Places to Visit Near Chennai in May To Beat the Summer Heat

It won’t be a brainer if we say that Tamil Nadu’s capital, Chennai, is a coastal town that gets hot in the summers, particularly in May and June. During May month, the mercury soars gradually, and locals and tourists alike started feeling the summer’s swelter.

Apart from your air-conditioned accommodations, cars, and malls visit, the only way to surpass the blistering hot summers in May in Chennai is to escape to the places to visit near Chennai in May that have a pleasant climate. If you are also looking to get a touch of a soothing climate in May around Chennai, you need to expand your knowledge.

You need to cool off your body and mind by traveling to the best summer vacation destinations around Chennai in May. If you are reading this post, you are in a treat. We bring you the best tourist places to visit near Chennai in May, where you can ditch the scorching heat without breaking your bank.

Explore the Best Places to Visit Near Chennai in May with Family

Kishkinta Theme Park
Kanchipuram
Kailasakona Waterfalls
Yelagiri
Ubbalamadugu Falls
Yercaud
Munnar
Pondicherry
Coorg
Kolli Hills

Kishkinta Theme Park

Water Rides at Kishkinta Theme Park: Wave pools, water volcano, elephant splash
Entry Ticket: 490 INR (approx.) for children below 18 years, and 690 INR (approx.) for adults
Timings: Monday – Saturday (10:30 AM – 6:00 PM), and Sunday (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
Is it Hot in May: Not much because 14 (approx.) water rides will pause on scorching heat.
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi
Road Distance from Chennai: 36 kilometers/1.5 hours (approx.)

End your search for places to visit near Chennai in May for 1 day at Kishkinta Theme Park. This place is a perfect weekend hideout with your near and dear ones. Located within a quick reachable distance from Chennai, a visit to this theme park will reward your family, including adults and kids, with wonderful experiences.

Choose from the multitude of water rides to fix your thirst for water sports in summers. Kishkinta Theme Park is sprawled over 120 acres (approx.) and enveloped with immaculate greenery. You will have a good time in this theme park near Chennai in May, so make sure to visit Kishkinta Theme Park.

Kanchipuram

Is it Hot in May: No! Kanchipuram temperature hovers around 21°C-37°C (approx.) and doesn’t cause an obstacle for day sightseeing due to suppressive heat.
Days Enough to Visit: 1-2 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 77 kilometers (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi
Top Places to Visit: Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, Tiru Parameswara Vinnagaram

Kanchipuram is drenched in spirituality and art both. It is a famous hand weaved silk sarees hub of India where inhabitants are in the weaving business for decades. If you are looking for a place to visit near Chennai in May with family, think of visiting Kanchipuram.

Here, the ladies in your family will find authentic hand-woven silk sarees for their wardrobes. In fact, you will be learning about the locals’ knowledge of silk weaving because most of the inhabitants in Kanchipuram have belonged to the weaving industry for centuries.

Kanchipuram is also called the temple city around Chennai because there are 15 (approx.) Lord Vishnu Temples out of 108 are present in Kanchipuram. If you are a native Hindu, this religious site is sprinkled with dozens of Hindu temples that you must visit.

Things to Do in Kanchipuram

Admire the Dravidian architecture of Jain Temple
Learn about the heritage of Kanchipuram at Kanchi Kudil Museum
Buy a yellow or pink Kanchipuram silk saree for your mother or sweetheart

[ Opt for our tastefully crafted Kanchipuram tour packages here. ]

Kailasakona Waterfalls

Is it Hot in May: No! In fact, the water is cold and refreshing to beat the suppressive heat.
Days Enough to Visit: 1-2 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 95 kilometers (approx.)
Opening Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi

End your search for the top places to visit near Chennai in May with friends at Kailasakona Waterfalls. There are brilliant rock formations, and you will see the water cascading from a height of 40 ft (approx.) and creating a natural pool.

If you are looking for a 1-day weekend getaway near Chennai in May, Kailasakona Waterfalls provides a trekking option! Plus, there is a Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati Temple near the falls where you can seek spiritual enlightenment. The waterfall is known to have healing properties due to rich mineral formations.

Also Read: Places to Visit near Chennai in April

Advice to Follow When You Are at Kailasakona Waterfalls

Avoid using plastics and synthetic materials like soap, and shampoo
Beware of monkeys

Yelagiri

Is it Hot in May: No! Owing to its elevation of 3645 ft (approx.), it never gets too hot in Yelagiri.
Days Enough to Visit:1-2 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 230 kilometers/5 hours (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi, and train
Top Places to Visit: Swamimalai Hills, Yelagiri Natural Park, Velavan Temple

Take a break from the fast-paced city life of Chennai for Yelagiri vacations in May with your kids. There are plenty of experiences to indulge in Yelagiri for both adults and kids. Particularly in May, you can attend the famous summer festival organized by the Yelagiri Tourism Department Board annually.

Whether you love outdoor adventure trekking trails or temple hopping trips, Yelagiri hill station near Chennai got you covered with everything. The best thing about Yelagiri is it remains less crowded in May. If you are a couple, Yelagiri has plenty of romantic resorts under its belts where you can romance in the glory of nature.

Things to Do in Yelagiri

Witness celestial bodies at Telescope Observatory
Enjoy motorboat and paddle boat ride in Nilavoor Lake
Get rid of skin ailments by bathing at Jalagamparai Waterfalls
Seek blessings from Lord Muruga at Murugan Temple
Camp at the Yelagiri Forest Hill

Related Reads: Things to Do in Chennai

Ubbalamadugu Falls

Is it Hot in May: Not much. The heat will be bearable as there are several streams available that will give you respite from the blistering heat.
Days Enough to Visit: 1-2 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 95 kilometers (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi
Top Nearby Places to Visit: Pulicat Lake, Shiva Temple

Do you have an appetite for trekking? If yes, visit Ubbalamadugu Falls, one of the best places to visit near Chennai in May for 1 day. Also called the Tada Falls, you can embark on a trekking trail as this place is enveloped with views of the hills, lush valley, and mist weather even in May. There is a parking facility available at the base camp.

Further Reading: Places to Visit Near Chennai on 3 Days Trip

Once you reach, the trek is around 10 kilometers (approx.), allowing you to admire the magnificent piece of nature. Mythologically, Ubbalamadugu Falls is considered sacred due to its link with Lord Shiva.

The waterfall is crystal clear to bathe and swim. If you are looking for a picnic spot near Chennai in May within 100 kilometers (approx.), this is the place to consider.

Advice to Follow When You Are at Ubbalamadugu Falls

Wear comfortable trekking shoes to avoid slipping on the rock
The trek is a little challenging so avoid bringing kids or senior citizens

Yercaud

Is it Hot in May: Not much. This hill station is undeniably tropical even in extreme summers like May and June due to its 1623 m (approx.) elevation.
Days Enough to Visit: 2-3 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 362 kilometers/7 hours (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi, and train
Top Places to Visit: Bears Cave, Sri Raja Rajeswari Temple, Mont Fort School

You definitely deserve a summer break in Yercaud, as it is one of the least explored hill stations near Chennai. Strategically perched on the Eastern Ghats in Shevaroy Hill, this hill resort town is brimmed in greenery, and May is the best time to take advantage of it.

Weather remains tropical, and hilltops are covered with fog, making Yercaud one of the best camping sites near Chennai for summer weekend getaways. Yercaud is famous for its coffee plantations and Orange productions, and for budget-friendly tourists, Yercaud is often labeled as “Poor man Ooty” as the cost of tourism is affordable.

Founded in the 19th century by the Britishers, Yercaud has many vantage points were gazing at the valley’s panoramic views is one of the best things to do.

Recommended Reads: Exploring Tamil Nadu in March

Things to Do in Yercaud

Enjoy boating in Yercaud Lake to admire lush green surroundings
Pass through agricultural plantations of Yercaud via 32 km Loop Road
Stroll at the Kottachedu Teak Forest to see flora, fauna, and avifauna
Bathe in the crystal clear waters of Kiliyur Waterfall for a relaxing experience
Visit Lady’s Seat – it was used to be the favorite recreational spot for British females

Munnar

Is it Hot in May: Not much. The various shades of emerald greenery and blanket of mist make air cooler even in May. The average maximum temperature in Munnar in May would be around 30°C (approx.).
Days Enough to Visit: 4-5 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 587 kilometers/12 hours (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi, flight, and train
Top Places to Visit: Eravikulam National Park, Attukad Waterfalls, Top Station
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, 110 kilometers/3.5 hours (approx.)
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station, 109 kilometers/3 hours (approx.)

Munnar is the pride of Kerala tourism and is aptly called “Kashmir of South India” for good reasons. If you are looking to unleash your summer vacations without getting sweat around the tourist places near Chennai in May, the drape of endless green carpets in Munnar awaits you!

There are tea garden hills; resorts tucked in the center of lush plantations, waterfalls, and easy to difficult trekking trails for family tourists, honeymooners, or backpackers. You could take a bike trip to Munnar from Chennai with your friends and explore the several vantage points and national parks as well.

Several Bollywood movies are filmed in Munnar, and its greenery is unbeatable. Munnar is a must-visit place in summers to beat the summer heat while unwinding peacefully in nature.

Continue Exploring: Offbeat Destinations in Tamil Nadu

Things to Do in Munnar

Unlock panoramic views of the Western Ghats at Top Station
Surround yourself with the low lying clouds at Pothamedu View Point
Take back freshly grown packet of teas from Tata Tea Museum
Get a glimpse of rare Nilgiri Tahr in Eravikulam National Park
Rejoice mountain biking activity at Suryanelli

[Plan your Budget Trip with our Customized Munnar Tour Packages]

Pondicherry

Is it Hot in May: Not that much! The French vibes, watersports, and beaches will provide stimulating respite from blazing sun and heat.
Days Enough to Visit: 3-4 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 151 kilometers/3 hours (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi
Top Places to Visit: Promenade Beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Bharathi Park

Imagine what it feels like to explore French colonies without visiting France. You can make this imagination a reality by visiting Pondicherry.

India’s Own French Town has plenty of French-style cafes, shops, and houses that will amp up your Instagram game if you are a blogger.

The nightlife in Pondicherry will seize your heart with amazement as there are many beaches where you can attend beach parties packed with lip-smacking food and mocktails or cocktails. In this Union Territory of India, the majority of locals speak French and understand English as well.

You would be experiencing culture shock in Pondicherry’s beaches, ashrams, luxury resorts, and restaurants or cafes. Weather in May will not cause hindrance in sightseeing around the beachside activities, including watersports.

Things to Do in Pondicherry

Get away from the scorching heat by swimming, surfing, and snorkeling
Behold the magical sunrise at Serenity Beach, and Paradise Beach
Revitalize your mind with a pampering spa treatment
Transform your mind and body by practicing yoga in Aurobindo Ashram
Relish the authentic French food with a combination of South Indian spices

Coorg

Is it Hot in May: Not that much! You will get relief from intense heat as steep mountain ranges, the expanse of coffee plantations, and lush green forests and valleys.
Days Enough to Visit: 1-2 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 620 kilometers/12 hours (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus or private/shared taxi
Top Places to Visit: Madikeri Fort, Raja’s Seat, Mercara Gold Estate Coffee Plantation
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport, 145 kilometers/3.5 hours (approx.)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction, 116 kilometers/2.5 hours (approx.)

Isn’t the idea of summer holidays in destinations that are wrapped with greenery a great idea? Coorg is yet another tourist attraction to visit near Chennai in June that will fill your heart with excitement—touted as the “Scotland of India” because it has ravishing greenery, gushing waterfalls, and enchanting forts and palaces dating back to the colonial era.

Coorg is much greener in terms of greenery, making it a major hit amongst the family tourists and honeymooners in summers. The presence of pristine lakes, thrilling wildlife, and uplifting spiritual places will make your summer vacations in Coorg a breezing experience.

If you are looking for a revitalizing experience from urban life, Coorg is the place to go in May near Chennai.

Further Reading: Must Visit Places in Coorg

Things to Do in Coorg

Visit the Elephant Camp in Dubare to feed and bathe the elephants
Introduce yourself to the Tibetan culture at Golden Temple
Click the photo of the milky Abbey Falls
Stroll hand in hand in the coffee plantations of Coorg for unleashing romance
Count the stars at night on overnight camping at the lake or riverside

Tourist Attractions to Visit in Coorg in 2 Days

Kolli Hills

Is it Hot in May: Not that much! The Hills is situated at an elevation of 1000 m – 1300 m (approx.), which is enough to boost the tropical climate.
Days Enough to Visit: 1-2 days (approx.)
Road Distance from Chennai: 360 kilometers/7 hours (approx.)
Best and Quick Mode of Transport: State bus, private/shared taxi, train, and flight
Top Nearby Places to Visit: Salem, Madurai, Puliancholai
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport, 116 kilometers/3 hours (approx.)
Nearest Railway Station: Salem Railway Station, 60 kilometers/1.5 hours (approx.)

Kolli Hills is one of the peaceful hill stations near Chennai within 400 kilometers and wrapped with lush greenery. You should visit Kolli Hills in May because it is an offbeat tourist attraction and undisturbed by industrialization and commercialization.

There are tea and coffee plantations to venture on your visit. Kolli Hill is a paradise for mountain biking lovers as there are around 70 hairpin bends for thrill-seekers.

If you are into photography and want to capture the changing hues of sunset and sunrise, don’t miss a visit to Kolli Hills near Chennai in May. In this hill resort town, pristine waterfalls, century-old temples, and picturesque vantage points are abundant.

Further Reading: Waterfalls in Tamil Nadu

Things to Do in Kolli Hills

Witness a great Dravidian style architecture at Arapaleeswarar Temple
Go on a guided tour to Tampcol Medicinal Farm to learn about medicinal plants
Trek to Agaya Gangai Waterfalls
Enjoy boating at the Vasalurpatty Boathouse with your near or dear ones

Why Go For Holidays Near Chennai in May?

To break away, the misconception that holidays around Chennai is not possible in summers. When you decide to go for holidays near Chennai in May , you will learn that Chennaikars have many options to get rid of punishable summers in May month. The air-conditioned rooms and cars are not the only way to stay cool during summers in Chennai.

In fact, you will be surprised to know that there are plenty of ideal retreats for escaping summers around Chennai in May.

Crisp mountain air to breathe is the option; watching sunlight dance through the acres of lush greenery around coffee plantations of hill stations near Chennai is a pampering experience.

Continue Exploring: Historical Monuments in Chennai

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy reading about Chennai’s nearby tourist places in May. We have curated this because tourists or locals think there are hardly any places to get rid of summers near Tamil Nadu’s Capital town, Chennai. Let us know what you think about kicking a weekend getaway near Chennai in May!

If you could explore the 5 top places to visit near Chennai in May with your family, what would they be?

Faqs About Visiting Places to Visit Near Chennai in May

Q. What are the best tourist places near Chennai within 100 kilometers?
Ans: Nagalapuram, Mahabalipuram, Pulikat, and Kanchipuram are the best tourists places near Chennai within 100 kilometers

Q. What are some temples near Chennai Central Railway Station?
Ans: Sri Selva Vinayakar Temple, Nathu Selva Vinayakar, and Arulmigu Sri Ellaiamman Temple are the must-visit temples near Chennai Central Railway Station.

Q. Are there any romantic places to visit near Chennai in May?
Ans: Yes! There are many romantic places to visit near Chennai in May; some include Kodaikanal, Ooty, Mysore, and Munnar.

Q. Which hill station is near to Chennai and best for family holidays in May?
Ans: Munnar, Horsley Hills, and Yercaud hill stations are near Chennai and considered best for family holidays in May.

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Akshay Negi

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