Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is one of India's major industrial, commercial, and cultural hubs. It was formerly known as Madras and is a city rich in history and heritage. Chennai is home to numerous industries that play a vital role in the nation's economic growth. The city also offers a variety of scenic spots and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

The ideal time to visit Chennai is between October and February, when the weather is more pleasant. During these months, you can explore the city comfortably without the intense heat of the summer.

Chennai is easily accessible by air, train, or bus. Chennai International Airport is just 7 kilometers from the city center. The city has two main railway stations: Chennai Central, the largest, which connects to major cities and many smaller towns across India, and Chennai Egmore, which primarily serves destinations within Tamil Nadu. Additionally, the Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminal (CMBT), one of Asia's largest bus stations, is well connected to major cities across Tamil Nadu.

Top Places to Visit in Chennai

Marina Beach:

4 kms from Chennai Central Railway station. One of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach is a popular spot for leisure walks, picnics, and enjoying the sunset. It also features several statues and memorials along the promenade. You can also visit the lighthouse nearby, showing a stunning view of Marina beach and Chennai City from top.

Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach) :

14 Kms from Chennai Central Railway station. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Besant Nagar, it's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a quieter alternative to the bustling Marina Beach. One of the notable landmarks on Elliot's Beach is the Karl Schmidt Memorial, built in memory of a Dutch sailor who drowned while saving a life in 1930. The memorial stands as a reminder of bravery and is a popular meeting point.

Fort St. George:

3 kms from Chennai Central Railway station. Built by the British East India Company in 1644 along the shores of Bay of Bengal, this fort is now a historical site with a museum showcasing artifacts from the colonial period. The fort complex includes St. Mary's Church, one of the oldest Anglican churches in India.

Entry Fee:25 Rs Indian | 300 Rs Foreigners

Time : 9 Am to 5 Pm . Friday Closed.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple:

9 kms from Chennai Central Railway station. A significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its Dravidian architecture and vibrant gopuram (tower).

No entry fee

Time : 5 AM – 12:30 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM

Government Museum:

3 kms from Chennai Central Railway station. This museum houses a collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, coins, and a notable collection of South Indian bronze sculptures. The entire collection of the museum is spread across six buildings and 40+ galleries. Besides the impressive museum galleries, you can also visit the National Art Gallery and a children’s museum in the Government Museum complex.

Entry fee : Rs 15 Indians | Rs 250 Foreigners

Time : 10:30 am – 6:30 pm . Friday Closed.

Santhome Cathedral Basilica:

8 kms from Chennai Central Railway station. A neo-Gothic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, it is an important Christian pilgrimage site. The museum houses the spear or the lance head that was used to kill St Thomas, the great apostle’s fingerprint, an Episcopal chair, two postage stamps, inscriptions of his deeds on stones, the remains of his bones and wall paintings portraying St Thomas’s life and death.

No Entry Fee

Time : 6 Am to 9 Pm .

Ashtalakshmi Temple:

15 Kms from Chennai Central Railway station. Dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, this temple is known for its architectural beauty and serene environment. It is dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth, prosperity, and well-being. There is a marvelous view of the Bay of Bengal from here as well.

No Entry Fee

Time: 06.30 AM - 12.00 PM and 04.00 PM – 08.30 PM

Friday/Saturday/Sunday – 06.30 AM – 01.00 PM

Sri Ramakrishna Math:

Sri Ramakrishna Math in Chennai is a spiritual and cultural center dedicated to the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a revered 19th-century mystic and saint, as well as his disciples, including Swami Vivekananda.

No Entry Fee

Time: 5 AM – 11.45 AM and 3 PM – 9 PM

Vivekananda House Heritage Museum:

This historic building is famous for being the place where Swami Vivekananda stayed after his return from the West in 1897. The building, originally known as Ice House, was constructed in the 19th century to store ice imported from the United States. The museum showcases exhibits related to Swami Vivekananda’s life, teachings, and his contributions to Indian philosophy. The multimedia presentations, photographs, and artifacts in the museum give visitors insight into his travels, spiritual journey, and his message to the world.

Entry Fee : 150 Rs

Time: 10 AM – 12.30 Pm and 3 PM – 7.15 PM . Monday Closed.

Guindy National Park:

12 Kms from Chennai Central Railway station. A protected area within the city, offering a glimpse into Chennai’s natural environment with its variety of flora and fauna. It is one of the smallest national parks in India and is located entirely within the city, making it a rare urban wildlife sanctuary. A childrens park and snake park can be seen adjacent to the National park.

Time : 9 am to 5:30 pm . Tuesdays closed.

Entry Fee : Rs 20

Chennai Rail Museum:

10 Kms from Chennai Central Railway station. Showcasing the history of Indian Railways with vintage locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia.

Time : 10 AM to 4:30 PM . Monday closed.

Entry Fee : Rs 50