Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a quaint hill station located in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains, tea plantations, pine forests, and serene valleys. The higher altitude makes it a perfect place for adventure activities like trekking, camping, and mountain biking. You can trek to the Doddabetta Peak, the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Hills, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area. You can also visit the Avalanche Lake, where you can go boating and fishing. The Pine Forests are an ideal location for a leisurely walk and offer many photo opportunities. For a cultural experience, visit the Botanical Garden or the Wax World Museum.
Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beach town located south of Chennai in Tamil Nadu. The town is known for its ancient stone temples, rock-cut caves, and exquisite sculptures. The Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit temple in Mahabalipuram. The temple is located on the edge of the Bay of Bengal, and the view from the temple is mesmerizing. You can also visit the Pancha Rathas, five stone temples, each carved out of a single rock. The temples have intricate carvings and are a wonder to see. Apart from the temples, you can also indulge in water sports like surfing, swimming, and windsurfing at the Mahabalipuram beach.
If you have more time, you can visit the Mudumalai National Park in Ooty and go on a wildlife safari. In Mahabalipuram, you can visit the Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum which showcases the art, architecture, and lifestyle of South India. You can subtract the water sports activities if you prefer to explore the temples or add a day at Chennai to visit its famous landmarks like the Fort St. George, Marina Beach, and Santhome Cathedral Basilica.