Top 9 Places to Visit in Chennai

A vibrant coastal city in southern India, Chennai is a blend of rich traditions and modernity. The city is known for its beaches, ancient temples, and delicious south Indian cuisine. The capital city of Tamil Nadu is a combination of historical charm and rising urban landscape.

Marina Beach

Marina, the world’s second largest beach spread across 13 kilometers, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chennai. Tourists can explore horse riding, the light house, street food, and statues of prominent Indian personalities that are built near the beach.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

The ancient Hindu temple is an architectural marvel known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and colourful 120-feet gateway tower (gopuram). Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was built around the 7th century. Tourists can visit the temple for a spiritual experience.

Government Museum

The museum, located in Egmore , has a fascinating collection of art, archaeology, numismatics, and a notable collection of South Indian bronze sculptures. It is one of the best places to visit for art enthusiasts.

San Thome Church

The church, built by the Portuguese in 1523 AD over the tomb of Thomas the Apostle, is a minor basilica of the Catholic church. The structure was later renovated according to neo-Gothic designs by the British in the late 19th century. Rebuilt with pristine white stone, the church’s magnificent architecture is breathtaking and worth visiting.

Besant Nagar Beach

Another prominent beach in Chennai is Elliot’s beach, or the Besant Nagar beach located in the Besant Nagar neighbourhood in Chennai. There are several game areas and food courts on the way to the beach. The spot is popular among the tourists and locals for pleasant evening walks and street food.

Dakshina Chitra

Situated on the outskirts of Chennai (25 kilometers), Dakshina Chitra is known for displaying South India's culture and traditions all under one roof. Dakshina Chitra, which translates to ‘picture of the south’, is a center where all traditions and culture related to the four states in southern India are put on display. Spread around 10 acres, tourists can visit the museum and try glass blowing, pottery, and also traditional games.

VGP Universal Kingdom

With over 50 rides, VGP Universal Kingdom is one of the best tourist spots for children and adults. The Kingdom also has access to a private white sand beach, where the tourists can spend a serene evening after exploring the rides. There are also several food courts and multicuisine restaurants.

Arulmigu Thiruvallikeni Parthasarathy Temple

Located close to Marina beach, the temple is considered an architectural marvel for its intricate pyramid-shaped dome (gopuram). Built in the 8th century, the temple is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Chennai.

Thiruvanmiyur Beach

Located in the Thiruvanmiyur neighbourhood, the Thiruvanmiyur beach is known for its serene, pleasant, and less-crowded atmosphere. The mornings are the best time to visit this beach to witness the sunrise. The beach has an attached street food lane, where the tourists can spend a pleasant evening.

Besides the beaches and temples, tourists can also explore the streets of T.Nagar and Mylapore to shop for traditional sarees, jewellery, and artifacts. These bustling streets of Chennai are worth visiting for shopaholics.

FAQs on Top Places to Visit in Chennai

  • What are a few tourist activities available at Marina beach?

    Tourists can try horse riding, visit the lighthouse, and explore the street food at Marina beach.  

  • Where can I watch sunrise by the beach in Chennai?

    Thiruvanmiyur beach in the Thiruvanmiyur neighbourhood in Chennai is the best destination to witness the sunrise by the beach. 

  • How far is Dakshina Chitra from Chennai?

    Dakshina Chitra is located 25 kilometers from Chennai.  

  • What are the timings of Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Chennai?

    The temple opens at 5:00 a.m. and closes at 12:30 p.m. in the afternoon. The temple then reopens at 4:00 p.m. in the evening and closes by 8:00 p.m.  

  • What are a few beaches that can be explored by tourists visiting Chennai?

    Marina beach, Besant Nagar beach, and Thiruvanmiyur beach are a few beaches that can be explored by tourists visiting Chennai.  

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