Chennaiites explore nearby picnic spots for short vacations

City-based popular camping experiences curators, Exoticamp, has been offering safe camping options after the pandemic. Sam Suresh, the co-founder of Exoticamp, says, “People were tired sitting at home for the past many months and were desperately waiting to step out. Soon after the government announced relaxations on tourism, many approached us enquiring about our camping options. The trend that we are observing is far more encouraging than what we had anticipated it to be. Instead of travelling too far, city residents are now looking for locations closer to their homes. They are opting accessible safe picnic spots near Chennai.”

Exoticamp offers multiple campsites closer to Chennai that are suitable for families. “Most people are looking for safer options and so we started offering campsites exclusively for families. Since children are also travelling with them, they are being extra careful. A lot of travel enthusiasts prefer outdoor activities because the risk is minimum. The maximum number of people allowed in our camps is 20. Apart from that, we also have exclusive camps for families of 7-8 members. In this, we will be offering the entire campsite to the family and there will not be any other guests,” he adds.

The three most popular campsites people are opting after the pandemic are Kollidam, Arambakkam and Vedanthangal. “Around 250 km from Chennai, the campsite in Kollidam near Chidambaram is a perfect retreat for an aquaphile. The campsite is overlooking the Kollidam backwaters. It is the best place for those who are looking to learn kayaking and standup paddling from certified instructors. You can also visit the nearby beaches that are barely frequented by people. This place is excellent for stargazing as well. Another camping option is our nature campsite in Arambakkam, Tiruvallur district. Located at just 70 km from Chennai, this is a quick getaway from the city and the most popular one. The place is full lush of greenery and plenty of cycling trails. There are a mini waterfall and freshwater creek amidst nature. We also have outdoor activities like cricket, volleyball badminton, etc. The third one is our luxury camping at Vedanthangal. The response has been amazing so far and we have been getting a lot of bookings during the weekdays as well. Since most of the people are working from home, it helps them to step out and enjoy nature. We are following all the safety protocols,” Sam explains.

For Preejo TJ, a behavioural trainer from the city, travelling is something that he cannot live without. “I love to trek and explore new places. During the initial days of the lockdown, I was wondering what to do. So, I took my cycle and rode along the beaches in ECR, Mahabalipuram and Puducherry. When they announced relaxations, I decided to explore the hills in and around Chennai — you can find a lot of beautiful hills in Perumbakkam, Perungalathur, Malaipattu , Malaipartu, Tirukazhukundram, Pallavaram, etc. Last week, on my way to Nagalapuram Falls, I discovered another beautiful fall called Saddhi Koodu Madugu Falls. I never knew there so many unexplored hills in and around Chennai. There is a different feeling in exploring our city with friends,” says Preejo.

One important advice Preejo gives to travel enthusiasts is being responsible while venturing out. “Certain hills and lakes are so beautiful and yet to be explored. So, if you are planning to travel to such places make sure that you don’t litter the place. Like how you take care of your health, you need to be conscious of nature as well,” he adds.