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Photo: Netvadi, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Popular among bird watchers and is home to about 85 species of birds.
Nanmangalam Reserve Forest is a protected forest located in Chengalpattu district, about 24 km from the city centre. It is located at Medavakkam on Velachery High Road between Velachery and Tambaram. The reserve forest has an area of 320 hectares. However, the total area of the forest is 2,400 hectares.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
A Shiva temple built between 956 and 973 CE during the reign of Parantaka Chola II. A number of religious festivals are celebrated at the temple, including Pradosha, Panguni Uttiram and during Navaratri, devotees visit to offer special pujas.
Pallavapuram Hill
A hilly park with walking trails, and views of the Chennai skyline.
Vandalur Zoo
Chennai has the distinction of having the first zoo in India, which was started in 1855. This park is said to be one of the biggest in South Asia. The wildlife population is exhibited in a large open-moated island enclosure with a simulated natural environment. More than 170 species of mammals, birds and reptiles are housed in this park. Lion safari vehicles, elephant rides, battery operated vehicles are some of the facilities available. The peak time is during Pongal and weekend holidays.