1. Mahabalipuram World Heritage Site
2. Fort St. George
3. Kapaleeswarar Temple
4. Government Museum Chennai
5. Marina Beach
6. San Thome Cathedral
7. Arignar Anna Zoological Park
8. Birla Planetarium
9. Sri Parthasarathy Temple
10. The Theosophical Society

Top Tourist Places to Visit in Chennai

Mahabalipuram World Heritage Site

Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the Bay of Bengal coast in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its rock-cut temples, cave sanctuaries, and monolithic structures, which date back to the 7th and 8th centuries. The most famous monuments include the Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Pancha Pandava Rathas, and the Arjuna’s Penance bas-relief.

Fort St. George

Fort St. George is a historic fort and administrative center located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It was built by the British East India Company in 1644 and is one of the oldest surviving British forts in India. The fort served as the first settlement of the British in India and played a key role in the establishment of British rule in India. Today, the fort is home to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and Secretariat, as well as several museums, including the Fort Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Chennai and the British Raj.

Kapaleeswarar Temple

Kapaleeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the oldest and most famous temples in the city and is considered to be one of the largest temple complexes in South India. The temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries.

Government Museum Chennai

Government Museum Chennai, also known as the Chennai Government Museum, is a multi-disciplinary museum located in the heart of the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Established in 1851, it is one of the oldest museums in India and is considered to be one of the largest museums in the country. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, including archaeology, anthropology, numismatics, botany, zoology, geology, and modern art.

Marina Beach

Marina Beach is a natural urban beach located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, along the Bay of Bengal. It is one of the longest beaches in the world and is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. The beach is famous for its scenic beauty, as well as its iconic landmarks, including the Light House, the Triumphal Arch, and the Mahatma Gandhi statue.

San Thome Cathedral

San Thome Cathedral is a Roman Catholic basilica located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It was originally built as a church in the 16th century and was later reconstructed as a cathedral in the 19th century. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, who is believed to have preached in India and been martyred in the city of Chennai.

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Arignar Anna Zoological Park, also known as the Vandalur Zoo, is a zoological garden located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Established in 1855, it is the first public zoo in India and one of the largest zoological parks in South Asia. The zoo covers an area of over 1,300 acres and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

Birla Planetarium

Birla Planetarium is a large, state-of-the-art planetarium located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the largest planetariums in Asia and is a popular tourist destination for those interested in astronomy and space science. The planetarium features a large dome-shaped theater, where visitors can enjoy immersive, full-dome shows that simulate the night sky and explore the wonders of the universe.

Sri Parthasarathy Temple

Sri Parthasarathy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the oldest temples in the city, believed to have been built in the 8th century AD. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, including its towering gopurams, ornate pillars, and intricate carvings.

The Theosophical Society

The Theosophical Society is a spiritual organization founded in the United States in 1875 with the aim of promoting the study of comparative religion, philosophy, and science. The society has its headquarters in Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, and has branches in many countries around the world.

5 days itinerary for Chennai Trip

Here is a sample 5-day itinerary for a trip to Chennai:

Day 1:

• Visit Fort St. George, the oldest British fort in India.
• Visit the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and manuscripts.
• Visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Day 2:

• Visit the San Thome Cathedral, a historic Roman Catholic basilica dedicated to St. Thomas.
• Take a stroll along Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world.
• Visit the Mahabalipuram World Heritage Site, a group of ancient temples and rock-cut monuments along the Bay of Bengal.

Day 3:

• Visit the Birla Planetarium, a large, state-of-the-art planetarium that offers full-dome shows and a science museum.
• Visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoological parks in South Asia.
• Visit Sri Parthasarathy Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Day 4:

• Visit the Theosophical Society, a spiritual organization that promotes the study of comparative religion, philosophy, and science.
• Take a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock-cut temples and monuments.

Day 5:

• Explore the local markets and street food of Chennai.
• Visit the Anna Centenary Library, one of the largest libraries in Asia.
• Take a relaxing yoga or meditation class at a local studio.

3 days itinerary for Chennai Trip

Here is a sample 3-day itinerary for a trip to Chennai:

Day 1:

• Visit Fort St. George, the oldest British fort in India.
• Visit the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and manuscripts.
• Take a stroll along Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world.

Day 2:

• Visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Visit the San Thome Cathedral, a historic Roman Catholic basilica dedicated to St. Thomas.
• Visit the Birla Planetarium, a large, state-of-the-art planetarium that offers full-dome shows and a science museum.

Day 3:

• Visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoological parks in South Asia.
• Take a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock-cut temples and monuments.
• Visit Sri Parthasarathy Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Popular Historical places to visit in Chennai

Here are some of the popular historical places to visit in Chennai:

Fort St. George:

The oldest British fort in India was built in 1644. It now serves as the legislative assembly of the state of Tamil Nadu.

Government Museum:

One of the oldest museums in India, it houses a vast collection of art and artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and manuscripts.

Kapaleeswarar Temple:

A beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

San Thome Cathedral:

A historic Roman Catholic basilica dedicated to St. Thomas, one of the apostles of Jesus.

Mahabalipuram World Heritage Site:

A group of ancient temples and rock-cut monuments along the Bay of Bengal was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sri Parthasarathy Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Top Temples to visit in Chennai

Here are some of the top temples to visit in Chennai:

Kapaleeswarar Temple:

A beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Sri Parthasarathy Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Ashtalakshmi Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to the eight forms of the goddess Lakshmi, known for its beautiful sculptures and intricate carvings.

Sri Ramakrishna Math:

A spiritual organization founded by Sri Ramakrishna, dedicated to the teachings of Hinduism.

Mahalakshmi Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Mahalakshmi, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Annai Velankanni Church:

A Roman Catholic church dedicated to the Virgin Mary is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.

Best street foods corner in Chennai

Chennai is known for its delicious street food, and there are many street food corners in the city that are popular among locals and visitors alike. Some of the best street food corners in Chennai include:

Kureshi Biryani:

A popular street food stall known for its delicious biryani, a popular rice dish made with spices and meat.

Saravana Bhavan:

A popular chain of South Indian restaurants, known for its delicious dosas, idlis, and other South Indian specialties.

Anjappar Chettinad:

A popular chain of South Indian restaurants, known for its spicy and flavorful Chettinad cuisine.

Amma Mess:

A popular street food stall is known for its delicious South Indian vegetarian dishes, such as sambar, rasam, and curd rice.

Jai Hind Lunch Home:

A popular street food stall is known for its delicious South Indian vegetarian dishes, such as masala dosa, vada, and sambar.

Best beaches to visit in Chennai

Chennai is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many beaches to visit in the city. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in Chennai:

Marina Beach:

The largest natural urban beach in India, known for its long promenade, wide sandy beach, and stunning sunsets.

Elliot’s Beach:

A popular beach located in the neighborhood of Besant Nagar, known for its clean sand and calm waters.

Mahabalipuram Beach:

A stunning beach located near the World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, known for its beautiful rock formations and stunning sunsets.

Covelong Beach:

A beautiful beach located near the town of Kanchipuram, known for its calm waters and scenic beauty.

Muttukadu Beach:

A popular beach located near the town of Kanchipuram, known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for water sports.

Best street foods to have in Chennai

Chennai is known for its delicious street food, and there are many street foods to try in the city. Here are some of the best street foods to have in Chennai:

Dosas:

Thin, crispy pancakes made from fermented batter of rice and urad dal, served with sambar and chutneys.

Idlis:

Steamed rice cakes made from fermented batter of rice and urad dal, often served with sambar and chutneys.

Vadas:

Deep-fried doughnuts made from lentil flour, often served with coconut chutney.

Samosas:

Triangular-shaped pastry filled with spiced vegetables or meat, deep-fried, and served with chutney.

Biryani:

A popular rice dish made with spices and meat often served with raita and hard-boiled eggs.

Paniyaram:

Fermented rice batter cakes, steamed in a special pan, and served with chutney.

Kulfi:

A popular Indian ice cream, made with condensed milk and flavored with cardamom, rosewater, saffron, or fruit.

Famous market in Chennai for shopping

Chennai is a great place for shopping, and there are many markets to explore in the city. Here are some of the most famous markets in Chennai for shopping:

T. Nagar:

One of the busiest shopping districts in Chennai, known for its narrow, crowded streets lined with shops selling a variety of goods, from textiles to jewelry.

George Town:

The historic heart of Chennai, is known for its wholesale markets and shops selling everything from spices to electronics.

Ranganathan Street:

A busy shopping street in T. Nagar, known for its many shops selling textiles, shoes, and other goods.

Pondy Bazaar:

A busy shopping street in T. Nagar, known for its many shops selling jewelry, cosmetics, and other goods.

Mylapore:

A historic neighborhood in Chennai, known for its many shops selling traditional South Indian textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Cheap and best shopping places in Chennai

Here are some popular and affordable shopping places in Chennai:

T Nagar

Known for its street markets and numerous shops selling sarees, jewelry, and other traditional Indian items.

George Town

A hub for wholesale markets and shops selling electronics, textiles, and other items.

Ritchie Street

Known for its electronic shops and local market for used electronics.

Pondy Bazaar

A popular street market for shopping for clothes, jewelry, and cosmetics.

Spencer Plaza

One of the oldest malls in Chennai, offering a mix of branded and local shops for clothing, footwear, and electronics.

Phoenix Market City

A modern shopping mall with a variety of brands and shops for clothing, footwear, and electronics.

Express Avenue

Another modern shopping mall with a variety of brands and shops for clothing, footwear, and electronics.

Best Budget restaurants in Chennai

Here are some popular and affordable restaurants in Chennai:

Saravana Bhavan –

A popular South Indian vegetarian restaurant known for its traditional dishes.

Anjappar Chettinad –

A South Indian restaurant specializing in Chettinad cuisine.

Buhari –

A chain of restaurants known for its biryanis and other traditional South Indian dishes.

Hotel Saravana Bhavan –

Another popular South Indian vegetarian restaurant known for its traditional dishes.

Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant –

A vegetarian restaurant offering a range of South Indian dishes.

Murugan Idli Shop –

A popular chain of South Indian restaurants known for its idlis and other vegetarian dishes.

Amma Unavagam –

A chain of budget restaurants run by the Chennai Corporation, offering traditional South Indian dishes at affordable prices.

Best street food stalls in Chennai

Chennai is famous for its street food, some popular street food stalls in Chennai are:

• Kollywood Bites
• Jannal Kadai
• Sree Guru Sweets
• Mylapore Kaikari Mess
• Kalaivanar Arangam Samosa Stall
• Sangeetha Mess
• Murugan Idli Shop
• Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant
• Amma Mess
• Adyar Ananda Bhavan.

Popular pubs and bars in Chennai

Chennai has a vibrant nightlife, and there are several popular pubs and bars in the city, here are some of them:

• 10 Downing Street
• The Moon and Sixpence
• The Leather Bar
• The Liquor Shop
• Simplotel The Irish House
• High
• The Flying Elephant
• Pasha – The Park
• Toit
• Microbrewery and Kitchen.

Cheap and best pubs and bars in Chennai

Chennai has several cheap and best pubs and bars that offer good food, drinks, and entertainment at affordable prices. Here are a few popular ones:

• BN Reddy’s Microbrewery & Kitchen
• The Wall
• The Knee-High Bar
• The Village Pub
• The First Floor
• Buzz
• The High Life
• The Wall Street Bar
• The Open House
• The Canvas Pub.

Cheap and best restaurants in Chennai

Chennai has a diverse food culture and there are many cheap and best restaurants that offer delicious food at affordable prices. Here are some popular ones:

• Murugan Idli Shop
• Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant
• Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant
• Amma Mess
• Saravana Bhavan
• Adyar Ananda Bhavan
• Adyar Park Hotel
• Buhari Hotel
• Pind Balluchi
• Balaji Bhavan.

Cheap and best clothes shopping in Chennai

Chennai is a hub for shopping, and there are several places where you can find cheap and the best clothes. Here are some popular options:

T Nagar –

Known for its budget-friendly and trendy clothes, T Nagar is a popular shopping destination in Chennai.

Pondy Bazaar –

This market offers a wide range of clothes at affordable prices.

Ranganathan Street –

This street is popular for its wholesale clothing shops, where you can find good deals.

Express Avenue Mall –

This mall has a variety of shops and brands that offer clothing at different price points.

Spencer Plaza –

One of the oldest malls in Chennai, Spencer Plaza has several shops that sell clothes at reasonable prices.

Chennai Silks –

This is a popular chain of saree shops in Chennai that offers a wide variety of sarees at affordable prices.

MK Retail –

This is a chain of clothing stores that offers a good range of clothes at budget-friendly prices.

Adventurous things to do in Chennai

Chennai offers a range of adventurous activities for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Here are some popular options:

Surfing –

Chennai has a few popular surfing spots, such as Covelong Beach, where you can try your hand at surfing.

Rock Climbing –

There are several indoor and outdoor rock climbing facilities in Chennai, where you can challenge yourself and improve your skills.

Scuba Diving –

You can go scuba diving at Pulicat Lake, which is a popular diving spot near Chennai.

Trekking –

There are several trekking destinations near Chennai, such as the Muttukadu Backwaters, which offer a scenic and challenging trek.

Ziplining –

You can go ziplining at a few adventure parks in Chennai, where you can fly through the air and enjoy the thrill of a high-speed ride.

Paragliding –

Paragliding is another adventurous activity that you can try in Chennai, and there are a few companies that offer tandem paragliding rides.

Beach Activities –

Chennai has several beaches, such as Mahabalipuram, where you can try beach sports such as beach volleyball, frisbee, and kite flying.

Adventurous places to visit in Chennai

Chennai has several adventurous places that are great for visitors who are seeking an adrenaline rush. Here are a few popular options:

Mahabalipuram –

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a great place for beach activities such as surfing, kite flying, and beach volleyball.

Muttukadu Backwaters –

This scenic spot is popular for trekking and kayaking.

Kovalam Beach –

This beach is a popular surfing spot, and you can also try beach sports such as beach volleyball and frisbee.

VGP Universal Kingdom –

This theme park offers a range of thrilling rides, including roller coasters and water rides.

MGM Dizzee World –

This theme park offers a range of rides, including a giant wheel, a giant drop, and a wave pool.

DakshinaChitra –

This heritage village is a living museum that showcases the traditional lifestyles, architecture, and crafts of South India. You can also try traditional activities such as pottery, weaving, and blacksmithing.

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary –

This bird sanctuary is a great place for bird-watching and photography.

Popular restaurants in Chennai

Chennai has a rich food culture and there are several popular restaurants that offer a wide variety of cuisine. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Murugan Idli Shop
• Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant
• Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant
• Amma Mess
• Saravana Bhavan
• Adyar Ananda Bhavan
• Adyar Park Hotel
• Buhari Hotel
• Pind Balluchi
• Balaji Bhavan

Best Tips for Budget trip to Chennai

Chennai can be an affordable destination for those who are traveling on a budget. Here are some tips that can help you save money on your trip to Chennai:

Accommodation –

Stay in budget hotels or guesthouses that offer good value for money. Consider homestays or hostels for an even more budget-friendly option.

Food –

Try street food stalls and local eateries for a budget-friendly meal. These places offer delicious food at a fraction of the cost of restaurants.

Transportation –

Use public transportation, such as local buses or trains, instead of taxis or private cars. This can help you save money and experience the city like a local.

Shopping –

Visit street markets and local shops instead of shopping in malls or luxury stores. You can find great deals on clothes, souvenirs, and other items.

Attractions –

Visit free attractions, such as parks, beaches, and temples. You can also buy tickets to attractions in advance to save money.

Plan Ahead –

Plan your trip in advance to get the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities. Booking early can also help you avoid peak-season prices.

Avoid Tourist Traps –

Be cautious of tourist traps that charge high prices for goods or services. Research ahead of time to find the best places to visit.

Popular malls must visit in Chennai

Chennai is home to several popular malls that offer a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Here are some of the most popular malls in Chennai:

Express Avenue –

This is one of the largest malls in Chennai, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and a multiplex cinema.

Phoenix Market City –

This mall offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including a multiplex cinema, a food court, and a gaming zone.

Forum Vijaya Mall –

This mall offers a wide range of shops, a multiplex cinema, a food court, and a gaming zone.

Spencer Plaza –

This is one of the oldest malls in Chennai, offering a mix of shopping and dining options.

Abirami Mega Mall –

This mall offers a multiplex cinema, a food court, and a wide range of shops.

The Great India Place –

This mall offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including a multiplex cinema and a food court.

Popular street to visit in Chennai

Chennai is a city that offers a vibrant street life, with a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Here are some of the most popular streets to visit in Chennai:

T Nagar –

This is a busy shopping street known for its traditional sari shops and gold jewelry stores.

Ranganathan Street –

This street is famous for its electronics shops and is a popular shopping destination for tech enthusiasts.

Anna Salai –

This is one of the busiest streets in Chennai, with a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Mount Road –

This street is lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, and is a popular shopping destination for locals and tourists.

George Town –

This historic neighborhood is known for its street markets, including the bustling flower market and the wholesale market.

Besant Nagar Beach –

This street is known for its scenic beach and street food stalls, offering a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s food culture.

A famous holy place in Chennai

Chennai is known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to several famous holy places. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Kapaleeswarar Temple –

This is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Parthasarathy Temple –

This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located in the Triplicane neighborhood of Chennai.

Santhome Cathedral Basilica –

This is a famous church in Chennai, built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ.

Mahabalipuram –

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, known for its rock-cut temples and monuments.

Marundeeswarar Temple –

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the Tiruvanmiyur neighborhood of Chennai.

Ashtalakshmi Temple –

This temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and power.

Best nightclubs in Chennai

Chennai is known for its nightlife, with a range of nightclubs offering a variety of music, drinks, and entertainment options. Here are some of the most popular nightclubs in Chennai:

10 Downing Street –

This is a popular club known for its lively atmosphere and DJs playing a mix of commercial and EDM music.

Hard Rock Cafe –

This is a popular restaurant and bar that also doubles as a nightclub, known for its live music and DJs playing a mix of international and local music.

Pasha –

This is a popular club known for its opulent décor, DJs playing a mix of commercial and Bollywood music, and lively atmosphere.

F-Bar and Lounge –

This is a popular bar and lounge known for its chic atmosphere and DJs playing a mix of commercial and EDM music.

Tavern –

This is a popular bar and lounge known for its casual atmosphere and DJs playing a mix of international and local music.

Best authentic Tamil Nadu restaurants in Chennai

Here are a few highly-rated authentic Tamil Nadu restaurants in Chennai:

• Saravana Bhavan
• Anjappar Chettinad
• Hotel Annalakshmi
• Akshaya
• Kailash Parbat
• Amma Unavagam
• Murugan Idli Shop
• Sangeetha Veg Restaurant
• Ratna Cafe
• Buhari Hotel.