8 Tourist Spots In Chennai Everyone Must-Visit At Least Once!

Head to one of the best beaches in Chennai to escape the scorching heat during the summers or enjoy the cool breeze during the winters. Surrounded by the Bay of Bengal, Marina Beach is India’s longest beach, so why miss this opportunity while you're in the city? Doesn’t matter if you visit in the morning or evening, watching both the sunrise and the sunset feels equally magical. Take a walk along the beach or dip your feet in the water. You will be able to find stalls selling cute imitation jewellery, shells and souvenirs. But the best part is the lip smacking seafood that is made on the spot at the shore. While you're in the area, explore nearby attractions such as the Vivekananda House and the Sri Parthasathy Swamy Temple.

The name DakshinaChitra translates to 'A Picture Of The South', which is a fantastic history museum and hidden gem located in the City. With 18 exquisitely crafted houses, DakshinaChitra showcases the rich and diverse culture, architecture, handicrafts and lifestyle of the four states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka with an impressive collection of more than 4,000 artefacts under one roof. It’s like a small road trip across all four states of South-India under one roof. DakshinaChitra provides an educational retreat in which you can learn more about the rich heritage of south India. Don’t forget to visit nearby attractions such as Kapaleeswarar temple, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Santhome Church among others.

The Egmore government museum is a must-visit if you enjoy viewing historical artefacts. This museum is well-known for its sizable collection of some of the best contemporary and ancient South Indian bronzes from the 10th to the 13th centuries. The area's rich cultural past is on display here and the Amaravathi Gallery is one of its highlights. Buddha's life is vividly portrayed in marble sculptures in this gallery that date back to the second century AD. This museum will provide you with a wealth of information for both adults and children regardless of your level of interest in history. Connemara Public Library, Chetpet Ecopark, Valuvar Kottam, Anna Memorial and Dr MGR Memorial are a few neighbouring attractions.

A must-see in Chennai for all architecture buffs is the Santhome Cathedral Basilica. Built by Portuguese explorers in the sixteenth century this neo-gothic cathedral has great historical significance due to its location atop the tomb of Saint Thomas, one of Jesus' twelve apostles. The tombs of Christ's original disciples are located in just three churches worldwide making this one of a kind. The Pope elevated it to the status of a basilica in 1956. Entering the church will take you to a centuries-long historical journey. Underneath the opulent white edifice is the last resting place of Saint Thomas who is considered the patron saint of Christianity in India due to his significant contribution to the spread of the faith throughout Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Saint Thomas's distinguished legacy and the church’s extensive history are revealed through the relics and artefacts on display in the museum. Based on the legend that Saint Thomas died atop St. Thomas Mount after preaching along the Malabar Coast. His remains are now housed beneath the Santhome Church which attracts pilgrims, particularly from the Syrian Christian community. Other attractions like Marina Beach, Chennai Marina Lighthouse and Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Thirukovil are all close to the Santhome Cathedral Basilica.

T. Nagar is a busy street in Chennai famous for its shopping district. It was originally known as ‘Thyagaraya Nagar’ after the Justice Party leader Sir P.Theagaraya Chetty. Built between 1923 and 1925 during the Madras Presidency under the name of ‘Raja of Panagal’, this shopping hub houses a large number of stores that cater to all kinds of needs, from textiles, jewellery, electronics, homeware, etc. Pondy Bazaar is one of the most popular shopping streets in T. Nagar, offering all kinds of clothes, shoes, cosmetics and traditional Indian garments. Ranganathan Street is another one of the highlights in the same area which has all kinds of affordable clothes, accessories and electronics. In addition to its shopping allure, T. Nagar also provides a plethora of food options. Numerous restaurants, cafes and street joints all over serve South Indian delicacies as well as various culinary delights.

Take a rejuvenating one-day trip to Mahabalipuram, a heritage site renowned for its exquisite temples and historical artefacts to escape the bustle of Chennai. Situated roughly 100 kilometres from the city. This World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram is acknowledged by UNESCO and provides a display of the region's rich architectural heritage with it temple ruins. The cultural display that enhances the appeal of this historic site is the Mamallapuram Dance Festival which is not to be missed. The Shore Temple named for the seven pagodas and devoted to Lord Shiva is one of the must-see sights. Check out Krishnas Butterball a huge natural rock on a hillside that appears to be defying gravity. Discover the Sculpture Museum which is well-known for its magnificent assortment of paintings and sculptures. Other than sightseeing there are many other things to do such as cycling along beautiful scenic routes, getting involved in traditional activities of the village like grinding rice and masala as well as making elaborate drawings of Rangoli or Kolam.

A famous landmark that is a must-see in Chennai this architectural wonder was opened for the public in 1976. This monument pays tribute to the renowned Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar and resembles a temple chariot. Thiruvalluvar is regarded as one of the greatest Tamil scholars, this landmark honours his contributions and is an important piece of history. Visitors marvel at the 133 chapters of his highly regarded work. This stunning landmark is enjoyed by both tourists and locals not just those who are interested in literature and history. With taxis and buses easily accessible from all over the city Valluvar Kottam is easily accessible from its handy location at the intersection of Kodambakkam High Road and Village Road. Valluvar Kottam's appeal is further enhanced by neighboring attractions like the Birla Planetarium Semmozhi Poonga Botanical Garden Marina Beach and Vivekanandar Illam Museum.

With a long history and deep religious significance, the Kapaleeswarar Temple is a historical architectural wonder located in Mylapore. One of Chennai's oldest buildings this temple was built to honour Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpagambal. Its 37-meter-tall gopuram or gateway greets pilgrims. The temple's name according to legend comes from the story of Goddess Karpagambal who came here to worship Lord Shiva after changing into a peahen to break her curse. Legends of supernatural events abound. Two such stories are Lord Shiva teaching Lord Brahma humility which led to Lord Brahma being dubbed Kapaleeswarar which means lord of the skull and Lord Muruga visiting before a very important battle. With vibrant gopurams adorning its entrances the temple architecture while not the original displays magnificent Dravidian artistry. Shrine to several gods among them the highly revered self-manifested Swayambhu Lingam are located within its premises. Devotees travel from far and wide to the temple to celebrate important holidays like Brahmotsavam and Maha Shivaratri. The Kapaleeswarar Temple is a timeless representation of reverence and devotion because of its rich heritage and spiritual atmosphere.