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With every rhythmic crash of the waves, the city of Chennai reverberates in its colors and culture. Speaking one of the oldest languages in the world, the capital of Tamil Nadu is a vibrant destination ideal for experiencing the rich values and traditions of southern India.
While modern tech parks and skyscrapers line its streets today, Chennai still proudly holds on to its rich heritage. Celebrating festivals with intense fervor, reveling in their art, and churning magic with their age-old recipes, the people of Chennai stay true to their cultural roots.
In fact, it’s a familiar sight to witness Chennai’s women riding their two-wheelers, gracefully draped in half sarees (dance sarees), on their way to a dance institution, after a harrowing day at the office.
So if you’re new in town or planning a vacation to South India, here’s a quick guide to sightseeing in Chennai. From ancient temples, and monumental churches to the city’s modern parks and entertainment attractions, we’ve made a list of the best things to do in Chennai.
Contents
Top 29 Places to Visit in Chennai (Madras)
Best Beaches In Chennai
1. Marina Beach
Chennai is home to the second-longest beach in the world — Marina Beach. Stretching about 13 km, it is undoubtedly one of the liveliest destinations in the city.
Catch a panoramic vista of the sea from the Lighthouse before heading to the beach.
Then explore the entire stretch from the Gandhi Statue to the monumental memorials of Dr. MGR (Indian actor and former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu) and Dr. J. Jayalalithaa (Indian actress and former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu) and their respective museums.
Watching the sunrise at Marina Beach is a special tourist attraction. You can also jog, walk, collect shells, take a dip in the water, or simply immerse yourself in the tranquility of the setting.
In the evenings, the Marina is usually packed with locals and tourists. Little food stalls, games, and souvenir shops line the beach, making it an interesting place to hang out with your friends and family.
You can also check out nearby tourist attractions like the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Vivekananda House, the University Of Madras, and the Presidency College Chennai.
The Thiruvanmiyur Beach or Thiruvalluvar Nagar Beach has a more homely feel and appears less touristy. Its clean shores flanked by a couple of good local eateries and cozy seating arrangements make it an ideal destination for spending quality time with your loved ones. This is also one of the most beautiful beaches in Chennaiwhere you can enjoy a variety of beach sports like cricket and volleyball.
Edward Elliot’s Beach or Besant Nagar Beach has always been my favorite, especially due to the mouthwatering eateries dotting the area. From KFC, Ibaco, Tamen – The Local Ramen, to various multi-cuisine restaurants, and local food stalls like Chennai’s favorite Murugan Idli Shop, Bessie is a foodie’s paradise.
The beach is also located in one of Chennai’s most serene and posh localities, featuring tree-lined avenues and breathtaking bungalows. It offers abundant parking space, washrooms, and seating options. The wide promenade along the shore is perfect for joggers or travelers seeking a stroll by the sea.
If time permits, visit The Huddleston Gardens of Theosophical Society located close to the beach for a tranquil time amidst nature.
There is a beautiful memorial at Besant Nagar Beach dedicated to the Dutch sailor Kaj Schmidt who risked his life to save a girl from drowning.
4. Blue Flag Beach Kovalam
The Kovalam Blue Flag Beach is a picturesque destination that has gained popularity owing to its eco-certification. This is one of the cleanest beaches in Chennai and offers a variety of water sports activities such as surfing, swimming, etc.
The beach has an entry ticket of INR 20 and provides various amenities such as ample parking space, clean changing rooms, washrooms, paved roads, thatched umbrellas and sunbath cane recliners, a children’s play area, and small eateries.
The Blue Flag Beach serves as a perfect spot for family picnics, camping trips, or a romantic day out at the beach.
A couple of other beaches in Chennai that you can visit include Bharatiyar Nagar Beach, VGP Golden Beach (within VGP Universal Kingdom), and Neelangarai Beach. Many beach resorts in ECR also offer private beach facilities.
Book a private sightseeing tour of Chennai on booking.com!
Famous Temples In Chennai
1. Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathy Perumal Temple Tiruvallikeni
This is one of the oldest and most revered Vishnu (Perumal) temples in Chennai. It was constructed under the patronage of King Narasimhavarman I of the Pallava Dynasty. Dating back to the 6th Century, the Parthasarathy Perumal Temple is a fine display of Dravidian Temple architecture. The name Parthasarathy refers to Lord Krishna’s role as the charioteer of Arjunain the Indian mythological epic Mahabharata.
This temple was restored in 1564 CE and more shrines were added to the original temple complex. Inscriptions within the temple bear mentions of kings from both the Pallava and the Chola Dynasty who contributed to building the temple. Located in Triplicane, you can easily visit the temple during your outing to Marina Beach.
Overlooking the sea, the Ashtalakshmi Temple majestically stands on the shores of Elliot’s Beach. Consecrated in 1976, the temple is dedicated to the 8 forms of Goddess Lakshmi, believed to be the bestower of wealth and prosperity in Hinduism. The temple has a multi-tier structure, measuring a length of 65 feet and a breadth of 45 feet. Each form of the goddess is worshipped in a dedicated sanctum across the four levels.
This magnificent Shiva temple in Chennai was built in the 7th Century during the Pallava Dynasty Rule. Crafted in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple features an imposing 120 ft. Gopuram and inscriptions that date back to the 12th century. There are many shrines within the temple complex, each dedicated to a particular Hindu deity.
The temple also has a Nata Mandapa (dance hall), which frequently hosts classical dance and music performances. The street leading up to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple is lined with age-old shops that sell Bharatanatyam dance jewelry, pooja items, and traditional cotton and silk sarees.
The Madras Kali Bari is a renowned temple dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Kali. It was inaugurated on 3rd February 1981 by Swami Lokeshwaranand Maharaj of Belur Math. Overlooked by a dedicated Bengali management, this is one of those few places in Chennai that celebrates Durga Puja every year bringing together the Bengali community residing in the city.
The temple is also involved in a variety of social activities and offers free food during special pujas. The management also maintains an open public library and a budget-friendly Dharamshala (accommodation) for devotees and needy patients who come to Chennai for treatment.
This majestic temple built in 1952 by B V Narasimhaswami (the great devotee of Sai Baba) is a haven of peace that is open to devotees across the globe irrespective of their religious afflictions. One of the main attractions of the temple is to witness the revered idol of Shri Sai Baba being adorned in vibrant attire that his worshippers often offer. The temple also serves daily meals to its devotees.
This gorgeous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman features a towering 32-ft idol sculpted out of a single piece of granite. The deity is housed within the temple tower, which is 90 ft. tall. The temple also has idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Vinayaka, and other Hindu deities.
Also known as the Vadapalani Andavar Temple, this magnificent temple was built in the 19th century through the efforts of Annaswamy Nayakar, a devotee of Lord Murugan. Later, the temple was renovated in 1920 and a majestic Rajagopuram featuring tales from the Skanda Purana was added to it.
It is believed that those who cannot visit the Murugan temple in Palani come here to seek the blessings of the Lord. The temple is also considered auspicious for marriages.
The Ramakrishna Math in Mylapore is a sanctuary of peace. Founded by Swami Ramakrishnananda upon the wishes of Swami Vivekananda, the Math (temple) provides devotees with an ideal space for meditation. In its initial years, the temple was also visited by Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi and many other direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna, a Bengali saint who was considered a form of God by the community.
The Math houses two beautiful temples. The old temple has a vintage design quite reminiscent of the old Calcutta buildings. The new temple, built in 2000, hosts a majestic shrine dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna. It is decorated with intricately carved wood and marble pillars. Adorned with landscaped gardens and ethereal architecture, this temple is one of Chennai’s most beautiful tourist destinations.
The Ramakrishna Math in Chennai also runs two schools and funds various educational and social development activities.
Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi and Lord Kamadeshwarar, this temple was originally built in the location of Fort St. George. Later it was translocated to its present site in Parry’s Corner during British rule.
Legend states that the great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji visited this temple in 1677. The fierce form of the Goddess was also replaced with the peaceful Goddess Kamakshi. Later around 1980, a towering Gopuram measuring 10 meterswas added to the temple structure.
Located in Thiruvanmiyur, the Marundeeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is revered for its miraculous healing properties. Marundu means medicine. Legend has it that Lord Shiva imparted his knowledge of curative herbs to Sage Agastya and hence, became known as Marundeeswarar. It is also believed that sage Valmiki worshiped Lord Shiva in this temple and thus, the place was named Thiruvalmikiyur, now known as Thiruvanmiyur.
The temple displays an interesting blend of Pallava and Chola dynasty architecture and has towering 5-tier Gopurams adorning both its gateways. The main prayer hall stands on 36 intricately carved pillars and also houses various other Hindu deities in different shrines within the temple complex.
Located in Sholinganallur, the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radharani, Lord Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra, Lord Sri Chaitanya, and Lord Nityananda. Like all ISKCON temples, this temple is also a gorgeous 5-tier sanctum spread across 1.5 acres of land. Some striking features within the temple include a 500-piece Himalayan Quartz Crystal Chandelier that is believed to enhance the spiritual power of the temple and fine teak-wood altars that house the prime deities.
Also known as San Thome Church, this is a popular tourist destination in Chennai, located close to the Marina Beach. In 1523 AD, the church was constructed by Portuguese missionaries over what they assumed to be the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle.
In 1545, Saint Francis Xavier visited the church and resided there for a year conducting regular holy mass services. In 1606, the church was converted into a cathedral by Pope Paul V. Later in 1896, the cathedral was rebuilt by the British in its magnificent Gothic style as it stands today.
Pope John Paul II visited the cathedral in 1956 and in 2004, it was declared a National Shrine.
Often referred to as the ‘Westminster Abbey Of The East’, this gorgeous Anglican church is located within Fort St. George. Consecrated on 28 October 1680, this is also the church where Robert Clive married Margaret Maskelyne in 1753.
A notable feature of this church is its 4-feet-thick exterior walls that were constructed to keep attacks and storms at bay. Also, its roof was designed to repel cannon balls.
The altarpiece depicting The Last Supper was part of the spoils brought by the British from Pondicherry. In fact, the central figure in the painting is believed to have been painted by Raphael himself!
3. Annai Vailankanni Our Lady Of Good Health, Besant Nagar
This is one of the most beautiful churches in Chennai overlooking Elliot’s Beach in Besant Nagar. The old church was built in 1972 while the new church, which has an air-conditioned prayer hall, was opened to the public in 2001. The church also has a 25-year-old museum that displays articles and offerings made to Mother Mary.
Located in George Town, the Armenian Church (Saint Mary Church) is one of the oldest churches in Chennai. It was initially constructed in 1712 and then rebuilt in 1772. Apart from the church’s unique architecture, it is also well known for its bell tower which features 6 bells of different sizes. These are rung during special occasions such as Christmas.
Perched atop a hillock overlooking the city, the Saint Thomas Mount Church is one of the oldest churches in Chennai and a major tourist attraction. It is believed that Saint Thomas, one of the 12 Apostles of Christ, came to India to spread the word of Christianity. He was martyred at Saint Thomas Mount. Owing to the religious significance of the site, it was visited by Pope John Paul II on February 5th, 1986.
What adds to the beauty of the church is the mesmerizing view from the top. For those who like a trek, you can opt for the 160 steep stairs that spiral up to the top of the mount or drive up the scenic route that faintly resembles the winding avenues of a hill station.
TWT Tip: If you feel a little peckish by the time you reach the top of St. Thomas Mount, you can check out the small bakery near the church called Mount Mania. They serve little baked goodies and cold beverages and also have a rooftop seating area.
Other churches in Chennai
Other popular churches that you can visit in Chennai are Our Lady Of Light Shrine (Luz Church) in Luz Church Road, St. Andrews Church (The Kirk) in Egmore, St Teresa’s Church in Nungambakkam, C.S.I. St. George’s Cathedral in Gopalapuram, and Wesley Church in Egmore.
Get Travel Ready With All The Essentials For Your Next Trip! Photo: Mokobara Suitcase
Stretching across 2.75 acres of land, the cemetery was established in 1952 to maintain 856 Commonwealth War Graves from World War II permanently. The lawns of the cemetery are meticulously maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The cemetery also showcases the 1914-1918 War Memorial.
2. Government Museum (Madras Museum or Chennai Museum)
Located in Egmore, this 173-year-old museum has a stunning collection of archaeological artifacts that speak about the evolution of human history. It is considered to be the second oldest museum in the country after the Indian Museum in Kolkata. It houses rare antique Roman artifacts and priceless bronze idols that date back to 1000 BCE.
Chennai Museum also includes The National Art Gallery and the Connemara Public Library, which being one of the four National Depository Libraries in the country, receives a copy of all books published in India.
Timings: 9.30 am-5.30 pm
Entry Fees: INR 15 (Indians) and INR 250 (Foreigners)
India’s oldest railway station (that is still operational) and the first in South India, exists in Chennai! The Royapuram Railway Station was inaugurated in 1856 by the then Governor of Madras, Lord Harris, and is 168 years old.
3. Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum
Dakshinachitra is a cultural museum that upholds the rich cultural history of South India. Opened in 1996, it displays the art, architecture, and lifestyle of the people of South India.
Stretching across 10 acres of land, the museum features 18 houses that display the traditional architecture of the different states of South India namely, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Most of these houses, some over 100 years old, were purchased, demolished, carefully transported, and then reconstructed in their original style at Dakshinachitra.
Apart from its brilliant display of South Indian art, the museum also holds various traditional and folk dance performances to preserve the unique performing arts of South India.
For more information, check out this official video of Dakshinachitra.
This is Chennai’s first botanical garden built over an expanse of 20 acres. Opened in 2010, the garden features over 500 plants, including various rare species. The garden also includes an expansive parking lot and is one of the best tourist places in Chennai ideal for an immersive experience in nature.
The museum is located within one of Fort St.George’s oldest buildings, which was constructed around 1795. The Fort Museum was officially opened in 1948 with a minimal collection of antiquities belonging to the British Raj collected from the Madras Presidency Government.
Now, it showcases an intriguing collection of arms, paintings, uniforms, medals, porcelain tableware, coins, letters, and documents. The Fort is quite close to Marina Beach. Hence you can plan your trip accordingly. Also, check out the War Memorial on your way to the Fort.
Note: Since Fort St. George houses The Legislature of Tamil Nadu, tourists have limited access to different parts of the fort. The museum, however, is open to all. You need to carry your ID card to enter the fort premises.
Timings: 9 a.m-5 p.m
Entry Fees: INR 15 (Indians), INR 200 (Foreigners), free for children up to 15 years
For bibliophiles, the Anna Centenary Library is one of the must-visit places in Chennai. It is named after Dr. C N Annadurai, the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, whose 102nd birth anniversary marked the opening of the library to the public.
Spread over an expanse of 3.75 lakh sq. ft. area, the library is a treasure trove of books related to a wide variety of subjects. It also features a Braille section for the visually challenged, a children’s reading section, and a conference room.
The Kalakshetra Foundation is one of the best tourist places in Chennai to experience the classical performing and visual art forms of South India in their true rhythm and vigor. Founded by Rukmini Devi Arundale in 1936, the academy imparts education on Bharatanatyam, Carnatic Music, sculpture, pottery, and painting.
Kalakshetra organizes various performances and art exhibitions within its premises throughout the year. The Kalakshetra style of Bharatnatyam has achieved international acclaim and the academy welcomes foreign students from around the globe who wish to learn the nuances of Indian culture.
Further, the Kalakshetra style of dance is widely celebrated for its strict adherence to tradition and perfection in both Nritta (dance) and Natya (drama/expressions).
TWT Tip: The music and dance season in Chennai begins in December and continues till the end of January. During this time, renowned dancers from all over India come to Chennai and Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram Dance Festival) to showcase their art forms. You can watch these stunning performances in various dance auditoriums in Chennai such as The Music Academy, Sri Krishna Gana Sabha, Narada Gana Sabha, Bharatakalanjali, Rasika Ranjani Sabha, and Kalakshetra.
8. Cholamandal Artists’ Village
This is a one-of-its-kind residential artists’ village. The Cholamandal Artists’ Village features art galleries that display pieces by established and budding artists. It also includes a museum and an open-air theater for live demonstrations and performances.
9. The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology
The Madras Croc Bank was established in 1976 by famous conservationists Romulus Whitaker and Zai Whitaker. With immense efforts to save various endangered crocodile species in India, the bank now includes 15 crocodile species and 33 other reptile species.
The Crocodile Bank is one of Chennai’s famous places that is visited by thousands of visitors of different age groups. The reptile park also organizes various educational activities for children.
The crocodile bank also runs a reptile adoption program, a snakebite donation scheme, and a fun merchandise store called the Croc Shop.
Some other tourist attractions in Chennai that you can check out are Chennai Snake Park, B.M. Birla Planetarium, Guindy National Park, Valluvar Kottam, Gandhi Mandapam, and Thousand Lights Shia Mosque.
Best Food In Chennai
With the unbeatable crispiness of Chennai’s Dosas, and the lip-smacking taste of its Chettinad cuisine, Chennai’s food scene unravels variety and flavors at every corner of the city. Owing to the city’s Tamil Brahmin community, Chennai is home to many pure vegetarian restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. However, Chennai is also known for its immense love for Biriyani and almost every neighborhood has a Biriyani restaurant to call their own.
Here’s a list of Chennai’s best food joints that you can visit during your Chennai tour:
Book a 2-hour street food walking tour of Chennai on Get Your Guide!
Famous Non-Veg Restaurants In Chennai
Samco
Buhari Restaurant
Abid Restaurant
Zaitoon
Kumarakom
Dindigul Thalappakatti
Hotel Crescent
Ente Keralam
Junior Kuppanna
Kaaraikudi
Benjarong – Thai Restaurant
Bengali Fun Foods ( for authentic Bengali food in Chennai)
TWT Trivia: Chennai’s unwavering love for Biriyani is the reason behind the innumerable Biriyani restaurants and local stalls all over the city. From Midnight Biriyani to early morning Biriyani, this popular dish is available at all times of the day. What’s more interesting is that Chennai boasts 4 different flavorful preparations of Biriyani each hailing from various districts of Tamil Nadu — Ambur Biriyani, Chettinad Biriyani, Dindigul Biriyani, and Rawther Biriyani.
Best Cafes In Chennai
There are innumerable cafés in Chennai, especially in ECR, Anna Nagar, Nungambakkam, and Gopalapuram. Here’s a list of the 10 most popular ones known for their food, ambiance, and location.
An interesting fact for all sweet lovers visiting Chennai is that many of the city’s bakeries not only excel in Indian baked goodies, but are also masters in French-baked foods. You can try a variety of cakes and baked products like Tres Leches, Quiches, Croissants, Apple Pies, Eclairs, and many more at the following places:
The Old Madras Baking Company
Adyar Bakery
Winners Bakery
McRennett Cakes
French Loaf
Bread & Chocolate
Popular Food Courts In Chennai
Food courts that are open 24/7 are gradually popping up in Chennai. Here’s a list of our favorites:
Uptown Kathipara Urban Square
Kora Food Street
SPR Chennai Food Court
KC Food Street – Kandanchavadi
Shopping In Chennai
A trip to Chennai is incomplete without delving into the city’s vibrant shopping culture. Known for its exquisite gold jewelry and stunning collections of Silk sarees, here’s a list of the must-visit shopping destinations in Chennai:
T Nagar
T Nagar is Chennai’s main shopping hub. It has the biggest showrooms of most gold jewelry and clothing brands such as Tanishq, GRT Jewellers, Malabar Gold Jewellery, Kalyan Jewellers, Saravana Stores, Nalli, Hayagrivas and many more.
T Nagar also features an array of tailoring shops that excel in embroidery work. In fact, some shops deliver fully stitched blouses, and salwar kameez in just an hour!
The state government provides a designated parking area where you can park your vehicle and check out the place on foot. T Nagar also has some amazing restaurants, in case the shopping trip leaves you feeling hungry.
Sowcarpet
If you’re proud of your bargaining skills, then Sowcarpet is the ultimate shopping destination for you. Sowcarpet has hundreds of shops selling amazing fashionable sarees, salwar sets, bags, fancy jewelry, and more.
Also home to the largest Marwadi community in South India, Sowcarpet is the best place for mouth-watering street food. Check out the eateries in Mint Street like Kakada Ramprasad (chats, dhokla, jalebis, and other sweets), Anmol Lassiwala (Kesar Lassi), Mehta Bros Mithai Wala (Vada Pav), Meena Mithai Mandir (Ice Halwa) and many more.
Parry’s Corner
Parry’s Corner is the best place for shopping in Chennai if you’re looking for wholesale products at a pocket-friendly price. The place is lined with shops that sell just about everything from food ingredients, stationary and craft items, clothing, hardware, home accessories, electronic appliances, books, and so much more.
Mylapore
Preparing for a religious function or planning a budgeted saree shopping? Mylapore is the best place for shopping Pooja and dance items. Check out Vijaya Stores near Kapaleeshwarar Temple. They have an amazing collection of brass diyas, pots, large plates, conch shells, stick-on kolams, and more.
Shopping Malls In Chennai
Love branded wear? Check out the best shopping malls in Chennai. Lined with premium Indian and international clothing, cosmetics, and jewelry stores, these malls are a must-visit for an epic shopping experience:
Phoenix Marketcity
Express Avenue Mall
Aerohub East
Grand Square in Velachery
Best Boutiques & Handicrafts Stores In Chennai
Souvenir shopping in Chennai is done best in its boutiques and handicraft stores, where you can shop a variety of natural fabrics and handmade local craft items. Here are some of the best places to shop for local handcrafted specialties:
Central Cottage Industries Emporium at Nandanam
Cottage Arts Emporium at Mylapore
Earth Arts Emporium (government registered) at Spencer Plaza Mall
Amethyst (boutique) at Royapettah
Kalpa Druma at Gopalapuram
Poompuhar Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation at Anna Salai
Adventure Activities In Chennai
If you’re an adventure lover seeking some thrill, then fret not since Chennai has unlimited options for adventure activities. Here’s a list of the popular adventure zones frequently flocked by both locals and tourists:
Go Xtreme Adventures – Paintball, Archery, Zipline, Swimming, Body Zorbing, and more.
Airborne – A Trampoline Park.
The Royal Chitran (Chokhi Dhani) – Experience the unique culture of Rajasthan.
Surfing at Blue Flag Beach Kovalam.
Boating and Kayaking at Muttukadu Boat House (prices start from INR 130 per head to INR 1000 per boat.
Scuba Diving at Kovalam Beach near Taj Fisherman’s Cove.
Theme Parks In Chennai
If you’re traveling to Chennai with children, here’s a list of the best theme parks in the city for a fun time bonding with your kids:
VGP Universal Kingdom
VGP Marine Kingdom
MGM Dizzee World
Snow Kingdom
Queensland Amusement Park
TWT Tip: Looking for some offbeat things to do in Chennai? Go for a rejuvenating urban farm experienceby Throughlocals! Here, the local hosts will take you through their organic farming process, give you a sneak peek into their sustainable living methods, and offer you fresh farm produce. You can also enjoy a farm picnic and bond with the farm animals.
A day out amidst the tranquility of blue waters and the call of seagulls is a travel experience that nourishes the soul. So if you’re interested in exploring the ocean, Chennai offers several shore excursion options. Among many, Cordelia Cruises is one of the most preferred and highly rated cruise companies that offer luxury cruises for weekend getaways from Chennai.
You can also go on an adrenaline-pumping yacht trip organized by the Royal Madras Yacht Club. An hour’s ride on an 8-9 seater yacht is likely to cost you around INR 12,000 to INR 16,000. You can also book the same on Thrillophilia.
Private Sightseeing Tours in Chennai
Both government and local travel agencies organize travel itineraries for Chennai sightseeing tours. A guided tour can cost you anywhere from INR 3.5k to 15k, depending on the amenities and transport facilities provided. You can even book these tours through travel websites like GetYourGuideand Viator.
Best Hotels in Chennai
Some of the best luxury hotels in Chennai are ITC Grand Chola, Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, Trident Hotel Chennai, Hilton Chennai, Park Hyatt Chennai, The Westin Chennai Velachery, Hyatt Regency Chennai, Turyaa Chennai, Hotel Green Park, Radisson Blu Hotel GRT Chennai, Taj Connemara, Taj Wellington Mews, The Residency Towers, Ramada Plaza, The Leela Palace, and The Raintree, Anna Salai.
Chennai also has several budget and mid-range accommodations such as The Ambassador Pallava, Hotel Savera, Holiday Inn Express Chennai OMR Thoraipakkam, Citadines OMR, Novotel Chennai Sipcot, Fairfield by Marriott Chennai OMR, and Pine Tree Signature.
Reserve your stay at one of the top hotels in Chennai on Booking.com!
How To Commute In Chennai?
While buses, autos, and cabs (OLA and UBER mainly) are readily available, the local train (MRTS) is the fastest and cheapest way to travel in Chennai. The local train fare starts from just INR 5 and connects most parts of the city.
The Metro Rail is also a quick way to travel in Chennai. There’s a metro station located within the airport, and also one quite close to Chennai Central Railway Station.
Chennai also has self-drive car and two-wheeler rental services like Zoomcar, Sukuto, Ren Trip, and others, provided you have a valid driving license.
How To Reach Chennai?
To travel to Chennai, you can take a direct flight to Chennai International Airport or a train to Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M. G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station / Chennai Egmore Railway Station. There are also long-distance travel buses that connect Chennai to places like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mysore, Coimbatore, and Kerala.
We understand that most tourists are often in a rush and usually have limited time in hand. So, here’s a list of the best things to do in Chennai within 2 days:
Day 1
Wake up to a mesmerizing sunrise at Besant Nagar Beach/Elliot’s Beach.
Breathe in the fresh air during a leisurely morning stroll at Theosophical Society.
Try out a traditional breakfast of Ghee Podi Idlis, Masala Dosa, and Jigarthanda at The Murugan Idli Shop by Besant Nagar Beach.
Visit the ancient Ashtalakshmi Temple.
Admire the colossal Annai Velankanni Church, at Besant Nagar.
Check out Chennai’s seat of culture –– Kalakshetra Foundation, located in Thiruvanmiyur. Here, you can even purchase traditional handicrafts and sarees.
Next, head to the famous Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple in Thiruvanmiyur.
Plan your lunch at any of the beach-side restaurants/cafes at ECR. We recommend Bay 6, ECR for its amazing sea-view seating options, mouth watering food, and lively ambiance.
After lunch, explore South India’s rich culture at Cholamandal Artists’ Village and Dakshinachitra.
Plan a fun boat ride at Muttukadu Boat House, located about 3.6 km from Dakshinachitra.
If time permits, visit the VGP Universal Kingdom (amusement park) while heading back to the city. Apart from enjoying the rides, you can watch a captivating sunset at VGP Golden Beach.
For dinner, check out the night scenes at Besant Nagar Beach. The entire area comes to life with a variety of eateries, beach games, and pubs such as Based On A True Story (BOAT Restobar).
Day 2
Start your day early by witnessing the grand morning aarthi (prayer service) at Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore and marvel at the architecture of one of Chennai’s most revered temples.
Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the renowned Mylai Karpagambal Mess located close to the temple.
Take a quick look at Mylapore’s markets in case you wish to buy a traditional Pattu (silk) saree, handicrafts, pooja items, or jewelry.
Next, pay a visit to the gorgeous Ramakrishna Temple for a soul-searching experience.
Then head to one of Chennai’s biggest tourist attractions – the Santhome Cathedral Basilica.
Enjoy a marine drive while exploring the entire stretch of Marina Beach to the Memorials of Dr. M.G.R and Dr J. Jayalalitha.
Plan your lunch at one of Chennai’s famous vegetarian restaurants located near Marina Beach. We recommend trying the South Indian Thali which includes Rice, Appalam, Sambar, Poriyal, Kuzhambu, Rasam, Kesari, etc. You can also try the Variety Rice Thali, which includes Lemon Rice, Curd Rice, Sambar Sadam (Rice), and Puliyodharai (Tamarind Rice).
Relive historical moments at Fort St. George Museum.
On your way back, visit Royal Madras Yacht Club for a fun shore excursion. Their hourly yacht trips (INR 12,000-16,000) are a great way to explore the seas.
Go shopping at T Nagar or head to any of Chennai’s shopping malls to stack up on some souvenirs before completing your Chennai trip.
However, if you’re in Chennai during the dance season (December-January), we highly recommend heading to one of the auditoriums for a life-changing cultural experience.
Reserve an immersive private tour of Chennai on Viator!
TWT Summary
The unique blend of modernity and tradition infuses vitality into the daily life of Chennai (Madras). While keeping pace with the tech-edged society, Chennai does not forget to decorate its doorsteps with intricate Kolams (rangolis). The city also offers mouth-watering delicacies with age-old recipes handed down through generations.
Chennai, with its famous temples, churches, monuments, parks, eateries, malls, cultural performances, and of course its stunning beaches, ensures that every day is a celebration of life. So, pack your travel shoes and get ready to explore the vibrant city of Madras, which welcomes its visitors with a warm smile and a steaming cup of filter kaapi (coffee).
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Places To See In Chennai
1. What are the best things to do in Chennai (Madras) when traveling with children?
The most popular activities that you can enjoy in Chennai with your children are:
Go for a shore excursion at one of Chennai’s many beaches.
Visit amusement parks like VGP Universal Kingdom.
Know about the solar system at B.M. Birla Planetarium.
Enjoy a picnic amidst nature at Senmozhi Ponga (Chennai Botanical Garden).
Travel back in time with a visit to Chennai’s Government Museum.
Marvel at the ancient architecture of Chennai’s famous temples, churches, and mosques.
Go shopping in T Nagar or one of the shopping malls in Chennai such as Phoenix Market City.
Enjoy mouthwatering dishes like Dosa, Appam, Idiyappam, Kuzhi Paniyaram Falooda, Jigarthanda, and more at Chennai’s famous restaurants like Geetham Veg Restaurant, A2B, and others.
2. When is the best time to travel to Chennai?
The best time to visit Chennai is from September to November and again from January (during Pongal) to March before the onset of the scorching Summer. It is better to avoid traveling to Chennai during December, since the city experiences cyclonic weather conditions due to the winter monsoons.
3. What is the price of a Chennai tour package?
Since you can cover most tourist places in Chennai within 2 days, a Chennai tour package can be planned within INR 25,000, inclusive of accommodation and travel expenses. However, this may vary depending on your choice of transport and accommodation.
4. What are the famous street foods of Chennai?
Some of the best street foods in Chennai that you must try are a wide range of Dosa varieties (plain, masala, ghee roast, paper roast, rawa, kal, ghee podi, onion, paneer), Biriyani (with Basmati rice and Seeraga Samba rice), Barota, Idli, Idiyappam, Chats, Dahi Vada, Milagai Bhajji, Bonda, and Falooda.
5. How can I travel from Chennai International Airport to my hotel in Chennai?
If your hotel is located near a metro railway station, then you can easily take a metro from the Airport Metro station. Other ways to commute within Chennai are OLA or UBER cabs or auto. However, it is safe to check the route on Google Maps while traveling in cabs and autos and discuss the fare beforehand to avoid inconvenience.
6. What are the main railway stations in Chennai?
The three main railway stations in Chennai are Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M. G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station, Chennai Egmore Railway Station, and Tambaram Railway Station.
Traveling to the mountains has been an annual ritual for Sayantani and her family since her childhood. Her first international trip was in 2011 to the picturesque Yamaguchi prefecture of Japan, through a student exchange program conducted by the Govt. of Japan. A post-graduate in English Literature from the University of Calcutta, Sayantani also holds a diploma in Japanese from Rabindra Bharati University. Over her 7-year career span, she has written over 120 articles on beauty, lifestyle, travel and food for various online platforms. Read More
4 thoughts on “Chennai Sightseeing Guide: 29 Tourist Attractions, Foods To Try, Shopping, & Activities”
Very nicely written article for in and around Chennai. All the information has been covered. Don’t feel any thing is left out which is needed for Travelers from outside and even for people of Chennai.
Well done.
Hey! I’ve been staying in Chennai for the past 5 years but never knew about the Blue Flag Beach or the Ramakrishna Math. Thanks a lot for covering such tourist attractions.
4 thoughts on “Chennai Sightseeing Guide: 29 Tourist Attractions, Foods To Try, Shopping, & Activities”
Very nicely written article for in and around Chennai. All the information has been covered. Don’t feel any thing is left out which is needed for Travelers from outside and even for people of Chennai.
Well done.
Thank you very much for taking the time to leave your valuable feedback on our content. 🙂
Hey! I’ve been staying in Chennai for the past 5 years but never knew about the Blue Flag Beach or the Ramakrishna Math. Thanks a lot for covering such tourist attractions.
Thank you very much for taking the time to leave your valuable feedback on our content. 🙂