Living in Chennai is always exciting and full of opportunities to explore. The city strives to provide its residents with the best it has to offer and helps alleviate their stress by offering amazing places to visit. We understand how it feels to live in OMR. If you're living in OMR, chances are you're there for work and feeling burnt out after a long week is completely normal. But can staying indoors help you relax? Maybe to some extent, but we assure you that having a mini picnic around the neighborhood will rejuvenate your mental health.

You might wonder is there a place to relax in and around OMR except for IT parks? There's actually a lot more to this area than you may think. Apart from being a hub for business, OMR offers a range of attractions that cater to different interests. Read this blog to know about the places.

1. Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)

Elliot's Beach, affectionately known as Bessi and situated in Besant Nagar is a peaceful seaside getaway famous for its pristine shores and calm atmosphere. Unlike the crowded Marina Beach, Elliot's provides a quiet setting, perfect for unwinding. Major attractions at the beach include the Annai Vailankanni Church, a Roman Catholic place of worship that draws pilgrims, and the Ashtalakshmi Temple, devoted to the eight manifestations of Goddess Lakshmi.

Location : Besant Nagar

Timing : Open 24 hours

Established in : 1976

Landmarks : Kaj Schmidt Memorial, The Ashtalakshmi temple, Annai Velankanni Shrine

2. VGP Universal Kingdom

For a day of fun and excitement, head to VGP Universal Kingdom. This amusement park on East Coast Road (ECR), close to OMR, offers thrilling rides, a water park, and various entertainment options for all age groups. The VGP 2000 Millennium Tower and the VGP Snow Kingdom are highlights of this destination.

Location : Injambakkam

Address : SH 49, Injambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600115

Established in : 1997

Timing : 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

Phone Number : +91 8939700588

Website : www.vgpuniversalkingdom.in

Entry Fees : Adult for 775 Rs and Children for 595 Rs

3. DakshinaChitra

Located on ECR, DakshinaChitra is a heritage museum showcasing the art, architecture, lifestyles, crafts, and performing arts of South India. It’s a cultural haven that offers a glimpse into the rich traditions of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Interactive workshops and live performances make it an engaging experience.

Location : Muttukadu

Address : DakshinaChitra Museum, East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Kanchipuram District Pin : 603 112

Established in : 1996

Phone Number : 9841020149

Email Id : dakmcf@gmail.com

Timing : 10am to 6pm (Tuesday Closed)

Website : www.dakshinachitra.net

Entry Fees : Adult for 120 Rs and Student for 50 Rs

4. Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)

Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic port city renowned for its magnificent rock-cut temples and sculptures. It is one of the famous tourist sites in India.Situated around 60 kilometers away from Chennai, this destination highlights the grandeur of the Pallava dynasty through attractions like the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and the Five Rathas. Additionally, visitors can explore other significant sites such as Varaha Cave and Krishna’s Butter Ball. The town’s tranquil beaches, lively handicraft markets, and the annual Mahabalipuram Dance Festival offer a delightful combination of history, art, and culture. This picturesque coastal town provides a mesmerizing peek into India’s rich heritage and enduring allure.

Location : Mahabalipuram

Timing : 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

5. Muttukadu Lake

This picturesque backwater area offers boating and water sports activities. Located on ECR, near OMR, Muttukadu Lake is perfect for a family outing or a relaxing day amidst nature. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) offers boat rides that provide a unique perspective of the lake's beauty.

Location : Muttukadu

Address : SH 49, Muttukadu, Tamil Nadu 603103

Timing : 9 am to 6 pm

6. Covelong Beach (Kovalam)

Situated on ECR, Covelong Beach is renowned for its serene beauty and adventure sports. It’s a favorite spot for surfers and offers various water sports like windsurfing and parasailing. The Covelong Point Surf School and the annual Covelong Point Surf, Music & Yoga Festival are major attractions.

Location : Covelong Beach

Address : Covelong, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603112, India

Timing : Open 24 hours

7. Cholamandal Artists’ Village

Founded in 1966, Cholamandal Artists’ Village is India’s largest self-supporting artists’ commune. Located near Injambakkam on ECR, it is home to several renowned artists and sculptors. The village features galleries, an open-air theater, and a museum, offering a rich cultural experience for art enthusiasts.

Location : Injambakkam

Address : Cholamandal Artists’ Village Injambakkam Chennai - 600 041 India

Timing : 9:30 am to 6:30 pm

Website : www.cholamandalartistvillage.com

Entry Fees : Adult for 30 Rs and Student for 10 Rs

8. Iskcon Temple

Situated in Sholinganallur, the ISKCON Temple is a serene and spiritual place dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple’s architecture is stunning, and the peaceful environment provides a perfect setting for meditation and prayer. The temple also hosts various cultural and spiritual events throughout the year.

Location : Sholinganallur

Address : ISKON TEMPLE, Bhakti Vedanta Swami Rd, Akkarai, Sholinganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600119

Timing : 7:30 am – 1 pm, 4 pm – 9:15 pm

Website : www.iskconchennai.org

Special Poojas : Mangala arati (morning) Dhoop Arati (Mid-day) Tulasi Puja (Evening) and Shayana Arati (late Night)

Built in : 2012

Built by : International Society for Krishna Consciousness

Nearby Temples : Shirdi Sai Mandir/Sri Selva Vinayagar Temple/Sri Devi Bathrakali Amman Kovil/Thulukanathamman Temple/Sri Sankaranarayanar Temple/Sri Angala Parameswari Temple

Festival Seasons : Janmastami, Rath Yatra

9. Mayajaal

Mayajaal is one of the largest entertainment complexes in Chennai, offering a multiplex cinema, shopping, dining, and gaming options. Located on ECR, near OMR, it’s an ideal destination for a day of leisure and entertainment.

Location : Kanathur

Address : Mayajaal Entertainment Private Limited #34 East Coast Road Kanathur, Chennai, TamilNadu : 603112 India

Timing : 11:30 am to 11:30 pm

Website : www.mayajaal.com

10. The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology

Founded by Romulus Whitaker, this reptile zoo and herpetology research station is home to various species of crocodiles, alligators, turtles, and snakes. Located on ECR, it’s an educational and fascinating visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Location : Mahabalipuram

Address : Post Bag No 4, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104

Established in : 1976

Timing : 9 am to 5 pm (Closed on Monday)

Website : www.madrascrocodilebank.org

Entry Fees : Adult for 100 Rs and Children for 50 Rs

11. ECR Beach Resorts

The stretch of ECR near OMR is dotted with luxurious beach resorts that offer a perfect getaway from the city's hustle and bustle. These resorts provide excellent amenities, private beach access, and various recreational activities, making them ideal for a weekend retreat.

Conclusion

OMR and its surrounding areas offer a rich and variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests. From breezy beaches and cultural landmarks to amusement parks and heritage sites, there is everything for you make the most of it. These must-visit places around OMR promise an enriching and enjoyable experience. So, pack your bags and plan your mini picnic this weekend and use this chance to explore the dynamic charm of this remarkable region.