Places to Visit in Chennai
Formerly known as Madras is the capital city of Tamil Nadu and is located on the Coromandel coast of Bay of Bengal. It is a rightly called the 'Gateway of South India' and is the prime cultural, economic and educational hub of the southern part of the country. It became the core of British East India's trading activity in the pre-independence era. Chennai and its suburbs are the living testimonies to distinct components of the Dravidian civilization.The city has a lot to offer to the visitors with its magnificent temples, scintillating beaches, UNESCO heritage sites, and prominent centers of cultural and historical significance. It remains well connected to the rest of the parts of the county and can be reached using air, rail and road.
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Marina Beach, Chennai
Marina Beach is acclaimed as one of the longest natural urban beaches in the world. It extends over a distance of 12 km along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal between St. George Fort in the North and Beasant Nagar in the South and is easily accessible by different modes of transport. The immaculate charm, blithesome ambiance, and diverse ecosystems make it a popular hangout for all. Dotted by several kiosks of eatables, ethnic handicrafts, souvenirs it is a hot spot of public activity especially during early mornings and evenings. The aquarium and the Icehouse are the prime attractions offered by the place. Kite flying, pony riding, and beach cricket are common sports at the beach.
AddressMarina Beach, Chennai
Place TypeNature Sites and Parks - Beaches
Best forMarried Couples, Unmarried Couples, Youngsters
Entry feeNo Entry Fee
Opening timeMarina Beach now is open 24 hours a day, all days of the week
Opening Days-
Best MonthJanuary, February, March, April
Valluvar Kottam, Chennai
An architectural marvel erected to commemorate the contributions of a distinguished poet, philosopher and saint Thiruvalluvar. Built under the aegis of architect V.Ganapati Sthapati the monument is designed in the shape of a temple chariot housing the life-size effigy of saint Thiruvalluvar. The monument is built of 3000 blocks of stones and stands baseless. It houses a capacious auditorium and the Kural Manimandapam, where 1330 verses of Thirukkural are inscribed. The figurine of a lion on the main gateway is adorned with splendid designs and the entire chariot is decorated with very famous as Kalamkari designs.
AddressNungambakkam Lake Area Main Road, ChennaiPlace TypeMonument - Palace & LandmarksBest forFamily, Kids, Friends, Married Couples, Solo, Unmarried Couples, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeValluvar Kottam opening and closing timing is 08:30 AM – 05:30 PMOpening DaysThe Valluvar Kottam is open every day for visitorsBest MonthJanuary, February, March, April, May, June
Thousand Lights Mosque, Chennai
The mosque was constructed in the conventional Islamic design with multiple domes and high minarets by the Wallajah family. It is one of the largest mosques in the country and is revered by all Muslim communities alike. The mosque houses the shrine of Imam Hossein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and is therefore of prime significance to the Shia Muslims around the world. Going by a popular narrative it took about 1000 oil lamps to lighten its large assembly hall and this is how the mosque got its name. The walls of the mosque are adorned with the lines from the Holy Quran. The mosque draws pilgrims and tourists from all over the world, especially during Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.
AddressRoyapettah, Peters Road, Peters Colony, ChennaiPlace TypeReligious Place - MosquesBest forFriends, Solo, Parents, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeThousand Lights Mosque opening and closing timing is 05:30 AM – 08:30 PMOpening DaysThe 1000 Lights is open every day for visitorsBest MonthJanuary, February, March, April, May, June
Elliot's Beach, Chennai
Elliot's beach popularly also known as Bessie is set towards the southern endpoint of Marina beach shore. The beach has been named after Edward Elliot, former Chief Magistrate and Superintendent of police. The dramatically sandy beach lures locals and tourists alike. It does not bustle with a lot of activity and leaves visitors mesmerized by its calmness and tranquility. It is an ideal spot for "me hours" and long solitary walks. Witnessing sunsets and sunrise here is a visual treat. Ashtalakshmi Temple dedicated to eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi and Velankanni Church erected in honor of Lady of Health are the key attractions of this pristine beach.
AddressElliot's Beach, ChennaiPlace TypeNature Sites and Parks - BeachesBest forFamily, Kids, Married Couples, Parents, SiblingsEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeElliot's Beach now is open 24 hours a day, all days of the weekOpening Days-Best MonthMay, June, July, August
Dakshinachitra Museum, Chennai
Dakshinachitra, literally means a picture of the South. It is one of the living-history museums in India set up with a mission of promoting and exhibiting the south Indian culture. Set up as a traditional village it has an array of 18 authentic dwellings that provide the viewers a glimpse of lifestyle, architecture , performing arts, and craft of South India in the most engaging manner. The museum was conceptualized by an NGO, Madras Craft Foundation and was inaugurated on 14th Dec 1996. The premises house a research unit, playground, community area, and souvenir kiosks. In the house, artisans display their wares and regular workshops are organized to promote the vernacular style of art.
AddressSH 49, Muttukadu, ChennaiPlace TypeMuseum and Gallery - Art Galleries & MuseumBest forFamily, Kids, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeIndian Adult - ₹175/- Indian Child (5 to 12 years of age) - ₹60/-, Indian Child (13 to 18 years of age) - ₹100/-, Overseas Visitors - ₹350/-, Overseas Students - ₹100/-Opening timeDakshinachitra Museum opening and closing timing is 10:00 AM – 06:00 PMOpening DaysDakshinachitra Museum open for visitors Best MonthJanuary, February, March, April
Ashtalakshmi Temple, Chennai
Ashtalakshmi Temple is dedicated to eight avatars of goddess Lakshmi. It is located along the shorelines of Elliot Beach in Besant Nagar. The grandiose shrine measures 65ft in length and 45 ft in breadth. The most remarkable feature of the shrine is that it is constructed in the shape of om. Eight forms of goddess symbolizing wealth, offspring, success, prosperity, courage, bravery, food, and knowledge are present in nine separate sanctums on four floors. The second floor of the temple has the shrine of Goddess Lakshmi and her consort Lord Vishnu.
AddressElliots Beach, Besant Nagar, ChennaiPlace TypeReligious Place - TempleBest forFamily, Kids, Friends, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeAshtalakshmi Temple opening and closing timing from Monday to Friday in morning is 07:00 AM – 11:00 PM, in evening 05:30 AM – 08:30 PM and From Saturday to Sunday timing is in morning is 07:30 AM – 01:00 PM, in evening 05:30 AM – 08:30 PMOpening DaysThe Temple is open from Tuesday to Monday in a week, Closed on every Friday.Best MonthJanuary, February, March, April
Government Museum, Chennai
The Government Museum famed as Egmore Museum or the Madras Museum is the second oldest museum in India. It offers a peek into human history, tradition, art, and culture. Its exceptional collection of coins, archeological splendor, the biggest collection of bronze idols, and the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe make it the third-largest museum in the world. The museum is located in Pantheon Complex which also houses a Public library and a National Art gallery. The Government museum owes its roots to a museum that was planned by the Madras Literary Society in 1846. The museum complex has six buildings and nearly fifty galleries dedicated to different branches of studies like anthropology, archeology, zoology, contemporary art, geology, and others.
AddressPantheon Road, Egmore, ChennaiPlace TypeMuseum and Gallery - Govt. Museum & MemorialsBest forFamily, Kids, Friends, Solo, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeIndian Adult - ₹15/- Indian Child (3 to 12 years of age) - ₹10/-, Student Group (minimum 25 person) - ₹05/-(per person), Foreign Visitor Adult - ₹250/- Foreign Visitor chid - ₹125/-Still Camera - ₹200/-, Video Camera - ₹500/-
Ticket Will be issued till 4:30PM
Opening timeGovernment Museum opening and closing timing is 09:30 AM – 05:00 PMOpening DaysThe Museum is open from Saturday to Thirsday in a week, Closed on every Friday and National holidays.Best MonthMay, June, July, August
Mylapore, Chennai
Mylapore or the land of peacock scream is a neighbourhood suburb located a few kilometers in the south of Chennai. It is regarded as a cultural hub and is widely acclaimed for its sacrosanct sites and cultural venues. It is the birthplace of the famous Tamil philosopher Valluvar. The primary attractions include a Dravidian architectural marvel Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar temple, Adikesava Perumal Temple, Srinivasar temple, Madhava Perumal temple, Ramkrishna mutt, San Thome Basilica, Luz Church and, madras music academy. Malyapore has been home to several Carnatic vocalists and music organizations. Music sabhas are regularly organized to promote and conserve cultural heritage. It hosts several eateries serving South Indian delights. It is easily accessible and remains well connected with other parts of the city.
AddressElliot's Beach, ChennaiPlace TypeReligious Place - TempleBest forFriends, Solo, Parents, YoungstersFees & TimingNo Information.Best MonthMay, June, July, August
Guindy National Park, Chennai
This destination tops the itinerary list of most of the visitors. The park was formerly called "Guindy Lodge " and was the official residence of the governor of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the very few parks located inside the city. Owing to its small area, it is ranked as the eighth smallest National park in India. The park with its rich biodiversity is an abode to around 350 species of plants, over 14 species of mammals, and over 150 species of birds. Its prime attractions include a snake park with king cobras, pythons, and vipers, children's park which has a mini railway, several swings, playground, elephant and pony rides which and memorials to great modern Indian leaders.
AddressRangeguindy, ChennaiPlace TypeNature Sites and Parks - Park & GardenBest forFamily, Kids, ParentsEntry feeAdult (per person) - ₹20/- Child (per head) - ₹15/-, Photography (per mobile) - ₹20/-Opening timeGuindy National Park opening and closing timing is 09:30 AM – 05:40 PMOpening DaysThe Guindy National Park is open every day for visitorsBest MonthJanuary, February, March
Sri Parthasarathy Temple, Chennai
Situated at Tiruvallikeni, Tamil Nadu the temple has its roots attached to the 8th century Pallava dynasty. It is an existent testimony to India's glorious past. It gets its name Parthasarthy from Krishna's role as Arjuna's (Parth) charioteer(saarthy) in Mahabharata. The temple is believed to be the resting place for pilgrims visiting Tirupati specifically during solar and lunar eclipses. The temple has gopurams and mandapas adorned with ornate carvings. The shrine houses the figurines of all five avatars of Lord Vishnu Narashima, Rama, Varadaraja, Ranganatha, and Krishna.
AddressNarayana Krishnaraja Puram, Triplicane, ChennaiPlace TypeReligious Place - TempleBest forFamily, Kids, Friends, Married Couples, Solo, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeSri Parthasarathy Temple opening and closing time in morning is 05:30 AM – 12:00 PM and in evening is 04:00PM – 09:00 PMOpening DaysThe Sri Parthasarathy Temple is open every day for visitorsBest MonthSeptember, October, November, December
Kapaleeswarar Temple, Chennai
Dedicated to Lord Shiva known as Kapaleeswarar and his consort Goddess Parvati is known as Karpagambal (goddess of the wish yielding tree) the temple is a 7th-century exquisite specimen of Dravidian architecture. It is located in Mylapore and according to the legend Shakti worshipped Shiva in the form of a peacock here. The temple has two gopurams one on the eastern and other on the western side and a sacred water tank. The deities in the shrine are seated on vahana or chariots and the pilgrims consider it a privilege to pull or lift them. Religious rituals are performed six times a day and each ritual has four steps of Abhisheka, Alangaram, Nivethanam, Deepa aradanai.
AddressVinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, ChennaiPlace TypeReligious Place - TempleBest forFamily, Kids, Friends, Married Couples, Solo, Unmarried Couples, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeKapaleeswarar Temple opening and closing time in morning is 05:00 AM – 12:30 PM and in evening is 04:00PM – 08:00 PMOpening DaysThe Kapaleeswarar Temple is open every day for visitorsBest MonthJanuary, February, March, April
Connemara Public Library, Chennai
Connemara Library Named after the former governor of Madras Lord Connemara the library is a part of the majestic Madras Museum Complex on the Pantheon Road, Egmore. With a humungous collection of over 600,000 books, it has been declared as the National Depository Library by the Central Government of India. It has tall pillars inlaid with intricate designs and impressive interiors that leave one and all mesmerized. The library has a repository of centuries-old publications,including1608 Bible. With the addition of a new three-storied building it now has a textbook section, a periodical hall,a reference room, a video room, an IAS study center, and an entire floor dedicated to books on Indian languages.
AddressPantheon Road, Egmore, ChennaiPlace TypeMuseum and Gallery - Govt. Museum & MemorialsBest forFamily, Kids, Friends, Solo, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeConnemara Public Library opening and closing timing is 08:00 AM – 08:00 PMOpening DaysThe Library is open every day for visitorsBest MonthSeptember, October, November, December
Royapuram Fishing Harbour, Chennai
Popularly known as Kasimedu fishing harbor it is one of the most well known aligning grounds located in the north of Chennai Port. The harbor has a capacity of handling over one thousand boats and hundreds of catamarans. It is under the administrative control of Chennai Port Trust and the routine day to day activities are managed by the local fishing community. The local market around the place maintains an inviting display of an exotic variety of seafood and keeps bustling with activity all through the day. It's most remarkable feature is its auction hall where day's catch is sold off for retail selling not just locally but also to the neighboring states.
AddressRoyapuram Fishing Harbour, ChennaiPlace TypeSightseeing - BeachesBest forFriends, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeThe Royapuram Fishing Harbour can be visited anytime during the day, this is always open for public.Opening Days-Best MonthSeptember, October, November, December
Semmozhi Poonga, Chennai
Established in 2010 it happens to be the first Botanical garden in Chennai, located on Cathedral Road, Anna Salai junction. It is an ideal place to spend leisure time with friends and family while immersing one's soul in the beauty of nature. It has an exotic collection of several oriental varieties plants especially bonsais imported from China and Thailand, exotic flora, medicinal plants, and aromatic herbs. It houses eight sub garden and twenty-five thematic gardens including water and rock garden, golden garden, mural walk, butterfly garden, fern garden, sunken garden, etc. Other prime attractions at the garden include canteen serving savory refreshments, an artificial duck pond, many water cascades,vertical gardens, and an amphitheater.
AddressEllaiamman Colony, Teynampet, ChennaiPlace TypeNature Sites and Parks - Park & GardenBest forFamily, Kids, Friends, Solo, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeGenral entry ticket price is ₹25/- (per head), but when you visit in Chennai Flower Show time then Adult (per person) - ₹150/- and Child(5-12yrs) - ₹75/-Opening timeSemmozhi Poonga opening and closing timing is 10:00 AM – 07:30 PMOpening DaysThe Semmozhi Poonga Garden is open every day for visitorsBest MonthJanuary, February, March
Marundeeswarar Temple, Chennai
It is a 1300-year-old temple, located in Thiruvanmiyur, with Lord Shiva as the main deity. It leaves the visitors awestruck by its astounding unique architectural style of architecture showing traces from the Chola and The Pallava dynasties. Going by the legend lord Marundeeshwar imparted knowledge about magical medicines to Sage Agastya and since then it is thronged by people with diseases and health issues. The people have a firm belief that the special prasadam acts as a panacea and helps them regain stable health. It has two five-tiered gateway towers (raja gopuram), a huge tank, mandapa with 36 intricately decorated pillars. The shrine has idols of three avatars of shiva Thyagaraja, Marundeeswarar, and Natraja.
AddressLalitha Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur, ChennaiPlace TypeReligious Place - TempleBest forFamily, Married Couples, Friends, Parents, Siblings, YoungstersEntry feeNo Entry FeeOpening timeMarundeeswarar Temple opening and closing timing in morning is 06:00 AM – 12:30 PM and in evening is 04:00 PM – 08:30 AMOpening DaysThe Marundeeswarar Temple is open every day for visitorsBest MonthMay, June, July, AugustChennai City FAQs:
𝒜. Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, attracts many visitors either as tourists or as part of its large workforce.We know that Chennai is popular for IIT and for being an IT and industrial hub.
𝒜. November to February months constitute the winter season in Chennai. It is considered as the best time to visit the city. The temperature during these months hovers between 20 and 25 Degree Celsius.
𝒜. Chennai is the city of Tamil Nadu state of India.
𝒜. Chennai International Airport is an international airport serving the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, and its metropolitan area. It is located in Tirusulam, 21 km from the city centre.
𝒜. Name of railway station(s) in Chennai city: Chennai Fort railway station, Nungambakkam railway station, Guindy railway station, Chennai Central railway station, Villivakkam railway station, Kasturba Nagar railway station
𝒜. Malls and Shopping places in Chennai city: Phoenix Marketcity, Spencer Plaza, Forum Vijaya Mall, Chennai Citi Centre, Ampa Skywalk Mall, VR Chennai Mall, Fountain Plaza, Express Avenue Mall, Abirami Mega Mall, Gold Souk Grande Mall, Forum Vijaya Mall,
𝒜. Famous Religious places in Chennai city: The Ornate Kapaleeshwarar Temple, The Ancient Parthasarathy Temple, The Sacred Temple of Thyagaraja, The Rich Ashtalakshmi Temple, The Famous Vadapalani Andavar Temple, The Penitent Mangadu Kamakshi Amman Temple, The Royal(ish) Kalikambal Temple, The Standalone Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
𝒜. Fun and Activity places in Chennai city: Sunkissed at Marina Beach, Vandalur Zoo, Nightlife of Chennai, VGP Universal Kingdom, Fun City , Muttukadu Beach, Margazhi Music Festival, East Coast Road, Guindy National Park
𝒜. Following are the names of major bus terminals of the Chennai city: Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus, TNSTC Bus Terminus, SETC Bus Terminus, MTC Bus Terminus, Kilambakkam bus terminus, Madhavaram Inter-city Bus Terminus
𝒜. Yes, Chennai city has metro rail facility to commute locally. Search Chennai Metro routes.
𝒜. Following are the names of popular localities in Chennai city: Meat and Eat Restaurant, Hotel Pushpa, May Day Park, Spencer Plaza, Hotel Ananda, Cit Nagar Corporation Park, Hotel Saravana Bhavan, Grand Galada Centre Mall,
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