Seek An Adventure With These 10 Best Trekking Places in Chennai

Yelagiri is a hill station located almost 200 km away from Chennai. If you have been living in the city for a while, then you know it is a popular weekend destination. The hilltop is situated between two towns of Vellore, called Vaniyambadi, and Jolarpettai. You can opt for many trails like Jalagamparai waterfalls and Swamimalai Hills, the latter being the highest point, along with some adventure sports like paragliding, rock climbing, and zip lining. 

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours

Difficulty Level: Easy

If you are an adventure enthusiast and are looking for a moderate-level trek that entraps you with lush greenery and glorious views, then Parvathamali is definitely for you. It is 30 km away from Tiruvannamali district, connoted as the most sacred trek of the city because of the 200-year-old Shiva temple on the way. Definitely makes for a solid adventure for all thrill seekers. 

Duration: Approximately 4 hours

Difficulty Level: Moderate

If you are looking for hikes that lead to waterfalls, then Talakona is the place that you should head to. At a height of 270 feet, the waterfall resides in a dense forest that opens up to a deep valley. Again, you can choose from many treks and trails like Kailasakona waterfalls, and Habenaria trail to see the exotic flowers, both of which and enjoy panoramic views all around.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Located in Vellapuram, Gingee Fort is a perfect weekend getaway if you are going to travel with friends and family. There are three hillocks, namely, Rajagiri, Chandragiri, and Krishnagiri. The trek is super easy, with solid stairs all the way up to the top, making the trek kids-friendly. You can relax with a quiet picnic at the bottom of the fort and check out the spectacular city views from the top, making it one of the best places to head to for trekking in Chennai for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 40 to 50 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

A must during monsoons, Tada Falls is a fit for beginner to moderate-level hikers, with clear trails and rocks along the way. The place lies at a 90-kilometre distance from Chennai and offers a 10-kilometre hike. You will see multiple streams and a Shiva temple on your way. We'd suggest packing a proper bag for the hike because there are no stalls in between.

Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate Level

Another very popular trek among families with kids is Ubbalamadugu Falls. It is 20 kilometres from Tada Falls and is an easy hike alongside the water stream. The views are spectacular, with dense forests and multiple streams along the way. We really love how the whole trek is panned out, as everything is readily available along the way, and you don’t have to stress about forgetting a thing or two while packing your backpack. An easy terrain to cover, with a 10 km trek both ways.

Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours

Difficulty Level: Easy

With the scenic views of the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is the most beautiful trek in Chennai. You trek through the dense forest, with the background of chirping birds and frolicking monkeys to reach the top, and it is a very renowned camping site as well. You will easily find folks who offer guided tours and enjoy some good old camping there. There are many trails, and you can take on the 2.7 km route, which leads to the Yercaud Valley hike.

Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate Level

During this trek, you will be crossing thick forests with rugged terrain, and the experience will be super enthralling, to say the least. Kothi Hills is a two-day trek, perfect for those who take treks and adventures very seriously and somewhat have experience in trekking, as it's known to be the most difficult among all. In the end, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Agaya Ganagi waterfalls.

Duration: Approximately 2 days

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

Doddabetta is the highest peak of the Nilgiris and is a solid two to three-hour trek, which we recommend for seasoned hikers. The trail is not beginner-friendly, but the first 10-kilometre stretch is perfect for anyone. You will get stunning views of the Mysore Mountains, Bandipur Forest, Chamundi Hills, and even Ooty on your way.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

Meesapulimala is a two-day trek that crosses the Rhodo Valley and Pandava Caves. It's named after the fact that it form of eight hills, that spread like a mustache. Its beautiful terrain has stellar views, and the camping site is undeniably beautiful, perfect for a long weekend. An eight km hike, with lush green views.

Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours

Difficulty Level: Moderate