Incredible things to see and do in Chennai!

Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu, a southern state in India. With a population of over 9 million, it’s India’s fourth-largest city and the seventh most populous metropolitan area. Chennai is an important center of trade and commerce in Southern India and serves as a major transportation hub. It is home to several notable tourist attractions, including the Marina Beach and Fort St. George.

I hope you’ve gone through my earlier post – 7 Insanely Beautiful Places To Visit In Manali, India.

Things to see in Chennai:

Marina Beach:

The Marina Beach in Chennai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The beach is about 7 kilometers long and stretches from Fort St. George in the north to Besant Nagar in the south. The area is known for its wide variety of seafood restaurants, as well as its views of the Bay of Bengal. The Marina Beach is also a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

 

Kapaleeshwarar Temple:

The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of the most popular temples in Chennai. The temple was built by the Pallava king, Mahendravarman I and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a beautiful and intricate carvings all around it. The temple is also known for its vibrant festivals like the Karthigai Deepam, Panguni Uthiram, and Navaratri.

 

Fort St George:

The Fort St George is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chennai. It was built by the British East India Company in 1644 and is now a heritage site. The fort has been witness to many important historical events, such as the Carnatic Wars between the British and French. Today, it is home to a museum, which contains artifacts from that period. The fort is also surrounded by a beautiful park, which is a great place for a walk or picnic.

 

St. Thomas Mount National Shrine:

Situated on a hillock in Chennai is the century-old St. Thomas Mount National Shrine, one of the most popular Christian pilgrimage centers in India. The shrine is dedicated to Saint Thomas, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, Saint Thomas was martyred on this hillock and his remains were interred here.

The original shrine was built by the Portuguese in 1547 and was renovated in 1748 by the French. The present structure was built in 1866 by the British. The shrine complex consists of the basilica, an octagonal tower, a rectory and a pilgrim shelter. The basilica is a beautiful structure with an imposing facade. It has a seating capacity of 3000 people and houses relics of Saint Thomas. The octagonal tower is 66 m high and houses a giant cross at its summit.

 

Vivekananda House:

If you’re looking for some historical places to visit, Chennai has a few great ones. The Vivekananda House, for example, is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the famous Hindu monk Swami Vivekananda. It’s located in the Adyar district of Chennai and is worth a visit if you’re interested in Indian culture and history.

Things to do in Chennai:

Shopping at Spencer Plaza and Chennai Central Market – If you’re looking for a great place to shop in Chennai, Spencer Plaza and Chennai Central Market are two of the best. Spencer Plaza is a large shopping center with a variety of stores, including fashion boutiques, jewelers, and electronics shops. If you’re looking for Indian souvenirs or traditional handicrafts, you’ll find plenty of options at Chennai Central Market. The market is also a great place to find fresh produce, meat, and fish. Be sure to bargain with the vendors – you can often get good deals on items here.

 

Eating out at local restaurants –

There are plenty of great local places to eat in Chennai, and the best part is that they’re all affordable. You can find a wide variety of food options, from South Indian favorites like idli and dosa to Chinese and North Indian cuisine. Street stalls are also a great option for cheap, delicious food.

If you’re looking for a bit of shopping along with your meal, there are plenty of options in Chennai. The city’s main shopping district is George Town, where you’ll find everything from small shops to big malls. There’s also a popular market called Moore Market where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, clothes, and more.

 

Taking a rickshaw ride through the city streets –

There’s no better way to explore the sights and sounds of a new city than by taking a rickshaw ride through the streets. In Chennai, India, visitors can take in the vibrant atmosphere while shopping for souvenirs and local goods. From bustling markets to quiet back streets, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city.

One of the best places to start a rickshaw ride is at Fort St. George, which is the oldest British fort in Asia. It’s now home to a museum that showcases centuries of Indian history. After exploring the fort, head to Marina Beach, which is one of the longest beaches in India. Here, visitors can relax on the sand or take a swim in the ocean. Next, it’s time to check out some of Chennai’s markets.

 

Visiting the Snake Park –

The Snake Park in Chennai is a great place to visit for reptile enthusiasts. The park is home to a wide variety of snakes, including cobras, vipers, and kraits. It also has a number of turtles and lizards on display.

The park is open from 9am to 5pm, and admission is free. There is an information center where you can learn more about the animals on display, and there are also exhibits where you can see snakes being fed and handled by experts. If you’re interested in reptiles, the Snake Park is definitely worth a visit. It’s a great place to learn more about these fascinating creatures, and it’s also a lot of fun to watch them up close.

Chennai is a city full of culture and history. There are plenty of things to see and do, making it the perfect destination for a vacation. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s ancient temples or soaking up the sun on the beach, Chennai has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets today and explore all that this amazing city has to offer!