Known in decades past as Madras, this bustling Indian city offers travellers and tourists great shopping and gastronomic adventures, as most main other Indian cities do. However, among the many things to do in Chennai, India, a veritable urban metropolis, are also a number of activities that will definitely appeal to nature and wildlife lovers, which are accessible via short day trips to nearby regions. One such example would be paying a visit to the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary which is located near the outskirts of the neighbouring state of Andra Pradesh. This sanctuary is home to around 187 bird varieties, fifty of which are migratory, and is a crucial stop on the migratory route of birds such as the spot-billed pelican.
Another place that you can visit is the border town of Nagalapuram which straddles the state line between Tamil Nadu, in which Chennai is located, and Andra Pradesh. This town is around a hundred kilometres away from Tamil Nadu’s capital of Chennai, and around a two and a half hour drive away from hotels in the capital such as Turyaa Chennai, many of which will be happy to help arrange excursions here during the day. This town is a real haven for nature lovers as its landscape is peppered with many a mountain and hill, such as the Nagala hills. These hills are popular with those who love outdoor adventures as they offer a good place to go on treks and hikes, and is also known as a good spot for camping and mountaineering. The varied nature of the trails here allows for outdoorsmen and women of all experience and endurance levels from novices to pros, to enjoy exploring the hills. The landscape here is quite rugged and rocky, with some areas offering steeper inclines than others, and you will also find that little, meandering streams interweave their way among the rough terrain, some of which end up in mini fresh water pools. Waterfalls can also be found here and offer great selfie opportunities.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
