Adventure in Chennai, Tamil Nadu!

Little Mount & St Thomas Mount (Chinnamalai & Parangi Malai)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enthralling journey through the sacred and adventurous landscapes of Little Mount (Chinnamalai) and St. Thomas Mount (Parangi Malai) in Chennai, India. This itinerary promises to blend spiritual heritage with adventurous escapades.

Morning - Little Mount (Chinnamalai)

Begin your adventure early in the morning to avoid the heat of Chennai. To reach Little Mount, take the metro to Saidapet Station and from there, a short auto-rickshaw ride will get you to the site. As you explore, marvel at the ancient cave where St. Thomas, the apostle who brought Christianity to India, is believed to have lived and prayed. Don"t miss the miraculous opening in the cave known as the ‘escape window,’ through which St. Thomas is said to have fled from his assailants. For adventure seekers, the rugged terrain around the cave offers a challenging climb. Additionally, there’s a small pond which, legend holds, was created by St. Thomas himself.

Midday - Lunch Break

Refresh yourself with a hearty South Indian lunch at a local eatery. Try the traditional "dosas" or "thali", which features a variety of dishes.

Afternoon - St. Thomas Mount (Parangi Malai)

Post-lunch, take a bus or an auto-rickshaw from Little Mount to St. Thomas Mount, located approximately 3 km away. Prepare for a bit of a climb up the 160 stone steps leading to the mount. Your effort will be rewarded with panoramic views of Chennai city and the Bay of Bengal. The mount is crowned with a picturesque church, believed to be one of the oldest in India, marking the final resting place of St. Thomas.

Evening - Reflect and Relax

As the sun sets, spend some tranquil moments at the peak reflecting on the day"s explorations. When ready, head back to the city, easily accessible by bus or taxi.

This adventure not only challenges the body but also enriches the spirit, making it a must-do for every adventure lover visiting Chennai.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Marina Beach

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Marina Beach, Chennai

Day 1: Arrive in Chennai

Fly into Chennai International Airport, and take a pre-booked taxi or an Ola/Uber to your hotel near Marina Beach. Settle in and enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the beach, stretching 13 kilometers and known as the longest natural urban beach in India. As the sun sets, indulge in some local street food, like "sundal" (spicy boiled chickpeas) sold by beachside vendors.

Day 2: Kite Surfing and Beach Trek

Start your morning with an adrenaline-pumping session of kite surfing. The vast expanse of Marina Beach offers perfect wind conditions for this thrilling sport. Beginners can take short lessons available at the beachfront. Post surfing, grab a quick bite of "murukku" a crunchy snack, and prepare for a beach trek. Walk north to explore the historic landmarks lining the shore, including the iconic statues of Tamil scholars and the majestic Madras University building.

Day 3: Cycling and Local Exploration

Rent a bicycle from service providers near the lighthouse located at the southern end of the beach. Cycle along the promenade to appreciate the vibrant local scene and colonial buildings in the morning light. Continue your journey to explore Fort St. George, about 3 kilometers away, a colonial fort with a museum showcasing Chennai"s origins.

Day 4: Fishing and Sailing Experience

Join local fishermen early in the morning for a hands-on fishing experience. Learn traditional fishing techniques and later, charter a sailboat from the Chennai Yacht Club for a sailing adventure along the coast, offering a unique perspective of the bustling city from the tranquil waters.

Day 5: Departure

Enjoy one last walk along the misty shores of Marina at sunrise. Reflect on the adventures of the past days before checking out from your hotel and heading back to the airport.

Interesting Fact: Marina Beach is not just a hub of activity; it"s also an ecological hotspot, serving as a nesting ground for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles during the breeding season.

This itinerary promises a blend of exhilarate activities and local culture, ensuring that adventure lovers take home unforgettable memories from Marina Beach.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Armenian Church

Why Visit?

Welcome to the hidden gem of the Middle East, the Armenian Church, a beacon of historical and spiritual adventure. Nestled in the heart of Armenian culture, this ancient sanctuary offers a journey through time and faith that is both enlightening and exhilarating.

Morning Exploration: Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, Yerevan

Begin your adventure in Yerevan, at the majestic Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, the largest Armenian church in the world. Easily accessible by metro or taxi from anywhere in the city, the cathedral stands as a modern monument built to celebrate 1700 years of Christianity in Armenia. Join the morning liturgy to experience the soul-stirring sounds of the divine liturgy in a monumental setting.

Midday Journey: Khor Virap

Post-breakfast, a short drive through the picturesque Armenian countryside will lead you to Khor Virap, the most sacred site in Armenia. Located near the closed border with Turkey and directly in the shadow of the dormant biblical mountain, Mount Ararat, Khor Virap"s location is as dramatic as its history. Here, Saint Gregory was imprisoned for 13 years before curing King Trdat III of a disease, leading to the conversion of the king and Armenia into the first Christian nation in 301 AD. The climb down into the pit where Gregory was imprisoned is not for the faint-hearted but offers an unparalleled glimpse into the saint’s perseverance.

Afternoon Adventure: Geghard Monastery

A 40-minute drive from Khor Virap will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geghard Monastery. Carved partially out of a mountain, surrounded by cliffs, the complex is renowned for its incredible acoustics inside the rock-cut churches and chapels. An ideal spot for adventure lovers, the surrounding cliffs and trails offer ample hiking opportunities, with stunning views and the chance to discover hidden nooks and spiritual solitude.

Wrap up your day with these profound visits, each site weaving together the threads of faith, history, and adventure in the fabric of Armenia.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Luz Church (Shrine of Our Lady of Light)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enthralling journey to the historic Luz Church, officially known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Light, nestled in the bustling city of Chennai, India. This remarkable landmark, laden with centuries of history, promises a captivating experience for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Morning Exploration: Luz Church

Start your day early to avoid the heat and the crowd. Luz Church, easily accessible by the Chennai MRTS, is closest to the Thirumayliai station, just a short auto-rickshaw ride away. Built in 1516 by Portuguese sailors, the church stands as one of the oldest European monuments in India. The architecture showcases a blend of traditional Tamil Christian and Portuguese design, offering a visual treat and a serene ambiance.

Interactive Walkthrough

Upon arrival, join a guided tour that delves deep into the church’s rich history. Learn about its survival through centuries and its role in the local Christian community. The high ceilings, stained glass, and intricately designed altars provide perfect photographic opportunities.

Afternoon Delight: Mylapore Exploration

Post your church visit, head to the nearby Mylapore neighborhood, a cultural hub that offers a stark contrast with its vibrant temples and bustling markets. Enjoy a traditional Tamil lunch at one of Mylapore’s local eateries, relishing dishes like dosa and sambar.

Evening Leisure: Marina Beach

Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along Marina Beach, just a few kilometers from Mylapore. As the sun sets, the beach becomes a lively spot with local vendors and performers. It’s a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Adventure Tip

For the spirited adventurer, renting a bicycle to navigate between these sites provides not just convenience but also an immersive way to experience Chennai’s dynamic streets and local life.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits at Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Nestled on the outskirts of Chennai, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, commonly known as Vandalur Zoo, promises an exhilarating day amidst wildlife and lush greenery. Spread over a sprawling 602 hectares, it is the largest zoological garden in India and a haven for adventure and animal lovers alike.

Getting There

To start your adventure, catch a local train from Chennai to Vandalur Railway Station, which is conveniently located just 1 km away from the zoo. Alternatively, drive down the NH45, which provides a scenic route to the park"s entrance. For those who prefer public transport, numerous buses ply to Vandalur from various parts of the city.

Embark on Your Adventure

Begin your day early to make the most of it. The zoo opens at 9 AM, but arriving earlier helps beat the crowd and the heat. After entering, rent a bicycle near the entrance for an invigorating ride through the park’s well-paved paths, perfect for catching glimpses of animals waking in the cool morning air.

Wild Encounters

Home to over 2,500 species of flora and fauna, embrace the chance to spot rare animals like the White Tiger, Bengal Tiger, and the Indian Leopard. Don"t miss the captivating Lion Safari, which guarantees an up-close encounter with the majestic beasts in a secure vehicle.

Engage and Learn

For the curious minds, the zoo offers a range of educational sessions throughout the day. Join one of the guided wildlife tours or attend a keeper talk to learn fascinating facts about the species you see.

Unwind Amidst Nature

After an action-packed day, relax by the zoo"s serene butterfly park or picnic areas while relishing local snacks from nearby stalls. Make sure to pack a camera, binoculars, and a hat to fully enjoy and capture every moment of your adventure at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.