Exploring Mylapore: Backyard Tourism at its Best
The travel industry has seen a massive loss due to Covid-19. Seeing that both domestic travel across states and international travel were out of bounds, we opted for something that turned out to be surprisingly refreshing: exploring Mylapore as backyard tourists. But before we move on to the places you can visit in Mylapore (even after the restrictions are relaxed), let’s see why backyard tourism is your go-to option for taking a break in a safe way while the pandemic persists.
The benefits of Backyard Tourism include:
- They are Pocket Friendly
Backyard Tourism is primarily a local exploration activity. They save all the hefty amounts you pay for tickets.
- They are Perfect for the Weekends
The Pandemic has left us with loads of work to finish at home. By becoming backyard tourists, not only would you have to pack less for the trip, you’d also have a perfect weekend getaway planned in no-time
- You contribute to the local economy
Did you recently see a surge in the number of local restaurants food-bloggers are writing and talking about and found yourself wondering why you missed a delightful place so near to your place? Because what’s “right next door” is never on your dream list. But it often has one of the best things to offer! Backyard Tourism is just the way to explore all these places along with adding to the local economy.
Our experience in Mylapore turned out to be a unique one, one that we will cherish for a lifetime. It was a unique one not only because of the nagging itch to travel that had been there for quite a while but also because of the stories we heard about Mylapore’s own magic. It simply pulls you in for a soul-touching experience as soon as you step into Mylapore. Though a lot of locations might be under social distancing restrictions right now, do not miss the opportunity to visit the following locations in Mylapore when you get one.
Essential Spots to Visit in Mylapore:
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple has a magnificence of its own, so do the mythological tales around this temple. This place does not only hold religious significance, it has been looked upon as a site with great historical significance. Our visit included a long stroll around this temple, it was soothing indeed.
The Mylapore Tank
The Mylapore Tank is lined with small shops selling the most treasure-worthy delights and is right next to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. The Tank makes the area look even more serene and harmonious.
Old Mylapore ( North Mada Street )
This place is famous for its dolls and idols that are sold during the season of Navratri. The structures in Old Mylapore can leave you awestruck, as some of them are almost a century old. Nothing less valuable than socially valued heritage. We were enthr
alled as we took walks down the streets of Mylapore listening to the chirping of the birds, and it was indeed a refresher for Samaira. The pandemic has created an added difficulty for those who have toddlers in the house, and backyard tourism is just right for giving them more ground to play and explore during these times.
Best Places to Eat in Mylapore
Rayar Mess
Nestled in one of the bylanes of Mylapore, it is a no-frills mess, serves lip-smacking food. Go there for fluffy idlis, crispy vadas, and filter coffee.
Mylai Karpagambal Mess
Situated opposite to the main entrance of the Kapalishwarar Temple, the first thing that catches your attention is the walls adorned with pictures of idols and the aroma of ghee dosa snd coffee. Go there for idli, masala dosa, Pongal, and adai.
Kalathi Rosemilk Shop
After all the sightseeing and hot and humid weather of Chennai, quench your thirst with refreshing rose milk at Kalathi . There is always a long queue, trust us it id worth waiting!
Jannal Kadai
JAnnal kadai looselt translates to window shop. A small shop near the Kapalishwarar Temple they serve idili, dosa ,poori and bhajji. The highlight is the chutney that they serve along with the idili and bhajis .
Preserving My Unique Visit to Mylapore: Hiring Local Photographers
Traveling after a long time comes with the special need of each and every moment of discovery being recorded, perfectly. Searching for a photographer that could be booked led us to discover ShootMe, a company that helps travelers book photoshoots across India, Bali and Australia. We hired a photographer using ShootMe’s local network of professional photographers, thereby benefiting the local economy and preserving our moments of happiness at the same time. Surprisingly, the shoot was quite affordable and easy to book even in these times.
The trip was a blast, and so were the preserved memories!
Disclaimer: The photoshoot was sponsored by Shootme, but the views are our own based on our experience