Top 10 tourist Spots in Chennai
Chennai, the dynamic capital of Tamil Nadu, is a centre of beauty, culture, and history in addition to being one of India’s largest metropolitan areas. We’ve collected a list of must-see locations to get your adventure started in Chennai, whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor ready to explore the city.
Overall Impressions
Blend of Old and New: Tourists often appreciate the unique blend of ancient traditions and modern development. The juxtaposition of historic temples and contemporary skyscrapers is a distinctive feature of the city.
Cultural Hub: Chennai is frequently described as a cultural hub, rich in music, dance, and art, offering a deep dive into South Indian culture.
FAQS
1.When would be the best time to travel to Chennai?
November through February, when the weather is milder and more pleasant, is the ideal time of year to visit Chennai. The intense summer heat and the monsoon season’s torrential rains are avoided during this time.
2.Do any UNESCO World Heritage sites exist in the vicinity of Chennai?
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mahabalipuram (also called Mamallapuram) is situated approximately 60 kilometres away from Chennai. It is well-known for the sculptures and rock-cut temples there.
3.Where can I shop for local goods in Chennai?
Nagar is a popular shopping district known for its silk sarees and gold jewellery. Malls like Phoenix Market City and Express Avenue offer a mix of local and international brands.
4.Is it safe for visitors to visit Chennai?
Travellers are typically thought to feel safe in Chennai. Standard safety measures, such as avoiding remote locations at night, monitoring personal items, and utilising dependable transportation services, are nevertheless advised.
5.What are some must-try foods in Chennai?
Some must-try dishes include:
Idli and Dosa (with sambar and chutney)
Vada
Filter Coffee
Chettinad Cuisine (known for its spicy flavours)
Top 10 Tourist Spot In Chennai
1. Santhome Cathedral Basilica
St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, sometimes referred to as Santhome Cathedral Basilica, is a prominent landmark in Chennai with deep religious and historical significance. Constructed atop the tomb of St. Thomas, a prominent apostle of Jesus Christ, the cathedral serves as a popular destination for pilgrims, particularly the Syrian Christians residing in India. The origins of the church can be traced to St. Thomas, who arrived in India in 52 AD. It is thought that his remains are under the current building. Portuguese explorers constructed the basilica itself in the sixteenth century, and in 1896 the British reconstructed it in the Gothic Revival style.
Google rating: 4.7 based on 14,580 reviews
Location: 38, Santhome High Road Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004
Contact number: 04424985455
Type of place: Shrine
Timings: 6 am – 9 pm
Entry Fee: Free
2. Edward Elliot's Beach
Besant Nagar Beach, also called Edward Elliot’s Beach, is a well-liked destination for both locals and visitors. Edward Elliot was a prominent colonial administrator. It is a cultural monument with adjacent attractions including the Ashtalakshmi Temple and the Annai Vailankanni Church. The beach is well-known for being safe and clean, and it has amenities including a police station to safeguard guests.
Google rating: 4.4 based on 7,294 reviews
Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai, India
Type of place: Beach
Entry Fee: Free
3. Madras War Cemetery
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission founded the Madras War Cemetery in 1952 as a memorial to Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives in the Second World War. There are 856 warriors from different countries buried in this immaculately kept cemetery. There is a war memorial there as well for those who lost their lives in World War I. Every year on November 11, the cemetery observes Armistice Day, a day of respect and commemoration for the fallen soldiers.
Google rating: 4.4 based on 265 reviews
Location: 257V+JH5, Mount Poonamallee High Road, Nandambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600032
Type of place: War Cemetery
Timing: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
4. Government Museum Chennai
The second-oldest museum in India, the Government Museum, Chennai, also called the Madras Museum, was founded in 1851 and has an incredible collection that includes art, numismatics, anthropology, and archeology. A sneak peek of what’s in store for you includes bronzes, sculptures, and antiques from the Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagar dynasties, as well as items from the Indus Valley Civilization. The magnificent Nataraja bronze, a representation of cosmic dance, will enthral you.
Google rating: 4.3 based on 15,853 reviews
Location: Government Museum, Pantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008
Type of place: Museum
Timings: 9:30 am – 5 pm
Time Required: 1– 2 hrs.
Fee: Adult ₹15
5. Marina Beach
Marina Beach, spanning a magnificent 13 kilometres, is the second-longest urban beach globally (approximately 8.08 mi). This is the location of the impressive lighthouse, the historical sites Anna Memorial, M.G.R. Memorial, Amma Memorial, and Kalaignar Memorial. Experience the essence of Chennai’s culture by witnessing traditional pastimes like kite flying, horseback riding, and sand art. Additionally, you will come across sellers offering mouthwatering street cuisine, gifts made by hand, and souvenirs. Ideal for long walks, basking in the sun, and taking in the wind from the Bay of Bengal.
Google rating: 4.3 based on 56,936 reviews
Type of place: Beach
Timings: Throughout the day
Time Required: 2-3 hours
Entry Fee: Free
6. Fort St. George Museum
A historical site, Fort St. George was constructed by the British East India Company in 1644. The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly is currently housed in the fort, demonstrating its enduring importance in politics. The fort museum, housed inside the fort’s walls, is filled with relics, portraits, and displays that describe the fort’s lengthy history and its significance to India’s fight for independence.
Google rating: 4.2 based on 4615 reviews
Location: Rajaji Rd, near Legislature and Secretariat, Fort St George, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600009
Contact number: 04425671127
Type of place: Fort
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm, Friday holiday
Time Required: less than an hour
Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians
₹200 for foreign tourists
7. Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Founded in 1855, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, popularly referred to as Vandalur Zoo, is the first public zoo in India and is situated near Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The zoo, which bears the name Annadurai after the Tamil politician, is a haven for a variety of species with an emphasis on conservation, education, and research to promote and preserve nature.
The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including exotic species like emus and cassowaries and endangered species like the white tiger, Bengal tiger, and Nilgiri macaque. It offers a deeper look at diverse animal habitats with areas including a butterfly house, a reptile house, and more that visitors can explore.
Google rating: 4.2 based on 66,401 reviews
Location: Grand Southern Trunk Rd, Vandalur – 600048
Contact number: 04429542301
Type of place: Zoo
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm, closed on Tuesdays
Time Required: 3 – 4 hrs.
Entry Fee: Adults- INR 50
Children below 2 years- Free
Children aged 2-12 years- INR 20
Cameras- INR 25
Zoo round (Adult): INR 100
Zoo round (Child): INR 50
8. Valluvar Kottam
The majestic Valluvar Kottam monument is dedicated to Thiruvalluvar, a renowned Tamil poet and philosopher. It has a chariot-like design. Engraved on the monument’s walls are the Thirukkural’s 1330 couplets, providing visitors with a plethora of information to explore. Built in 1976, the monument has a height of 39 metres. A park with a theatre, museum, and library surrounds the monument. The monument is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world, including scholars and students.
Google rating: 4.0 based on 81 reviews
Location: Tirumurthy Nagar, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600034
Type of place: Museum
Timings: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Time Required: 1– 2 hrs.
Entry Fee: Adults: INR 3
Kids: INR 2
9. B.M. Birla Planetarium
The B.M. Birla Planetarium in Chennai was founded in 1983 and opened by President R Venkataraman in 1988. It is located on the Kotturpuram campus of the Periyar Science and Technology Centre. The planetarium presents a variety of sky shows in Tamil and English that cover subjects such as the Earth, the Solar System, eclipses, and human space travel. The purpose of these presentations is to inform and motivate guests about the marvels of the cosmos.
Google rating: 4.1 based on 2,589 reviews
Location: Gandhi Mandapam Road Kotturpuram, Chennai – 600025
Contact number: 04424410025
Type of place: Planetarium
Timings: 10 am – 5:45 pm
Time Required: 3 – 4 hrs.
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
10. Semmozhi Poonga
The first botanical garden in Chennai, Semmozhi Poonga, was opened in 2010 by M. Karunanidhi, the chief minister at the time. The Tamil Nadu government’s departments of Agricultural Engineering and Horticulture worked together to create this 20-acre park. More than 500 different plant species can be found there, including uncommon and exotic plant species as well as fragrant and therapeutic herbs. Additionally, the park features numerous ficus macrocarpa and ficus ginseng bonsai variations.
Google rating: 4.1 based on 25, 1749 reviews
Location: 3722+6H7, Cathedral Rd, opposite American Consulate, Ellaiamman Colony, Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600086
Type of place: Garden & Park
Time Required: 1– 2 hrs.
Parking: INR 50
Conclusion
In conclusion, visitors to Chennai generally have a good time, appreciating the city’s historical significance, cultural diversity, and friendly locals. The city is a popular travel destination for many because it provides a wide range of attractions to suit various interests.
