Chennai Attractions

Chennai served as the first major settlement in India for British settlers, and its streets reflect this colonial influence with its eclectic British Raj-era monuments and churches. Yet, Chennai is not all history: this is also a city whose pop culture rivals that of Mumbai, whose film industry is second to Mumbai - or Bollywood - in terms of output, a place where the night life is, it seems, limited only by the imagination of visitors.


Kapaleeswarar Temple
One of the oldest temples in the world, the Kapaleeswarar Temple has inscriptions dating back to the 13th Century dedicated to the Lord Shiva. The architecture is of classical Dravidian style, whilst paintings on the walls of the temple recall incidents from Hindu Mythology.

Non-Hindus are allowed entrance up to the outer courtyard of the temple.


Sri Parthasarathy Temple
This eighth century temple was built by the Pallavas in dedication to Lord Krishna and houses images of Vishnu.


Santhome Cathedral
Despite its predominantly Hindu population, Chennai also has residents practising almost all major faiths. The Santhome Cathedral is a 500 year old cathedral built by the Portuguese in honour of Saint Thomas.


Saint Thomas Mount
Also built by the Portuguese, this church provides a serene setting and fine views of the city.


Snake Park
One of the finest Snake parks in the country, the Chennai Snake Park attracts a large number of visitors of all ages.


The Marina Beach
The world’s second longest beach is an ideal place for recreation and relaxation.


Birla Planetarium
One of the most modern planetariums in the country, the Birla Planetarium presents audio-visual programs to people of all ages on various themes in astronomy.


Elliot’s Beach
The second largest beach in Chennai is a much quieter and calmer place than its more illustrious cousin; the Marina Beach. Enjoy the sun, take a swim, surf and relax at this idyllic beach.


Valluvar Kottam
The memorial built for immortal Tamil poet-saint, Thiruvalluvar, is located in Nungambakkam. The shrine is a replica of the chariot temple at Thiruarur. In addition to the memorial, there is also an auditorium that houses up to 4000 people.


National Art Gallery & Government Museum
The museum is home to a fine collection of items pertaining to geology, archaeology, numismatics, anthropology, botany and zoology.


Excursions

Mamallapuram
This is a site that houses ancient sculptural masterpieces. Built by the Pallavas, the temples pay homage to Shiva and Vishnu. It is located 61 kilometres from Chennai.


Kancheepuram
Kancheepuram is one of the seven most holy cities in Hindu mythology, yet that is only one aspect that makes the city so unique. It is here that the world famous Kancheepuram silks are made. Since ancient times, the city’s weavers have been making some of the world’s best silk sarees.