MUTTUKADU
Are you tired of the same old touristy destinations? Want to explore something offbeat and unique? Look no further than Muttukadu! This hidden gem is a small village located on the East Coast Road in Tamil Nadu, India.
Muttukadu is not your typical tourist hotspot. It's a quaint little village that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. But don't be fooled by its small size, there's plenty to see and do here.
From boating in the backwaters to visiting the nearby DakshinaChitra Museum, Muttukadu has something for everyone. And let's not forget about the delicious seafood! The local cuisine is a must-try for all foodies out there.
But what really makes Muttukadu stand out is the people. The locals are friendly, welcoming, and always up for a good laugh. You'll feel right at home as soon as you step foot in this charming village.
So why not plan your next trip to Muttukadu? It's a hidden gem that's definitely worth exploring. And who knows, you might just discover something new and exciting that you never knew existed before!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Muttukadu
- How to Reach and getting around Muttukadu
- Weather of Muttukadu
- Places to Visit in Muttukadu
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Muttukadu
- Best areas for Accommodation in Muttukadu
- Shopping in Muttukadu
- Nightlife in Muttukadu
- Festivals and Events in Muttukadu
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Muttukadu
- FAQs
History and Culture of Muttukadu
Muttukadu is a small village located on the outskirts of Chennai, India. Its history dates back to the ancient times when it was ruled by Chola Kings. Legend has it that the village got its name from a local fisherman who caught a giant fish and exclaimed "Muttu Kadu!" which means "Pearl Forest" in Tamil.
The village is famous for its backwaters and boating activities. Tourists flock to Muttukadu to enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters and indulge in water sports like jet skiing and water surfing.
The culture of Muttukadu is deeply rooted in fishing. The villagers have been fishermen for generations and fishing remains their primary source of income. The village also has a rich tradition of folk music and dance. The villagers perform these art forms during festivals and celebrations.
One interesting aspect of Muttukadu's culture is the belief in supernatural powers. The villagers believe that there are evil spirits that reside in some parts of the backwaters. To ward off these spirits, they perform rituals involving offerings to the gods.
Another notable aspect of Muttukadu's culture is its cuisine. The village is known for its delicious seafood dishes like crab masala, prawn fry, and fish curry. Every household has its own unique recipe for these dishes, passed down from one generation to another.
In conclusion, Muttukadu may be a small village, but it has a rich history and culture that makes it worth visiting. From boating in the backwaters to indulging in delicious seafood, there's something for everyone here!
How to Reach and getting around Muttukadu
Muttukadu is a popular tourist destination located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is a serene place with a beautiful backwater lake and offers various recreational activities such as boating, kayaking, and windsurfing. If you are planning to visit Muttukadu, here are some options on how to reach there.
By Air: The nearest airport to Muttukadu is the Chennai International Airport, which is approximately 20 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Muttukadu.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Muttukadu is Chennai Central Railway Station, which is located at a distance of about 25 km. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Muttukadu.
By Bus: Muttukadu has good connectivity by road and can be easily reached by bus. You can take a bus from Chennai or nearby cities like Pondicherry, Mahabalipuram, and Kanchipuram.
By Car: If you prefer traveling by car, you can rent one from Chennai and drive down to Muttukadu. It takes about an hour to reach there from Chennai.
By Bike: Another option for adventure lovers is renting a bike in Chennai and riding down to Muttukadu. It offers a scenic route with beautiful views of the coastline.
In conclusion, reaching Muttukadu is not difficult as it has good connectivity by air, train, bus, car or bike. So plan your trip soon and enjoy the beauty of this serene place.
Weather of Muttukadu
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantMuttukadu is a coastal town located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The climate of Muttukadu is tropical, which means it has hot and humid summers and mild winters. The temperature during the summer months of March to May can reach up to 40°C. The monsoon season begins in June and lasts until September, bringing heavy rainfall to the region.
The best time to visit Muttukadu is between October and February when the weather is pleasant with an average temperature of around 25°C. During this time, one can enjoy various outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and water sports in the backwaters of Muttukadu. The sea breeze during this time makes it more enjoyable for tourists.
The winter season in Muttukadu lasts from December to February, which makes it an ideal time for beach vacations. The temperature during these months ranges from 20-25°C with a cool breeze at night. It's an excellent opportunity to explore the nearby attractions like Mahabalipuram temples and Dakshina Chitra museum while enjoying the pleasant weather.
In conclusion, if you're planning a trip to Muttukadu, the best time to visit would be between October and February when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and beach vacations. Make sure to pack your bags accordingly as per the weather forecast before heading out on your trip.
Places to Visit in Muttukadu
Muttukadu Boat House - A popular tourist spot offering boating services on the backwaters of the Bay of Bengal. Visitors can enjoy pedal boating, row boating, and speed boating while enjoying the scenic beauty of the place.
Dakshinachitra - A cultural museum that showcases the art, architecture, and lifestyle of South India. The museum has a collection of traditional homes, handicrafts, and cultural artifacts from various states in South India.
MGM Dizzee World - An amusement park with a variety of rides and attractions for all age groups. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides like roller coasters, water rides, go-karting, and many more.
Crocodile Bank - A reptile park that houses various species of crocodiles and other reptiles. Visitors can witness feeding sessions and learn about the breeding habits and conservation efforts taken for these animals.
Mahabalipuram - A UNESCO World Heritage site located near Muttukadu that houses ancient rock-cut temples and monuments from the Pallava dynasty. The Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance are some of the must-visit places in Mahabalipuram.
Covelong Beach - A serene beach with golden sand and clear blue waters. Visitors can indulge in water sports like surfing, kayaking or simply relax by the beachside.
Madras Crocodile Bank Trust - Another reptile park that focuses on conservation efforts for crocodiles and other endangered species of reptiles like turtles and snakes.
VGP Universal Kingdom - An amusement park with a variety of thrilling rides like roller coasters, water rides along with a snow kingdom where visitors can experience snowfall throughout the year.
Cholamandal Artists' Village - A community that houses artists from different parts of India who work together to create contemporary art forms using traditional techniques.
Kovalam Beach - Another scenic beach located near Muttukadu where visitors can indulge in water sports or simply relax by watching the sunset over the horizon.
Adventures Activities
Relaxing Retreats
Beaches
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Muttukadu
Best areas for accommodation in Muttukadu
Muttukadu, located in the southern part of Chennai, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and water sports activities. If you are planning to visit Muttukadu and looking for accommodation, then you have come to the right place. Here are the best areas for accommodation in Muttukadu:
East Coast Road (ECR): This is one of the most popular areas for accommodation in Muttukadu, as it offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. The area is home to several luxury resorts and hotels.
Mahabalipuram Road: This area is located close to the famous Mahabalipuram temple and has a range of budget-friendly options for accommodation.
Perungudi: Located close to OMR road, Perungudi is a great option if you are looking for affordable yet comfortable accommodation.
Now that we've covered the best areas for accommodation in Muttukadu let's take a look at three properties - one luxury, one budget, and one hostel.
Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort: This luxurious property offers world-class amenities like an infinity pool, spa services, and a private beach. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped with modern facilities.
Hotel Mamalla Heritage: If you are on a budget but still want a comfortable stay, then Hotel Mamalla Heritage is a great option. It offers clean rooms with all basic amenities at an affordable price.
Zostel Chennai: If you're traveling solo or on a tight budget, then Zostel Chennai is perfect for you. It's a backpacker hostel that offers shared dormitories with all basic facilities at an affordable price.
In conclusion, Muttukadu has something to offer everyone when it comes to accommodation options. Whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly options or even backpacker hostels – there's something here for you!
Shopping in Muttukadu
Muttukadu is a small town located on the outskirts of Chennai, India. It is known for its scenic beauty and the famous Muttukadu Lake. The town is also famous for its shopping markets that offer a wide range of products to choose from. In this article, we will discuss four things that you can buy, three markets to visit, and four things to avoid while shopping in Muttukadu.
Things to buy
- Handicrafts: Muttukadu is famous for its traditional handicrafts made by local artisans.
- Silk sarees: The town is known for its silk sarees that come in different designs and colors.
- Spices: You can find a variety of spices in the local markets that are fresh and of good quality.
- Seafood: As Muttukadu is located near the coast, you can get fresh seafood like fish, prawns, crab, etc.
Markets to visit
- MGR Market: This market offers a variety of products like clothes, accessories, electronics, etc., at reasonable prices.
- Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex: It is one of the largest markets in South India that deals with vegetables and fruits.
- T Nagar Market: This market is famous for its silk sarees and jewelry collection.
What to avoid
- Street vendors selling fake products
- Shops offering huge discounts as they might be selling low-quality products
- Carrying large amounts of cash while shopping
- Buying seafood from unauthorized sellers.
In conclusion, Muttukadu offers a unique shopping experience with its traditional handicrafts, silk sarees, spices and fresh seafood. Visitors should not miss out on visiting the MGR Market, Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex and T Nagar Market. However, it is important to avoid street vendors selling fake products or carrying large amounts of cash while shopping. Tourists are advised to buy seafood only from authorized sellers.
Nightlife in Muttukadu
Muttukadu, a small town located in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, is not just famous for its backwaters and water sports activities but also for its vibrant nightlife. The town's nightlife scene is a perfect combination of traditional and modern culture, which makes it an ideal destination for party-goers.
There are several places in Muttukadu where one can spend their night while enjoying various activities. Here are three places to consider:
Blaze, located on the East Coast Road (ECR), is a popular nightclub that offers a lively ambiance with great music, drinks, and food. The place hosts DJ nights on weekends and also serves as an excellent venue for private parties.
Dakshin Bar, situated inside the MGM Beach Resort, is another great option to enjoy the nightlife in Muttukadu. With its chic decor, stunning sea view, and delicious cocktails, this bar is perfect for those who want to unwind after a long day.
Mahabalipuram Beach, just 30 minutes drive away from Muttukadu, offers a serene ambiance with breathtaking views of the sea. The beach has several shacks that offer food and drinks until late at night. One can relax on the beach while sipping their favorite drink or enjoy a bonfire with friends.
In conclusion, Muttukadu has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to everyone's taste. From lively nightclubs to serene beaches, there are plenty of places where one can spend their night while enjoying various activities.
Outdoor Activities in Muttukadu
Muttukadu, a serene suburb located in Chennai, offers a plethora of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Surrounded by the Bay of Bengal on one side and Muttukadu Lake on the other, this place is a haven for those wanting to escape the hustle-bustle of city life.
Kayaking is one of the most popular activities here, with its calm waters providing an excellent opportunity for beginners to learn this water sport. The scenic beauty of the lake combined with the thrill of paddling makes it an unforgettable experience.
For those who want to explore the surrounding areas, cycling is an excellent option. The route along East Coast Road offers breathtaking views of the sea and allows you to soak in the natural beauty at your own pace.
Another exciting activity that Muttukadu offers is fishing. Surrounded by water bodies, fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching a variety of fish species here. It's also an excellent way to relax and unwind amidst nature.
Overall, Muttukadu offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for some thrilling water sports or prefer cycling amidst lush greenery or simply want to try your hand at fishing - Muttukadu has something for everyone!
Festivals and Events in Muttukadu
Festivals and events play a vital role in the culture and tradition of Muttukadu. They not only offer a glimpse into the region's rich heritage but also provide opportunities for locals and tourists to come together, celebrate, and have fun. Here are some of the popular festivals and events that take place in Muttukadu throughout the year:
Pongal (January): This is a four-day festival that marks the beginning of the harvest season. People decorate their homes with colourful rangolis, prepare traditional dishes like pongal, and offer prayers to the Sun God.
Tamil New Year (April): Also known as Puthandu, this festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across Tamil Nadu, including Muttukadu. People wear new clothes, prepare special dishes like mango pachadi, and exchange gifts.
Chithirai Festival (April/May): This is a ten-day festival that commemorates the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The highlight of this festival is the grand procession where deities are taken out on decorated chariots.
Navaratri (September/October): This nine-day festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil. People set up small altars in their homes and offer prayers to Goddess Durga.
Deepavali (October/November): Also known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. People light diyas, burst crackers, and exchange sweets.
Apart from these festivals, there are several other events that take place in Muttukadu throughout the year like music concerts, food festivals etc. These events provide an opportunity for visitors to experience local culture and traditions while having fun with friends and family.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Muttukadu
Plan ahead: Before traveling to Muttukadu, it is important to research and plan your itinerary. This will help you make the most of your time in the area and ensure that you do not miss any important festivals or events.
Pack for the weather: The weather in Muttukadu can be hot and humid, so it is important to pack clothing that is suitable for the climate. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended, as well as hats and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Respect local customs: Muttukadu is a culturally rich area with many traditions and customs. It is important to respect these customs while traveling through the region. Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites, and be mindful of local customs when interacting with residents.
Stay hydrated: With the hot climate in Muttukadu, it is important to stay hydrated throughout your travels. Be sure to carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Try local cuisine: Muttukadu is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine, with many street food vendors offering a range of tasty snacks and meals. Be sure to try some of the local dishes during your travels, but be cautious if you have any food allergies or sensitivities.
By following these tips, travelers can have an enjoyable and memorable experience while exploring all that Muttukadu has to offer during festivals and events or just on a regular day.
FAQs
What is Muttukadu?
Muttukadu is a small village located on the East Coast Road (ECR) in Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated between two major cities, Chennai and Mahabalipuram.
How to reach Muttukadu?
One can easily reach Muttukadu by road. Buses and taxis are available from both Chennai and Mahabalipuram. The nearest railway station is Chennai Central, which is about 25 kilometers from Muttukadu.
What are the major tourist attractions in Muttukadu?
Muttukadu is known for its backwaters and water sports activities. The major tourist attractions in Muttukadu include boating, windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking, and canoeing. There are also a few restaurants that offer seafood and local cuisine.
What are the best months to visit Muttukadu?
The best time to visit Muttukadu is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. During this time, the temperature ranges between 20°C to 28°C.
Is it safe to indulge in water sports activities in Muttukadu?
Yes, it is safe to indulge in water sports activities in Muttukadu as all the equipment provided by the authorities are well-maintained and regularly checked for safety measures.
Are there any accommodation options available in Muttukadu?
Yes, there are a few budget-friendly hotels and resorts available in Muttukadu that offer comfortable stay options with basic amenities.
Can we visit other nearby tourist attractions from Muttukadu?
Yes, one can visit other nearby tourist attractions like Mahabalipuram, Dakshina Chitra Museum, Crocodile Bank, etc., from Muttukadu as they are located within a radius of 10-20 kilometers.
