History. Culture. Architecture. Family-friendly activities. And gorgeous hotels. Chennai has it all.
We love Chennai. The capital of Tamil Nadu has so many treasures waiting to be discovered. You can hit the beach, wander around iconic temples and shop till you drop. Let’s discover the top attractions in Chennai.
Discovering the city of Chennai
A unique trip to remember
Chennai is a real treasure trove of fascinating landmarks and unique attractions. Plus, there’s the food and the shopping too. The best time to visit is between October and February as you’ll miss the monsoon season and avoid the scorching summer weather. Getting around the city is easy with plenty to see as you travel around. Public transport is good and an auto-rickshaw is always fun.
What to see in Chennai
Top tourist attractions in Chennai
Immerse yourself in history, admire beautiful architecture, explore diverse ecosystems, and discover the city’s culture.
Marina Beach
Sand and statues
Famous for being one of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach is one of Chennai’s top attractions. The sunsets and sunrises here are a sight to behold. You’ll see several statues on the sand too, including The Victory of Labor statue and one of Mahatma Gandhi. The beach’s old lighthouse is always worth a wander, and the street food is not to be missed.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
A cultural experience
This historic Hindu temple is an icon of Chennai. Dedicated to Shiva, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a colourful masterpiece and boasts impressive Dravidian architecture. Marvel at the temple’s intricate carvings, see the water tank in the temple courtyard and admire the grand ‘gopuram’ entrance tower. Thought to be one of Chennai’s oldest temples, this is a must-see during your visit.
Fort St. George
History and artefacts
India’s first English fortress, Fort St. George is now home to a museum with artefacts from the British Raj period. Within the fort is St. Mary’s Church which was completed in 1680 and is the oldest surviving British church in India. Don’t miss the museum’s portrait gallery too.
Government Museum
A fascinating day out
One of the oldest museums in India, the Government Museum (or the Madras Museum) is a fascinating attraction. Step inside to discover its rich collections showcasing human history and culture. Museum highlights include the Bronze Gallery, home to 7th century bronzes, the National Art Gallery, and the Amaravathi Gallery.
Guindy National Park
A joy for nature enthusiasts
This unique national park is located within the city limits of Chennai. Guindy National Park boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, including forest, scrubland, and marsh, with many plant and animal species calling it home. Bring the kids and you can explore everything the park has to offer in a couple of hours.
Chennai’s unique attractions
Cathedrals, beaches and an impressive zoo
As well as Chennai’s most popular attractions, the city is home to lesser-known options that are well worth discovering too. Check out Chennai’s quietest beach, find options for children, and spend some time in one of the best shopping spots.
San Thome Cathedral
An architectural delight
A historical Roman Catholic minor basilica built over the tomb of Saint Thomas, San Thome Cathedral boasts impressive neo-Gothic architecture and is located close to the beach. The cathedral’s museum is home to fascinating artefacts related to the saint.
Mylapore
Elliot’s Beach
Chennai’s quietest beach
Less crowded than Marina Beach, Elliot’s Beach is also known as Edward Elliot’s Beach, Besant Nagar Beach, or the Bessie. Enjoy serene walks along the clean, pristine sand and go swimming in the Bay of Bengal.
Besant Nagar
Cultural Fact File
Chennai is known for its classical dance form, Bharatanatyam
The city hosts the annual Madras Music Season
Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu
Valluvar Kottam
A striking memorial
Valluvar Kottam is a historical monument dedicated to the well-known intellectual poet, philosopher and saint, Thiruvalluvar. Built in the 1970s, the monument resembles a temple chariot and provides a place for people to pay their respects.
Valluvar Kottam High Rd
Parthasarathy
A unique attraction
Parthasarathy Temple is a Hindu Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Vishnu. The temple boasts idols of three forms of Vishnu: Narasimha, Rama, and Krishna and uniquely shows him with a large moustache.
Triplicane
Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Animals and nature
Located around 30km from the centre of Chennai, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (or Vandalur Zoo) is one of the largest zoological parks in India. Home to around 1,500 animal species, it’s a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and families with children.
Vandalur
Phoenix Market City
Shopping and cinema
Covering one million square feet, Phoenix Market City is the second largest mall in Chennai and always an essential spot for some retail therapy. It’s also home to Chennai’s only IMAX cinema, ideal for some time away from sightseeing with the latest films.
Velachery
Great hotels in Chennai
Discover fantastic accommodation options
Chennai is home to so many hotels with something for every budget. Its 5* luxury hotels stand out and will help make your trip extra special, whether you treat yourself to a one-night stay or spend your whole visit there. Enjoy relaxing pools, high-end fitness centres, and delicious dining
ITC Grand Chola
Mount Road – 5* Luxury
The 5* ITC Grand Chola is a must-stay hotel in Chennai. Boasting 10 dining options, a fitness centre, and an outdoor swimming pool, this is the perfect place to eat, unwind, and relax after a day of exploring.
Taj Coromandel
Nungambakkam – A stunning swimming pool
Want to combine exploring attractions with relaxing around a swimming pool? The Taj Coromandel is the place to do it. Its landscaped outdoor pool offers serenity and calm, and there’s a fitness centre too.
The Leela Palace
Leela Palace Rd – Simply beautiful
The stunning Leela Palace in Chennai is set across 4.8 acres and has elegant, luxurious rooms alongside an outdoor pool and fitness facilities. Lush and peaceful, this hotel provides a retreat from the bustling city centre.
Park Hyatt Chennai
Guindy – Unrivalled panoramas
Love amazing views? Look no further than the gorgeous Park Hyatt Chennai. This hotel has a rooftop infinity pool offering panoramas of the city and the Guindy Forest Reserve. There’s also a spa, fitness centre, restaurant, and beautiful rooms.
Average prices in Chennai
On your trip to Chennai, expect to pay:
Entry ticket to attractions: ₹10-₹100
Traditional South Indian meal: ₹200-₹500
Car hire (per day): ₹1500-₹3000
Taxi ride (within the city): ₹150-₹500
Souvenirs: ₹100-₹2000
Chennai has plenty of cultural attractions, striking architecture, historic landmarks, and family-friendly activities. It’s time to book your trip.
Thinking of travelling to Chennai? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
