Chennai
( Tamil Nadu )
Introduction
Chennai — the Gateway to South India — is a vibrant coastal city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, peaceful beaches, classical music, and rich Tamil culture blend beautifully.
Known for its stunning Marina Beach, Dravidian temples like Kapaleeshwarar, iconic churches, Bharatanatyam dance, filter coffee, and delicious South Indian food, Chennai is a cultural powerhouse layered with modern charm.
From the bustling streets of Mylapore, the serene shores of Besant Nagar, lively markets, museums, classical concerts, to the IT corridors and nightlife — Chennai offers history, spirituality, art, cuisine, and sea breeze in one perfect destination
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Tamil Nadu, South India |
| Best Time to Visit | November–February |
| Ideal Duration | 2–4 Days |
| Famous For | Beaches, temples, filter coffee, culture |
| Major Airport | Chennai International Airport |
| Railway Stations | Chennai Central, Egmore |
| Local Transport | Metro, buses, autos, taxis |
| Language | Tamil, English |
| Currency | Indian Rupees |
City Overview
Chennai is one of India’s oldest and most culturally rich metro cities. It is divided into:
South Chennai
Temples, beaches, residential zones & IT parks.
Central Chennai
Monuments, museums, markets, and major stations.
North Chennai
Port area, heritage markets & local culture.
Chennai is calm, traditional, soulful, and filled with coastal beauty.
Top 11 Attractions in Chennai
1. Marina Beach
Famous For: Sunrise & long coastline
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Second-longest urban beach in the world with stunning sunrises & local snacks.
Tips:
• Visit early morning
2. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Famous For: Dravidian architecture
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
A historic Shiva temple located in Mylapore, known for colorful towers & rituals.
Tips:
• Dress modestly
3. San Thome Basilica
Famous For: Gothic church
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Expanded Description:
Built over the tomb of St. Thomas — one of the 12 apostles of Jesus.
Tips:
• Photography allowed outside
4. Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar)
Famous For: Clean, peaceful environment
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
A calm beach perfect for couples, families, cafés & evening walks.
Tips:
• Best for sunset
5. Government Museum (Egmore Museum)
Famous For: Ancient artifacts
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (Closed Friday)
Expanded Description:
Bronze sculptures, archaeological finds & South Indian art.
Tips:
• Allocate 2–3 hours
6. Valluvar Kottam
Famous For: Monument to poet Thiruvalluvar
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Expanded Description:
Modern architecture with inscriptions from the Tamil classic, Thirukkural.
Tips:
• Good for cultural photography
7. Guindy National Park
Famous For: Forest inside the city
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Expanded Description:
Deer, blackbucks, birds & nature trails in a natural reserve.
Tips:
• Weekdays are less crowded
8. Fort St. George
Famous For: British-era fort
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Fri)
Expanded Description:
First British fortress in India with museums & colonial architecture.
Tips:
• Best for history lovers
9. Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)
Famous For: Wildlife & safari
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Tue)
Expanded Description:
One of India’s largest zoos with safari trips, reptile houses & birds.
Tips:
• Take the battery car if tired
10. Mahabalipuram (Near Chennai)
Famous For: UNESCO stone temples
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance & rock-cut architecture just 50 km away.
Tips:
• Combine with East Coast Road drive
11. Pondy Bazaar & T. Nagar Markets
Famous For: Shopping
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Expanded Description:
Famous for silk sarees, jewelry, handicrafts & local street markets.
Tips:
• Bargain politely
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. South Indian Classics
Murugan Idli Shop
Sangeetha Veg Restaurant
Ratna Café
2. Beachside Cafés
Sunset Grill
Elliot’s Café Lineup
3. Filter Coffee Spots
Kumbakonam Degree Coffee
Mylapore Coffee Houses
How to Reach
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Beach + Heritage
Marina Beach (sunrise)
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
San Thome Basilica
Mylapore Cultural Walk
Day 2: Museums + Shopping
Government Museum
Valluvar Kottam
T. Nagar Shopping
Elliot’s Beach (evening)
Day 3: Nature + Nearby Trip
Guindy National Park
Vandalur Zoo
Mahabalipuram (evening return)
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–3000/night |
| Food | 200–600/day |
| Local Travel | 150–400/day |
| Entry Tickets | ₹10 – ₹200 |
| Shopping | Optional |
Hidden Gems of Chennai
1. Broken Bridge (Adyar)
Scenic sunrise point near the river mouth.
2. Semmozhi Poonga
Beautiful botanical garden.
3. Kalakshetra Foundation
Classical arts & traditional dance school.