Covelong, on the east coast bordering the route to Mahabalipuram and nearly 40 km south of Chennai, in the state of Tamil Nadu, is an ideal destination for a quick getaway. In the earlier days, Covelong was a port town developed by Saadat Ali Nawab, which was then taken over by the French under the the French General Labourdonnais in 1746. Later, the British led by Robert Clive destroyed it in 1752.
Covelong is known for its unique shore temples dating from the 5th - 8th centuries. The temples belong to the Pallava rulers, and are made of single, rock cut caves, and other different structures. A canal running parallel to the Bay of Bengal divides Covelong Beach from the mainland and flows from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. Covelong is a well-known place for water sports like windsurfing, swimming and others.
Today, Covelong is better known for its fishing activities and the calm and serene beaches. Besides nature, Covelong also has some historical places near the beautiful beaches. There is an ancient Dutch fort nearby with a few walls remaining. An ancient Catholic Church is amongst the most famous of many religious monuments at Covelong. From Covelong, tours can be taken to nearby Mahabalipuram, famous for its rock temples built in the 6th-8th centuries.
The best time to visit Covelong is November to February. The destination can be easily reached by buses from Pondicherry, Travancore, Kanchipuram, Karaikal and Chennai. Since it is close to Chennai, it can also be reached by flights and trains to Chennai from where buses are available to Covelong.