for novice trekkers. Climb up this gorgeous mountain through Shola forests and misty winding trails and enjoy the stunning views of Mysore Pains, Bandipur Forest, Chamundi Hills and the towns of Coimbatore and Ooty. There is an interesting Telescope House right at the top from which people enjoy such panoramic vistas. Though the entire trek is completed within 2 to 3 hours, it is recommended to start the trek early in the morning for photogenic sunrise views and bird watching.
Distance from Chennai: 565 km
Trekking days: 2-3 hours.
Altitude: 2637 m
Difficulty level: Easy
9. Meesapulimala
Meesapulimala is known for its verdant hills and valleys and breathtaking views. Located near Munnar, this is a favourite trekking option from there. The two-day-long trekking via the opulent Rhodo Valley and Pandava Caves is supremely exhilarating and the charming views and thrill of camping overnight make Meesapulimala, one of the most sought-after trekking places near Chennai too.
Distance from Chennai: 573 km
Trekking days: 2 days
Altitude: 2637 m
Difficulty level: Moderate
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10. Meghamalai Peak
Image Credit: Sivaraj Mathi for Wikimedia Commons
Popular as Pachha Kumachi or Green Peak, this is another popular hotspot for trekking near Chennai, popular among locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary; the trekking trail is quite an enthralling one. Hiking through sprawling tea, coffee and spice plantations makes you tranquillize and spotting wildlife like elephants, sloth bears and leopards during the trek gives a riveting feeling as well. Not only trekking, Meghamalai Peak is also popular for bird watching.
Distance from Chennai: 600 km
Trekking days: 1
Altitude: 1500 m
Difficulty level: Moderate
11. Venkateshwara Hills
Perched within Sri Venkateswara National Park, this is a 48 km long trek and takes about 3 days to complete. The trail starts at Kumaradhara Dam Area and ends at the National Highway close to Kothapally village. The route is captivating, charming and serene and chances of spotting wildlife are also very high. Thus, it is among the top places for trekking from Chennai.
Distance from Chennai: 634 km
Trekking days: 3 days
Altitude: 853 m
Difficulty level: Moderate
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12. Nagalapuram
A mere 2-hour drive from Chennai will take you up to the base of Nagalapuram- a popular and moderately easy waterfall trek. Nestled near Arai Village, this trail through dense forests allows you to spot beautiful flora and fauna and refreshing plunge pools. It is one of the easiest treks near Chennai and can be easily accomplished by first-time trekkers. Moreover, this is one of the best trekking trips from Chennai.
Distance from Chennai: 691 km
Trekking days: 1 day
Altitude: 900 m
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
13. Anthargange Sunrise Trek
Image Credit: solarisgirl for Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking to explore the ancient and natural beauty, Anthargange is one of the most stunning trekking places in Chennai. This trek allows you to witness the mesmerising moment of sunrise. It is an incredible way to witness and capture the breathtaking views of the rising sun and amazing sky scenery. Moreover, the Anthargange trek has rocky paths, ancient caves, and volcanic formations.
Distance from Chennai: 275 km
Trekking days: 1 Day
Altitude: 1712 m
Difficulty level: Moderate
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14. Skandagiri Sunrise Trek
Image Credit: P maneesha for Wikimedia Commons
With an uphill and downhill section, The Skandagiri trekking trail is approximately 8 km long. This trek to the mountain fortress provides a thrilling experience to trekkers, that is rewarding and refreshing. Moreover, this Sunrise Trek offers a dramatic journey through the wilderness that begins at midnight. The sublime environment around Skandagiri under the starlit sky, followed by magnificent views of the rising sun from atop the hill, provides breathtaking sights to behold and cherish.
Distance from Chennai: 338 km
Trekking days: 4-5 Hours
Altitude: 1350m
Difficulty level: Moderate to hard
15. Devarayanadurga Trek
Image Credit: Mishrasasmita for Wikimedia Commons
Looking for a trekking location near Chennai? Devarayanadurga trek offers thrilling adventure and complete rejuvenation. The dense forests and a refreshing climate make it suitable for beginners and amateurs. Furthermore, the Devarayanadurga trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, temples, woodlands, and cityscape. Distance from Chennai: 426 km
Trekking days: 1 day
Altitude: 1200m
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
Further Read: Trekking In Kerala
Trekking near Chennai is fun, thrilling, and exciting and seeks a lot of mental strength, stamina, and endurance. With a bounty of scenic landscape and serenity; these trekking trails have a lot to offer to all adventure freaks and nature lovers. If you are planning a trip to South India, find out some time and experience this fascinating adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trekking Places Near Chennai
Name some popular hill stations near Chennai?
Most popular hill stations near Chennai are:
1. Ooty
2. Kodaikanal
3. Munnar
4. Yelagiri
5. Coonoor
6. Kolli Hills
7. Horsley Hills
Which are the famous forests near Chennai?
The famous forests near Chennai are:
1. Nanmangalam Reserve Forest
2. Madhumalai
3. Meghamalai
4. Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Guindy National Park
7. Nagarhole
What are the popular adventurous things to do in Chennai?
The popular things to do in Chennai are:
1. Shopping for traditional sarees
2. Enjoy rides at MGM Dizzee World
3. Spend a day at Chowki Dhani, Chennai
4. Enjoy south Indian cuisine
Which are the famous beach activities in Chennai?
The famous beach activities in Chennai are swimming, surfing, beach camping, and bonfire, beach volleyball, leisure beach walk and watching the sunrise.
Which are the popular beaches in Chennai?
Beach, Elliot’s Beach, Thiruvanmiyur Beach, Covelong and VGP Golden Beach are the popular beaches in Chennai.
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
