Chennai: Complete Travel Guide 2025

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

⏱ 2 hours Free

Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a magnificent Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's one of the oldest and most important temples in Chennai.

The temple complex is adorned with intricately carved gopurams (towers) and vibrant sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. You can witness daily rituals and ceremonies, and experience the spiritual atmosphere.

Remember to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and remove your shoes before entering the temple. Photography is allowed in some areas, but not inside the inner sanctum.

Hours: 05:00-12:00, 16:00-21:00 daily
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Getting There: Metro: Mundakanni Amman Temple (Green Line), 1km

💡 Insider Tip:

Visit during a festival for a truly immersive experience, but be prepared for large crowds.

Fort St. George

⏱ 3 hours ₹10 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Fort St. George is a historic fort that was the first English fortress in India. It played a significant role in the British East India Company's expansion.

Explore the fort's museum, which houses artifacts from the colonial era, including weapons, uniforms, and documents. Visit St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India.

Note that photography is restricted in some areas of the fort. Allow ample time to explore the vast complex and learn about its history.

Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Fridays
Best Time: Morning to avoid the midday heat.
Getting There: Metro: High Court (Blue Line), 1km

Honest Take: Skip if you are not interested in colonial history.

💡 Insider Tip:

Hire a local guide to learn more about the fort's history and significance.

Marina Beach

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, try some street food, or visit the memorials of prominent leaders. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Be aware of strong currents and avoid swimming in the sea. The beach can be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.

Hours: Open 24 hours
Best Time: Early morning or late evening to avoid the heat and crowds.
Getting There: Metro: Government Estate (Blue Line), 2km

Honest Take: Overrated and dirty, but worth seeing once.

💡 Insider Tip:

Visit early in the morning to see the sunrise and avoid the crowds.

Government Museum Chennai

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹15 (Indians), ₹550 (foreigners)

The Government Museum Chennai is one of the oldest museums in India. It houses a vast collection of artifacts covering various aspects of South Indian history and culture.

Explore the museum's sections on archaeology, numismatics, zoology, and botany. See ancient sculptures, bronze artifacts, and exhibits on the Indus Valley Civilization.

The museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of South India. Allocate sufficient time to explore the diverse collections.

Hours: 09:30-17:00 daily
Closed: Fridays
Best Time: Anytime during the day.
Getting There: Metro: Government Estate (Blue Line), 1km

Honest Take: A must-visit for history buffs.

💡 Insider Tip:

Check for special exhibitions and events happening during your visit.

San Thome Basilica

⏱ 1.5 hours Free

San Thome Basilica is a Roman Catholic minor basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. It's one of the three churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus.

Admire the basilica's neo-Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows. Visit the crypt where the remains of St. Thomas are believed to be buried.

The basilica is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians. Dress respectfully when visiting the church.

Hours: 06:00-21:00 daily
Best Time: Anytime during the day.
Getting There: Metro: Mandaveli (Green Line), 3km

💡 Insider Tip:

Attend a Sunday mass to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the basilica.

DakshinaChitra

⏱ 4 hours ₹120 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

DakshinaChitra is a living history museum that showcases the art, architecture, and lifestyle of South India. It's a great place to learn about the region's diverse cultures.

Explore the museum's reconstructed traditional houses, craft workshops, and performance spaces. Watch artisans demonstrate traditional crafts and enjoy cultural performances.

DakshinaChitra is located outside the city center, so you'll need to take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to get there. Allow ample time for your visit.

Hours: 10:00-18:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Morning or afternoon.
Getting There: Taxi or Auto-rickshaw, 25km from city center

Honest Take: Worth the trip if you're interested in South Indian culture.

💡 Insider Tip:

Participate in a workshop to learn a traditional craft.

Valluvar Kottam

⏱ 1.5 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Valluvar Kottam is a monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, author of the Thirukkural. It is shaped like a temple chariot.

The monument houses a life-size statue of Thiruvalluvar and exhibits illustrating the verses of the Thirukkural. The auditorium hosts cultural events.

The monument is a peaceful place to learn about Tamil literature and culture. It is well maintained and provides a tranquil escape from the city.

Hours: 08:30-17:30 daily
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon.
Getting There: Metro: Nungambakkam (Green Line), 2km

💡 Insider Tip:

Visit the nearby Nungambakkam area for shopping and dining.