chennai fun places to visit

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• 16 Super Fun Places In Chennai To Hang Out With Friends And Family In 2024

23 Mar 2023

If you are in Chennai and your idea of fun is limited to a cappuccino at CCD or caramel popcorn at the nearest PVR, we ask you to wait! If your weekends are only about watching a cricket match, relaxing at the lazy couch or cooking something mouth-watering, we are about to change that. You will find a number of fun places in Chennai at your disposal. When the heat in Chennai turns up, you have a myriad water park to get relief, and for the fun evenings, you have Chennai’s finest beaches as your source of amusement.

16 Fun Places to Visit In Chennai

Looking for the most amazing fun places in Chennai? Here is a quick rundown of the fun activities that can be done with friends and family while you are in Chennai. Make sure to add your favorites to the bucket list.

1. Marina Beach 

Image Source Predominantly a sandy beach, Marina is India’s longest and world’s second longest beach. It is the favorite hangout place of locals as well as tourists. Mesmerizing sunset, horse rides, hot air balloons, and some snacks, Marina Beach is a popular name among fun places to visit in Chennai with friends . Also, you can explore numerous places to visit near Marina beach for an amazing holiday. 

Fun things to do: Exploring an aquarium, ice house, kite flying, pony riding, and authentic seafood. Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu

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2. Vandalur Zoo 

Image Source Arignar Anna Zoological Park, popularly known as Vandalur Zoo is another famous attraction among fun places in Chennai. A favorite among kids as well as adults, this zoological park is a conservation site for flora and fauna of Eastern and Western ghats which is used as an active breeding space for endangered species. 

Fun things to do: Visit Aquarium, deer safari, lion safari, and prey-predator enclosure, nocturnal animal house, snake house, butterfly house, white tiger exhibit, and waterfall entrance. Entry fee: INR 30 for visitors above 10 years. INR 10 for 2-10 years and children below 2 years Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm (Tuesday closed) Location: Grand Southern Trunk Rd, Vandalur, Tamil Nadu 600048

3. VGP Universal Kingdom

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Located on the East coast road, VGP Universal Kingdom is an amusement park offering thrill and fun to visitors of all ages. This place among the favorite fun places in Chennai offers rides for kids, youths, and family, eateries, and live shows. A complete entertainment package. It is among the best entertainment places in Chennai for families.

Fun things to do: Explore circus train, Aladdin, dashing car, go-karting, water chute, combat, balloon racer, doll kingdom, flying machine, and jungle car. One can also enjoy live shows like folk music, dance and light, and semi-classical music performances. Entry fee: INR 300. This ticket provides access to all rides of the Universal Kingdom for a day. Opening hours: 11 am to 7:30 pm Location: SH 49, Injambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600115

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4. Guindy Snake Park

Image Source One of the best adventure places in Chennai, Guindy Snake Park is an abode to various snakes, crocodiles, tortoises, earthworms, scorpions and mites. The place is loved for hosting fun activities in Chennai . It is a great initiative of wildlife conservation for reptiles and alligators and some rare flora species. It is one of the most offbeat and intriguing places to visit in Chennai with friends.

Fun things to do: Watch the rare species of snakes tortoises and crocodiles like King Cobra, Python, Turtle and Monitor Lizard. Entry fee: INR 15 for adults and Rs 5 for Children between (2-10) years Opening hours: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. (Tuesdays closed) Location: Raj Bhavan post, Guindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600022

5. Fun City

Image Source The Fun city is definitely a preferred name among the popular entertainment places in Chennai for family . It offers space for plenty of fun games, learning experiences, activities, rides and assures big smiles in return. Sundays can be relaxing and thrilling with such a visit!

Fun things to do: Infants and toddlers can enjoy ‘fun zones’ while children and young adults can indulge in bowling, pool, and other fun rides like the ‘dashing car’. Entry fee: Different for each ride Opening hours: 10 am to 10:30 pm. You have the entire day for fun and celebration. Location: 142, Velachery Rd, Indira Gandhi Nagar, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600042

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6. Birla Planetarium 

Image Source Like all others, Birla Planetarium organized simulated tours of the universe, solar system, and cosmic shows. It is a famous destination for school excursions, young children, and families. The planetarium ensures a fun day out with effective learning. It is among the best places to see in Chennai. 

Fun things to do: Enjoy the shows on extra-terrestrial objects and the universe and visit the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) pavilion to see large size exhibits of missiles, naval systems, combat vehicles and advanced machine guns. Entry fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for kids. Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm Location: Gandhi Mandapam Rd, Duraisamy Nagar, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600025

7. Kishkinta Theme Park 

Image Source The Kishkinta theme park is located on the outskirt of Chennai along the remodeled hills and lakes. The water rides, dry rides, eateries and waterfalls make this a happening water theme park among people of all ages. It is a one-stop space for ultimate fun and is one of the best places to see in Chennai. 

Fun things to do: Explore water rides like Flume ride, Aqua slide, Kamikaze, Anaconda, dry rides like a cyclone, super jumper, space shuttle, and dragon coaster. Entry fee: INR 550 adult and INR 450 for children Opening hours: 10:30 am to 6:30 pm, 10:30 am to 7:00 pm on Sundays Location: Near, 82, Varadarajapuram, Darkas Ward – II, Tambaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600044

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8. MGM Dizzee World 

Image Source Family time can be best spent where children love to go and enjoy to the fullest. MGM Dizzee World is one such place in Chennai, located in East Coast Road, that ensures super fun with its varied range of rides, swings, and water slides. Visiting this super fun place is definitely one of the top things to do in Chennai. It is definitely among one of the most amazing entertainment places in Chennai.

Fun things to do: Explore Big wheel, Disc saucer, Roll o Roll, Tomb Raider, shoe house. Families can also enjoy a boat ride, rain tree, and amphitheater. MGM offers a special experience of snow showers and snowmen. Entry fee: Starts from INR 599 Opening hours: 10:30 am to 6 pm Location: 1/74, SH 49, Muthukadu, Tamil Nadu 600112

9. Muttukadu 

Image Source Muttukadu is a backwater area in the Kanchipuram district near Chennai. The place is famous for watersports and boating; and is ideal for relaxation and chilling out. This is amongst the best places in Chennai to visit with friends .

Fun things to do: Karnakasi Ranger, Dashing Boat, Arrow Loop Roller Coaster, water sports and 110 feet Dizzee Shake. Visit Dakshinchitra, a small handicraft village. Entry fee: Boat charges depend on the duration of the boating and the type of boat chosen. Opening hours: 10:30 am to 5:30 pm Location: Muttukadu, Chennai India

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10. Covelong Beach 

What makes Covelong Beach one of the best places in Chennai to have fun is the myriad adventure activities. This beach is an extension of the famous Kovalam Beach located in the fishing village called Covelong, hence the name. If you have a penchant for watersports, then you should definitely come to this place. From jet skiing, windsurfing to boat rides, you can try everything here. There is even a surf school on the beach.

Fun things to do: Water sports Location: Kovalam, Tamil Nadu

11. Elliot Beach 

Elliot Beach is one of the fun places in Chennai for family where you can enjoy munching on street snacks while you take a stroll on the beach. It is one of the best places to enjoy the lip-smacking cuisine of Chennai since you will find a number of stalls and even fine-dining restaurants here. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best beaches near Chennai. The beautiful views of the ocean are a given.

Fun things to do: Enjoy the cuisine of Chennai Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai

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One of the most popular discs in town, Pasha is where you should go if you love dancing. This Persian-style nightlife is one of the dopest places in Chennai making it popular among the youth of Chennai. Enjoy a good time with your friends shaking to the latest tunes and an awesome mix by some of the most popular DJs. The fun ambiance of this place makes it one of the best fun places in Chennai .

Location: 601, The Park, Near US Embassy, Anna Salai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600006 Opening hours: 7 PM – 3 AM Entry Fee: INR 3,500 for two

13. Crocodile Park

If you love crocodiles and alligators, then this park could be one of the fun and entertaining places in Chennai for you. Know interesting facts and information about the reptile species and even feed them. This is a fun place for both kids and adults. Get a closer look and get rid of any fear of crocodiles. The park is managed by The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology and is located 40 km away from the city.

Location: Post Bag No 4, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104 Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, Monday closed Entry Fee: INR 60 for adults, INR 30 for kids

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14. MGR Film City 

If you want to catch a glimpse of your favorite Tamil actor, MGR Film City is the place to be. It is one of the best places to visit in Chennai. It is a popular Chennai tourist attraction as it has indoor and outdoor shooting locations, film school, church, mosque, garden and more designed in Mughal and Japanese style.

Fun things to do: Take a look at the indoor and outdoor shooting locations, and stroll through the landscaped gardens

Entry fee: INR 25 Opening hours: 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM Location: Kanagam, Tharamani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600113

15. Express Avenue Mall 

If you are looking for fun places to visit in Chennai , make sure to add Express Avenue mall to your itinerary. It is your one-stop destination for all your shopping needs. There are many retail outlets spread on different floors of the mall. Not only this, the mall has the largest gaming complex in South India. The eight-screen cineplex, kids play zone and various eating options make it one of the most visit Chennai tourist attractions.

Fun things to do: Play your favorite game at the gaming arcade or visit the gaming shops Entry fee: No entry fee Opening hours: 10 AM – 9 PM Location: 17, Pattullos Rd, Express Estate, Thousand Lights, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600002

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16. Monkey Monk 

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Monkey Monk is the most ideal fun place to visit in Chennai . You can plan a perfect day out to this place with your friends and family. There is a lot in store for all the adventure junkies here. You can try activities like valley crossing, zip-lining, Burma bridge, ladder crossing, and more.

Fun things to do: Try different adventure activities Entry fee: Adults – INR 550 and kids – INR 450 Opening hours: 10 AM – 7 PM Location: No.109, SH 49, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

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For those who do not find Chennai fun and interesting, hope their misconception is shattered. Chennai may be a traditional city in Tamil Nadu but people here sure know how to have fun. Hope, we have given you a lot to do this weekend! Pick your choice from the list and have a gala time with family and friends. Do not miss to click and share photographs. But first, plan a trip to Chennai for your family or friends.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Fun Places In Chennai

Is it safe to travel to Chennai during COVID times?

You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the government such as maintaining social distance, wearing a mask at public places, washing or sanitizing hands after entry & exit, etc.

Which is the most fun beach to visit in Chennai?

There are a couple of beaches in Chennai to have a good time. Some of them are: 1. Marina Beach 2. Covelong Beach 3. Elliot Beach

Is there any mall in Chennai?

Chennai has a plethora of malls, some of the best malls in Chennai are: 1. Express Avenue Mall 2. Forum Vijaya Mall 3. VR Chennai

Which is the best amusement park in Chennai?

For a day loaded with fun and excitement, you can explore Kishkinta theme park, Dash-n-Splash waterpark and VGP Universal Kingdom.

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The 13 best things to do in Chennai

Classic South Indian fare, fashion and hospitality take centre stage when tackling the best things to do in Chennai

Once known as Madras, this is the centre of India ’s cultural and artistic heart, as made apparent on our list of best things to do in Chennai.

Classic South Indian fare, fashion and hospitality are on offer from the historic centre of Mylapore to the seaside of Marina Beach. If you’re looking for a party, best head out of town to nearby Mahabalipuram. But if you want to understand how ancient India lives on within a bustling urban city, then Chennai has plenty to see and do.

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

Find out more about   how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world .

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Best things to do in Chennai

1.  Kalakshetra Foundation

What is it? A school, cultural academy, museum and performance centre all rolled into one. Kalakshetra is dedicated to preserving and teaching classical Indian dance, music, art, and history. Established in 1936, it represents the essence of South India.

Why go? Whether you’re an aficionado or just want to experience the best of Tamil arts and culture, a visit to Kalakshetra is a must. There’s plenty to do – visiting the museum and arts and crafts centre, relaxing in the leafy grounds – but don’t miss catching a performance from classical dance artists.

2.  Avartana

What is it? The hottest restaurant on the Chennai dining scene. Avartana takes authentic South Indian cuisine out of the home and into the modern world.

Why go? There isn’t anything gimmicky about Avartana. Rather than using molecular gastronomy for the sake of it, Chef Ajit Bagera treats the traditional flavours of the south with respect while transforming them into something that would get a traditionalist’s lunghi in a knot. You’ll never look at a humble plate of curd rice the same way again.

3.  Georgetown Bazaar

What is it? Known as Black Town in days gone past, this is where locals come to trade everything from vegetables and spices to bangles and stationery.

Why go? You can tell so much about a culture from its markets and Georgetown Bazaar is quintessential Madras. While you can walk this historic area alone, a guide can regale you with stories of generations gone past and, most importantly, show you how to haggle with the best of them.

4.  Night safari at Madras Crocodile Bank Trust

What is it? The largest crocodile sanctuary in India, home to 17 different species.

Why go? Crocodiles are nocturnal animals, so the best time to see them in action is after dark. With nothing but the moonlight and a small flashlight paving the way, go in search of one of the world’s most dangerous animals. It’s a rare opportunity to see crocodiles on the prowl, breeding and protecting their home turf.

5.  Kapaleeshwarar Temple

What is it? One of Chennai’s oldest temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer. Originally built in the seventh century by the Pallava Dynasty, the Kapaleeshwarar Temple was demolished by the Portuguese and rebuilt in Mylapore ten centuries later.

Why go? To explore the intricately carved gateway, the inner sanctum and numerous shrines. The ‘tank’ is the central point for festivals, snacks and of course the glorious array of temple offerings. Pick up a selection of sweets to offer on your way in and grab a filtered kaapi (coffee) on your way out.

6.  Olive Ridley Turtles

What is it? Every Friday and Saturday night between December and April, the Students Sea Turtle Conservation Network allows locals and tourists to join them as they collect olive ridley turtle eggs and place them in safe hatching grounds.

Why go? It’s rare to see an endangered Olive Ridley turtles at close quarters in India. This experience lets you get up close with the gestational process; collecting eggs, seeing how they’re cared for in the hatchery, then releasing hatchlings into the sea.

7.  Marina Beach and Fort St George

What is it? The British East India Company lives on in spirit in the colonial architecture peppered throughout historic Fort St George and nearby Marina Beach.

Why go? To see the former home of the British Raj. Wander the streets, see the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and soak in the atmosphere of an era. If you’re interested in military memorabilia don’t miss the Fort Museum. Otherwise, head to Marina Beach and join in a friendly game of beach cricket with local kids.

8.  Thalankuppam Pier

What is it? A tranquil fishing spot where the Thalankuppam River meets the sea.

Why go? To escape the honking and chaos. It’s a popular film location so if you’re lucky you may even get the chance to be an extra. The best times to visit (and to get a great selfie) are sunrise and sunset. Why not practice your salute to the sun with the sparkling waves as your backdrop?

9.  Saravana Bhavan

What is it? A humble family restaurant which became a global chain, serving traditional Tamil food morning, noon and night.

Why go? To start your day off with a steaming hot idli (savoury rice cake) dipped in malgapodi (appropriately nicknamed gunpowder). For lunch, get your fix of paper-thin dosas with a delicious array of lip-smacking chutneys. Finish off with a combo to sample the best South Indian cuisine has to offer.

10.  T. Nagar

What is it? A neighbourhood where all of Chennai meets to eat, shop, celebrate and shop some more. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, it’s not worth having.

Why go? During the winter months, T.Nagar (abbreviated from Thyagaraya Nagar) hosts performances from classical musicians and traditional dancers. While this draws in the crowds, it’s really the shopping that keeps people coming back. Bring patience and be prepared to fight your way through the crowds for a bargain. If you’re searching for a saree, drop into Nalli, the go-to place for exquisite Kanchipuram silk since 1928.

11.  Cholamandal Artists Village

What is it? Since 1966, Cholomandal Artists Village has been the largest artistic commune in India.

Why go? This commune is known as one of the birthplaces of modern art in southern India. Wander through the artists’ studios, galleries, and workshops, chat with creatives, and perhaps even pick up something unique that you’ll treasure for years to come.

12.  The Theosophical Society

What is it? An expansive park in the middle the crowded city.

Why go? To chill out. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, soak in the scent of seasonal blooms, and listen to the chirping of birds hidden within the branches of ancient banyan trees. Explore monuments that celebrate religion in all its forms, from Buddhist shrines to Zoroastrian temples nestled amidst the gardens.

13.  Amadora

What is it? Chennai’s best ice cream parlour.

Why go? With over 250 flavours, picking the perfect scoop can be challenging, so let’s make it easy for you. When in Chennai you can’t go past a scoop or three of Mami’s Filter Kaapi (coffee) ice cream. Indian filtered coffee is traditionally served with frothed milk in a stainless steel tumbler, but in this instance we’ll make an exception.

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22 Best Things to Do in Chennai

How to Best Experience Chennai and its Culture

Unlike some other cities in India, Chennai (previously known as Madras) doesn't have any world famous monuments or tourist attractions. It was a cluster of small villages until the British developed it as a trading port, naval base, and administration hub. Instead of quickly leaving a memorable first impression, Chennai is a city that requires time and effort to really get to know and appreciate it. Chennai is a city that requires you to explore below its surface and delve into its distinctive culture. These places to visit and things to do in Chennai will help you uncover what makes the city special. Try and be there in mid January for the annual Pongal festival as well.

Have time for a side trip? Here are 11 Places to Visit Near Chennai .

Explore Historic Mylapore

Chennai's historic Mylapore neighborhood is often referred to as the soul of the city. One of the oldest residential parts of the city, predominantly inhabited by Brahmins, it's full of culture. There you'll find Chennai's most impressive temple, the 17th-century Kapaleeshwarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Other top attractions include neo-Gothic style San Thome Cathedral, originally built by the Portuguese, and serene Ramakrishna Mutt Temple. Storytrails conducts an insightful walking tour of Mylapore. The annual Mylapore Festival is held in early January, just before Pongal.

Retrace Chennai's History

A legacy of the British East India Company, which completed construction in 1653, Fort Saint George was the nucleus of what became the city of Madras. The monument is one of Britain's first lasting footprints on India. It's now home to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and Secretariat. It also contains the grand St Mary's Church—one of the oldest surviving churches built by the British—and the Fort Museum. The museum has exhibits about the fort and Chennai's origin. There are displays of military memorabilia, relics, paintings, and artifacts from the colonial period as well. It's open daily, except Fridays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The entrance fee is 5 rupees for Indians and 100 rupees for foreigners. Children under 15 years of age can enter for free.

Admire Madras High Court

Located just outside Fort Saint George, in George Town, massive Madras High Court is one of the largest judicial buildings in the world. Built in 1892, it has distinctive red Indo-Saracenic architecture, with magnificent painted ceilings and stained-glass doors. It's possible to wander through the court and even sit in on a session.

See Ancient Bronze Statues at the Government Museum

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Chennai's impressive Government Museum is the best in the city. Its expansive galleries are spread across three buildings, with the highlight being the Bronze Gallery. It has an outstanding collection of bronze statues from the 7th century onward. Most belong to the significant Chola period from the 9th to 11th centuries. There are also extensive archeological and anthropology galleries. The museum is situated in the British-built Pantheon Complex on Pantheon Road. It's open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The complex includes the National Art Gallery, Contemporary Art Gallery and Children’s Museum. All can be accessed on the same entry ticket. The cost is 15 rupees for Indians and 250 rupees for foreigners. There's an additional camera fee of 500 rupees.

Meander Through the Markets and Bazaars

The congested lanes of George Town are occupied by some absorbing street stalls and markets. This area, which used to be known as Black Town during the colonial period, was settled by locals who came to serve and trade with the British in Fort Saint George. It was the first settlement of the city of Madras, which began its expansion from there in the 1640s. It's noisy, chaotic, and a photographer's delight! Explore the area on this Georgetown Bazaar Walk offered by Chennai Magic or Bazaar Trail Walk offered by Storytrails.

Get a Bird's Eye View from Chennai Lighthouse

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Chennai's landmark lighthouse stands alongside Marina Beach, overlooking the Bay of Bengal. It was built in 1976 and is the city's fourth lighthouse tower. The first lighthouse was established at Fort Saint George in 1796. It was superseded by two subsequent lighthouses set within the Madras High Court complex. Notably, the lighthouse is the only one in an Indian city, and one of the few in the world with an elevator. It's powered by a solar panel and houses the local meteorological department. Take the elevator up to the lookout point on the ninth floor for panoramic views across the beach and city. The lighthouse is located on Beach Road, and is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily except Mondays.

Spend Sunset at Marina Beach

For a real Indian beach experience, head to Marina Beach at sunset and soak up the carnival-like atmosphere, with amusement rides and snack stalls. The beach, which is the longest urban beach in India, starts from near Fort Saint George and runs south for 13 kilometers (8.1 miles). It's dotted with numerous statues and monuments, and is a popular hangout place for locals. Tens of thousands of people visit it every day. This number really swells on weekends. Do note that bathing and swimming aren't permitted as there are strong currents.

Discover Chennai's Multi-Cultural Communities

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Triplicane borders Marina Beach and is one of Chennai's oldest neighborhoods. It's an ideal place to discover more of the city's multi-cultural heritage. The neighborhood is centered around the 8th century Hindu Parthasarathy temple but has been influenced by the British and the Nawab of Arcot, who settled there. Nowadays, it's home to a menagerie of monastic orders, Brahmin agraharams , Hindu and Jain temples, mosques, traditional music venues, and small local cafes. Chennai Magic's heritage walk through Triplicane provides insight into the religious beliefs, food taboos, and cultural preferences of its various communities.

Learn About Swami Vivekananda

Dedicated to revered spiritual teacher Swami Vivekananda, Vivekananda House is maintained by Sri Ramakrishna Math and houses a permanent exhibition on his life and Indian culture. There's a meditation room on the second floor where the Swami stayed after his return from the west in February 1897. The distinctive Victorian-style building is more than 150 years old and was originally built to store ice. It was subsequently purchased by Biligiri Iyengar, an advocate of the Madras High Court, who named it Castle Kernan. Vivekananda House is located opposite Marina Beach in Triplicane. It's open from 10.00 a.m. until 12.30 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. until 7.15 p.m, daily except Mondays. Tickets cost 20 rupees for adults and 10 rupees for children.

Grab a Bargain at Chennai's Main Shopping District

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Join the hordes of bargain hunters looking for discounts on everything from saris to gold at Chennai's main shopping district, Thyagaraya Nagar (T. Nagar).  It's one of the most crowded places in India! On weekends during the festival season (from November until the end of January) the crowds can swell to an astonishing two million people! Ranganathan Street is where most of the action happens. Performance venues in the neighborhood (such as Krishna Gana Sabha, Vani Mahal and Bharath Kalachar) also host many famous classical musicians during the month-long Madras Music Season, from mid December to mid January each year.

Marvel Over Kasimedu Fishing Harbour and Market

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Early risers will find the fishy frenzy at Kasimedu Fishing Harbor to be a fascinating sight. The harbor comes alive as early as 2 a.m., when the first catch is brought in. However, the activity continues throughout the day, with more than 1,500 fishing boats operating there. As well as supplying local markets, the fish is exported to neighboring states such as Kerala and Karnataka. The fishing harbor complex also incorporates an auction hall for the fish and a ship building yard. It's located in Royapuram, one of the oldest parts of Chennai, north of the city center.

Wander Through One of Asia's Largest Vegetable Markets

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Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex is another fascinating local attraction for early risers. The massive market complex was inaugurated in 1996 and is spread over 295 acres west of the city center near Anna Nagar. It houses about 1,000 wholesale shops and 2,000 retail shops. Although the market operates around the clock, the best time to visit the wholesale vegetable section is from 3 a.m. to 5 a.m., when most of the produce sales take place. The wholesale flower section is most vibrant after noon, when the fresh supply of flowers has arrived.

Sample Chennai's Cuisine

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Foodies shouldn't miss exploring south Chennai's cultural Adyar neighborhood, named after the Adyar River that flows through it. Although it's one of the costliest areas of the city, it also has some iconic eateries that have withstood the test of time. One of them is Adyar Ananda Bhavan, which was established more than three decades ago and serves up authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine and sweets. Chennai Magic conducts this food walk through Adyar , stopping at local provision and specialty shops to learn about the ingredients and spices that go into southern Indian foods. You'll get to try some yummy delicacies too! Alternatively, Storytrails offers this Food Trail through Sowcarpet , which is conveniently close to George Town in central Chennai.

Feast on Chennai's Biggest Thali

Image: The Hindu newspaper.

Ponnusamy Hotel on Jaganathan Road in Nungambakkam is famous for its humongous Bahubali Thali (platter) with 50 items! It's way too big for one person to eat alone, so make sure you bring your friends or family along. The thali costs 1,499 rupees, and has a mix of meat and vegetarian dishes. The restaurant is open daily from noon to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. It's a good idea to get there early or make a reservation.

Watch Artists at Work at India's Largest Artists' Commune

Cholamandal Artists’ Village was set up in 1966 in Injambakkam Village, on the southern outskirts of Chennai. What's really remarkable about it is that the artists are self-sustaining and have not received any financial assistance—they purchased their own land and built everything themselves including their houses, studios, gallery, theater, and workshops. The village is renowned for having pioneered the Madras Movement of Art, which brought modern art to south India. You'll get to see an extraordinary collection of paintings and sculptures there, along with the artists at work. The entry fee is 30 rupees per adult and 20 rupees per child, open from 9.30 a.m. until 6.30 p.m.

Experience South India's Arts and Culture

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Kalakshetra Foundation sprawls over 100 acres of verdant land on Kalakshetra Road in Thiruvanmiyur, near the sea in southern Chennai. This esteemed cultural academy is dedicated to the preservation and teaching of Indian art forms, and is a wonderful place to visit if you want to experience the arts of South India. It focuses on Bharatanatyam classical dance, Carnatic classical music, the visual arts, traditional crafts and textile design, history and philosophy. There's a craft center and museum on the premises. Kalakshetra is open for visitors from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Self-guided tours (using a free map) cost 100 rupees for Indians and 200 rupees for foreigners. Guided tours , conducted by an eminent person well-versed in the field of Art and Culture, are also offered for groups of 1-10 people for a cost of 4000 rupees. Free evening performances are often held at the auditorium.

Attend a Classical Music and Dance Performance

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If you like Carnatic dance and music, the Madras Music Academy is one of the earliest established music academies in South India and is at the heart of the scene in Chennai. A year-round program of events, recitals, and concerts is held in its grand auditorium on TT Krishnamachari Road in Gopalapuram near Mylapore. Don't miss the annual Chennai Music Season from mid December to mid January, with a multitude of productions (free and ticketed) happening at various venues across the city.

Take a Cooking Lesson

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Impress guests at your next dinner party by learning how to made delicious south Indian food in a local home where the magic happens. The lady of the house will lead you through an interactive cooking session, explaining the use of spices and cooking techniques. Afterwards, you'll be able to enjoy the meal while chatting to the family about life in Chennai. The cooking classes offered by Chennai Magic and Storytrails are both great options.

Browse India's Oldest Bookstore

Higginbotham's

Higginbothams has been in business on Mount Road (Anna Salai) since 1844, when it was started by a British librarian stowaway. It quickly become the preferred bookstore of the Madras Presidency and grew to be the largest bookstore chain in India. All kinds of books and publications were sold there. The store continues to stock the latest releases and rare editions. It has a large section devoted to Indian and Tamil writes of all genres, an excellent English language section (including travel books), and a children's section with captivating books for all ages. The bookstore is open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Higginbothams also has a Writer's Cafe and bookstore on Peters Road in Gopalapuram, where you can sit and read. More recently, a branch of the cafe opened on 3rd Main Road in Adyar. The cafes employ acid-burn survivors and people from the Spastic Society of Tamil Nadu. Profits are used to help victims of domestic violence.

Have a "Kollywood" Moment at Broken Bridge

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Chennai's isolated bridge to nowhere juts out from the mouth of the Adyar River at the rear of the Theosophical Society forest in Adyar. It's opposite the Leela Palace hotel, and not far from trendy Besant Nagar and the Kalakshetra Foundation. This offbeat attraction is commonly known as the Broken Bridge, as it collapsed in 1977 and has continued to deteriorate. Prior to that, fishermen used it to cross the river. The bridge has featured in a number of Tamil "Kollywood" movies (so called because the Tamil movie industry is based in Kodambakkam in Chennai) including Vaali and Aayudha Ezhuthu . Sunrise over the bridge is particular striking. However, it's said to be haunted and unsafe there at night.

Join a Turtle Walk

Did you know that the coast of Chennai is a breeding ground for the endangered Olive Ridley turtle? During nesting season, from December to April each year, large numbers of turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. The hatchlings are left to make their own way into the sea and many of them die. In order to increase their chances of survival, volunteers of the Students Sea Turtle Conservation Network (SSTCN) conduct walks to collect their eggs and take them to a hatchery. The walks happen on Friday and Saturday nights, starting at 11 p.m., from Neelangarai beach to Besant Nagar beach. Members of the public who are interested in conservation are welcome to join in. It's also possible to see hatchlings being released in the evenings during March and April.

Celebrate Madras Week

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What began, in 2004, as a one-day commemoration of the founding of the city of Madras has evolved into a week of fun festivities. Activities include food walks, heritage walks, nature walks, photo walks and exhibitions, book readings, film screenings, and public talks. Madras Day is on August 22 every year, and Madras Week takes place around this date.

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• Travel Guides

Treat Yourself To The 15 Best Things To Do In Chennai

From catching the arresting sunrise and sunset views to exhilarating water activities, the never-ending list will etch a mark in your hearts forever.

Are you planning a trip to Chennai and wondering about the activities to be included in your trip to Chennai? Whether you are looking for a serene break or adrenaline-pumping water activities,  the best things to do in Chennai make it an ideal getaway with family or friends. Chennai is famous for its pristine beaches, historic temples, alluring sunrise and sunset views, ancient structures, and numerous adventure activities. Visiting numerous places allows you to uncover the rich history, vibrant culture, and heritage of the land. Chennai is a haven for art lovers, history buffs, art enthusiasts, and adventurists alike, making it one of the best tourist places in the world.

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Chennai

From a plethora of the best things to do in Chennai, here is a curated listicle that will help you select the best activities and provide insights into the timings, ticket prices, and prominent things to do. 

1. Witness A Captivating Sunrise At Elliot’s Beach

Experience euphoria while you catch the arresting sunrise and sunset at Elliot’s Beach is one of the best things to do here. Located in Besant Nagar, Edward Elliot’s Beach or Elliot’s Beach is home to stunning temples, ancient churches, and historic monuments. Taking a relaxing morning stroll along the serene beach is the best way to rejuvenate yourself and start your day on a high note. The striking shoreline is the perfect place to take a stroll, as the road is filled with local joints serving local delicacies, which makes it one of the ideal fun things to do in Chennai.

Location: 6th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600090, India.

Prominent Things To Do: Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health or Annai Vailankanni Church, Ashtalakshmi Temple, and Karl Schmidt Memorial. 

Best Time to Visit: November to February.

Elliot’s Beach Entry Fees: Free

Elliot’s Beach Timings: All day

2. Engage In Parasailing At Marina Beach

Marina Beach is one of those tourist places that impeccably showcases Chennai’s true essence, character, and soul. Situated on the Bay of Bengal, along the ravishing Coromandel Coast, Marina Beach stretches to a length of 13 km, attracting thousands of tourists worldwide. 

Chennai is famous for Marina Beach, the longest beach in India and the second-longest urban beach in the world. Rejoice in the arresting views of the sunrise and sunset and no wonder the beach is the preferred destination for locals and tourists alike. Numerous ancient structures along the beach allow you to take a sneak peek into the history and appreciate the stunning architecture. Engaging in parasailing, allows you to capture the arresting panoramic view of Chennai. 

Location: Coromandel Coast, Chennai

Best Time to Visit: October to February.

Marina Beach Entry Fees : Free

Parasailing Ticket prices: From INR 2500 approximately. 

Parasailing At Marina Beach Timings: From 9:30 PM to 6 PM.

If you are looking for hassle-free travel, book your Private Custom Tour: Chennai Sightseeing with Guide here.

3. Go On A Safari At Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Positioned at the heart of the city, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a flourishing oasis of enchantment and wonder, which makes it to the top of the list of fun things to do with friends and family. A true haven for animal enthusiasts and keen nature lovers, the Vandalur Zoo offers an unmatched opportunity to unfurl the numerous species of the animal kingdom.

The park is highly motivated and dedicated to conserving rare and endangered species for upcoming generations. Spreading over 602 hectares, the park is one of the largest zoos in Southeast Asia, which houses more than 138 species of flora and fauna. The lion safari at the zoo allows you to explore various animal species and capture exotic bird species. 

Arignar Anna Zoological Park Entry Fee:

Indian Adults: INR 50 per person

Safari for Adults: INR 150 per person

Children(5 years-12 years): INR 50 per person

Children(5 years-12 years): INR 20 per person

Students: INR 20 per person

Arignar Anna Zoological Park Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tuesdays- Closed)

Prominent Things To Do: Butterfly house, Reptile house or Serpentarium, Sanctuary aviaries, engage in Lion Safari, Elephant Safari, Deer Park and Zoo Museum

Best Time To Visit: October to February.

4. Gaze At The Mesmerizing Structures At Mahabalipuram

Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram is a historically rich town located on a stretch of land, between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake. Numerous stunning structures in Mahabalipuram impeccably portray the stunning architectural finesse of the Pallava dynasty, making it one of the best places to visit in Chennai. Declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site, the architectural marvels are the eye-witness of the gruesome wars and proudly stand today to tell the tales of grit, valor, glory, and royalty. 

Mahabalipuram is a dream destination for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and people keen on ancient Traditional Tamilian art. Go on a shopping spree on the local streets selling souvenirs, like handicrafts, artistic treasures, and stone sculptures, which allow you to relive the priceless moments of the trip to Chennai.

Prominent Things To Do: Uncover the Shore Temple, Krishna’s Butter Ball, Arjuna’s Penance, Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple, Krishna Cave Temple, and Tiger Caves.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM 

Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days.

Book your dream Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai with Guide, Lunch, Entrances tour package here.

5. Admire The Stunning Architecture Of The Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Tracing its roots to the 7th Century, the  Kapaleeshwarar temple is one of the most revered places, which attracts history buffs and architecture enthusiasts around the world. The  Kapaleeshwarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshiped in the form of a Mylai or peahen. The temple is the beacon of intricate Dravidian architecture perfectly depicting the finesse of the ancient era, attracting art lovers worldwide. 

Location: 234, Ramakrishna Mutt Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

Prominent Things To Do: Explore the idols of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal. Explore the delicately designed gopurams and the frescoes. Visit during special occasions like the Arubathimoovar festival, etc.  Witness daily morning rituals. Savor the religious offerings, known as Puliyodharai, during the evening.

Kapaleeswarar Temple Timings: 5:00 AM- 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM

Best Time To Visit: October to February

Kapaleeshwarar Temple Entry Fee: Free

6. Scuba Diving At Covelong Beach

As the temperatures are on the rise, taking a dip in the Chennai waters is a perfect escape from the city heat. If you are a keen adventure enthusiast and willing to engage in some exhilarating water activities, scuba diving perfectly fits the bill for the fun things to do in Chennai. Covelong Beach is the ideal destination which is an amalgamation of arresting landscapes and perfect diving spots to explore underwater life.

Where: Some of the best places that offer the ultimate scuba diving experience are Salty Bone Divers, Chennai Institute Of Diving, Dive Chennai, Chennai Dive Paradise and DriveIndia Chennai.

Scuba Diving Cost: From INR 5,500 per person approximately.

7. Enjoy Paintball Shooting With Buddies 

One of the best things to do with friends is to engage in an energetic paintball session. If you and your buddies are fond of war and shooting games, then get your combat suits on and load your weapons to shoot paint balls on your opposing gang. Engaging in a paintball session is one the coolest things to do with friends, allowing you to put your shooting skills to the test.

Where: The Wild Tribe Ranch, Esthell Adventure Park, and Planet Adventure Paintball.

Ticket Cost for Paintball Sessions:

Session Timings: From INR 400 per person approximately.

Monday-Thursday: 10:00 AM– 8:30 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Weekend: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

8. Go Bird Sighting At Pulicat Lake

Known as one of the fun things to do in Chennai, Pulicat Lake is home to numerous bird species that call it home, attracting tourists worldwide. The lake is a haven for bird enthusiasts, as you can catch glimpses of migratory birds that travel from various corners of the world. Every year, from October to March, the banks of the lake bustle with migratory birds like flamingos, cranes, ducks, painted storks, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, and cranes, etc.

Prominent Things To Do: Pulicat Lake, Pulicat Bird Sanctuary and Dutch Cemetery. Bird watching, and Flamingo Festival.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Ideal Trip duration: A day tour.

9. Explore The Outer Space At The Birla Planetarium

Satiate your curiosity and have all your queries about space answered at one of the largest museums in India, the Birla Planetarium. Located in the Periyar Science and Technology Center campus, the planetarium houses numerous exhibits about space that will keep you engaged for hours. Taking a sneak into space, engaging in various space programs, and exploring other exhibits make it one of the fun things to di with friends and family.

Location: Gandhi Mandapam Road, Duraisamy Nagar, Kotturpuram, Chennai – 600025

Prominent Things To Do: DRDO Pavilion, Witness various shows like comets, Moon, shooting meteoroids, stellar cycle, deep sky, Solar System, sky and seasons, etc. Watching 3D shows, Exploring exhibits, Checking the Science on a Sphere program, and Observing the dazzling night sky.

Birla Planetarium Chennai Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM( Everyday)

Birla Planetarium Chennai Entry Fee:  

Adults: INR 30 per person

Children Less than 12 years: INR 15 per person

Periyar Science and Technology Center Entry Fee

• Periyar Science and Technology Center Entry fee: Adults: INR 30 per person
• Children Below 12 years: INR 15 per person

Birla Planetarium 3D Science Movie Entry Fee

• Adults: INR 20 per person 
• Children Below 12 years: INR 20 per person

Package Fee (Science Centre, Planetarium, 3D Science Movie & Science Park)

• Adults: INR 60 per person
• Children Below 12 years: INR 30 per person

Book Your Chennai Airport Transfers: Budget Sedan and SUV Cabs here.

10. Explore Stunning Art Works At The National Art Gallery

Built in the year 1907 the National Art Gallery was built by T. Namberumal Chetty is one of the oldest museums in Chennai. Proudly adorning the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, which is one of the fun things to do in Chennai. Strolling around the gallery allows you to explore the Mughal Miniature Paintings from the late 17th-18th century,  Rajput paintings, Kangra Paintings, Tanjore paintings from the 19th century AD, and art pieces by the South Indian School of Arts. There are various sections of the gallery that exhibit mesmerizing artworks of renowned artists like Jamini Roy, D.P Roy Chowdhury, Adhimoolam, K.C.S. Panicker, Nandlal Bose, and Vaidhyanathan to name a few of the list.

Location: 3794+RF9, Pantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008

Prominent Things To Do: Visual Storage Facility, Explore paintings of Raja Ravi Verma. Visit the Rock and Cave Art Gallery.

National Art Gallery Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Friday And National Holidays: Closed

National Art Gallery Entry Fee: Adults: INR 15 per person

Children: INR 10 per person

Best Time To Visit: November to February.

11. Go Rock Climbing At FitRock Arena

Treating yourself to an exhilarating rock climbing session is one of the best things to do with your friends. The best possible alternative to gyms is engaging in rock climbing sessions as it is the dire test of your core to keep yourself fit. The icing on the cake is that you don’t need to worry about the blistering sun or torrential rains, as the rock climbing activity is an indoor activity. Do not be fooled by it being an indoor activity, FitRock Arena will test you to the limit, which is a perfect strength-related activity. 

Location: FitRock Arena, 73, Venkatakrishna Rd, Perumal Koil Thottam, Ramakrishna Nagar, Raja Annamalai Puram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028 Rock Climbing Entrance Fee: INR 700 for a 2-hour session approximately.

12. Have A Fun Day At MGM Dizzee World

Are you looking for a destination, where you can have a fun-filled day with your family and friends? Then look no further, MGM Dizzee World is a perfect destination. One of the oldest and largest amusement parks in India, MGM Dizzee World will satiate your adventurous soul. Engaging in thrilling and engaging rides is ideal for all ages.

Location: MGM Dizzee World, 1/74, SH 49, Muttukadu, Tamil Nadu 600112

MGM Dizzee Entrance Fee: Children: INR 549 per child, Adults: INR 699 per person MGM Dizzee World Timings: Weekdays: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Weekends: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM

13. Walk Back In Time At The Government Museum

Are you in the mood to get insights into the enriching bygone era? Take a tour of the Government Museum, which allows you to uncover the rich tales of the ancient era. Established in 1851, the Government Museum is the second oldest museum in India, which is known for its collection of archeological and numismatics artifacts. Taking a stroll through the 46 sections at the museums allows you to get insights into various fields like zoology, natural history, sculptures and Amravati paintings to name a few of the list.

Location: Government Maternity Hospital, Pantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008

Prominent Things To Do: Explore the Museum Theatre, Connemara Public Library, Children’s Museum

Government Museum Timings: Everyday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM 

Government Museum Ticket Prices:

Students: INR 5 

Children (Below 12 years): INR 10

Adults: INR15 per person

14. Enjoy Your Day At The VGP Marine Kingdom

Previously known as VGP Golden Beach Resort, VGP Universal Kingdom is the go-to destination for having a relaxing and fun-filled day with family and friends. Located on the beachfront, the happening park comprises various rides that will satiate your thrill and adventure, which is perfect for all ages. Ranked among the top 100 Theme Parks in the world, visiting the park is one of the fun things to do while here.

Location: SH 49, Injambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600115

Prominent Things To Do: Explore the various sections like Deep Sea, Rain Forest, Gorge, Coastal, and Mangrove Forest. VR Zone, Scuba Diving, and Live Feeding Show.

VGP Marine Kingdom Entry Tickets: 

General Entry Fee( Above 125 cms): INR 695 per person

Junior Entry Fee(90 cms to 125 cms): INR 595 per person

Combo Ticket

Junior Entry Fee(90 cms to 125 cms): INR 1190

General Entry Fee( Above 125 cms): INR 1370

VGP Marine Kingdom Timings: 

Weekdays: 9:30 AM- 7:30 PM

Weekends: 9:00 AM-8:00 PM

15. Feast On Sumptuous Delicacies

The city of Chennai is not only renowned for its rich history, culture, hair-raising outdoor activities, picturesque landscapes, and alluring tourist destinations but also its sumptuous traditional cuisines. Indulging in some regional and international cuisines to suit your palate, allows you to curb the tiredness after a day-long tour. The day is incomplete without indulging in sumptuous cuisines at some of the best restaurants are:

• The Wharf by Radisson Blu– Radisson Blu Temple Bay, 57, E Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Chennai.
• Sea Crest Restaurant: 1/74, SH 49, Muttukadu, Chennai
• Surf Turf: 10, Pearl Beach, Ansari Nagar, Kovalam, Chennai
• Taj Fisherman Cove:  Vivanta by Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Covelong Beach, Off East Coast Road (ECR), Kovalam, Chennai.
• Mash Resto Café: T 54 B, 1st Floor, Elliots Beach Road, Besant Nagar, Chennai.
• Boats Beach Restobar: 17, 5th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai.

Also Read: 10 Ideal Tourist Places Near Chennai Within 100 kms

Concluding Words

If you are planning to spend at least a few days in Chennai, the above-mentioned best things to do in Chennai are the ones you shouldn’t miss. Do let us know which of the aforementioned listicles of best things to do in Chennai made it to the top of your list and etched a mark in your hearts forever.

Some of the best things to do with family are Arignar Anna Zoological Park, DakshinaChitra Museum, Chennai Snake Park Trust, VGP Universal Kingdom and B.M. Birla Planetarium, etc. to name a few.

Chennai is famous for its hair-raising adventure activities like Surfing, Trekking, ATV Rides, Camping in the hills, Surfing, Paintball, Parasailing, Laser Tag, Rock Climbing, Cycling, Paramotoring, etc, to name a few of the unending list.

Some of the best places for engaging in a thrilling trek are Mamallapuram Lighthouse Trek, Nagalapuram Trek, Tada Falls Trek, Trek to Talakona Waterfalls, Parvathamalai Mountain Trek, Gingee Fort Trek, Krishnagiri Fort Trek, and Trek to Peerumedu Waterfalls, Yelagiri.

If you are looking for some excitement, treating yourself with an exhilarating ATV ride is perfect. Off-Road Sports is one of the best adventure sports centers which is a world-renowned destination to treat you and your friends to thrilling activities to keep you engaged for hours.

Some of the best destinations for a wildlife safari in Chennai are Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Guindy National Park, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, and Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.

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Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: west side of town, nexus vijaya mall.

Arulmigu Vadapalani Murugan Temple

Semmozhi Poonga

Government museum chennai, where to eat, the park chennai, mathsya egmore, copper chimney, kailash kitchen, express avenue, m. a. chidambaram stadium, dr mgr memorial, marina beach, arulmigu sri parthasarathy perumal temple tiruvallikeni, wild garden, writer's cafe - egmore, popular road trips from chennai (madras), what's the weather like in chennai (madras).

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Chennai (Madras) for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Chennai (Madras) in January
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All road trips from Chennai (Madras)

• Chennai (Madras) to Bengaluru drive
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• Chennai (Madras) to New Delhi drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Kochi (Cochin) drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Jaipur drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Munnar drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Tirupati drive
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• Chennai (Madras) to Kodaikanal drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Pune drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Kathmandu drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Udaipur drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Madurai drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Thekkady drive
• Chennai (Madras) to Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) drive
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• Chennai (Madras) to Kalpetta drive
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Explore nearby places

• Chennai (Madras)
• Thirumazhisai
• Sriperumbudur
• Hanumanthapuram
• Mahabalipuram
• Chengalpattu
• Thirukalukundram
• Kanchipuram
• Samayapuram
• Thiruputkuzhi
• Uttiramerur
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• Melmaruvathur
• Acharapakkam
• Srikalahasti

All related maps of Chennai (Madras)

• Map of Chennai (Madras)
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Home • Kid • Play And Activities

30 Famous Places To Visit In Chennai With Your Kids

The coastal city packs several surprises and awe-inspiring picturesque locations to explore.

Harshita is a graduate in commerce and holds a PG Diploma in Patent and Copyrights Law from NALSAR University. She has also pursued CA and has more than three years of internship experience in auditin... read full bio

Deepa Rachel Thomas holds a master’s degree in English from the English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad. She has done a certification course in Child Development and worked as a mentor for... read full bio

Image: MomJunction Design Team

The largest library in South Asia, second longest beach in the world, the birthplace of South Indian cinema, Detroit of India, cultural capital of India – ring a bell?

You got it right! We are talking about the city of Chennai in Tamil Nadu, which stands among the top 50 largest urban centers in the world.

Chennai, also known as the “Gateway to South India,” is a city full of exciting places to visit for kids. From forts to zoos to art galleries and shopping centers, there’s something for every child to enjoy.

Nicknamed The Gateway to South India, Chennai plays the self-appointed keeper of the South Indian traditions and culture . The city has numerous temples, malls, amusement parks, museums, beaches, parks and historical monuments that make up the must-to-visit tourist attractions in Chennai.

MomJunction gives you a list of places to visit in Chennai with your children.

Beaches In Chennai

Image: Shutterstock

The warm and friendly city of Chennai lies along the Coromandel coast, which makes it privy to some of the prettiest beaches in the region. A trip to one or more of these beaches is one such prior things to do in Chennai on your vacation.

1. Marina Beach

The Marina is perhaps the most visited beaches in Chennai. The world’s first natural urban beach, Marina promenade stretches to 6.5km or 4 miles . The total length of the beach is 13km, which makes it the second largest natural urban beach in the world. Approximately 30,000 people visit the beach every day.

Where: From Fort St. George to Foreshore Estate, Chennai

Attractions: An aquarium near the beach, walk along the beach, horseback riding, and water sports.

Hours: Recommended time of visit – 6am to 7pm

Entry fee: Nil

Amenities: Car parking, food stalls

Things to consider: The undercurrents of the Marina beach are pretty strong, so take extra care with kids. Do not leave them unattended in the water.

Prakalya Prakash, a blogger, shares his experience of staying in Chennai for three days for business reasons. He says, “I stayed in Nungampakkam which is very close to the iconic ‘Valluvar Kotam’. It is a historical monument honoring Thiruvalluvar, a Tamil poet who wrote Thirukural, a work of 1330 verses divided into 130 chapters. Mr. M. Karunanidhi constructed it in the 1970s. The place is known for its magnificent chariot which is 40m in height.I also made time to visit the ICF (Indian coach factory) museum set up by Indian Railways. Couple of other places I visited were — Besant nagar beach, Marina beach and the lighthouse. I would say the Besant nagar beach is a must visit if you are planning for Chennai ( i ).”

2. VGP Golden Beach

A private beach managed by the VGP Universal Kingdom amusement park, the VGP Golden Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Chennai. The beach has been one of the most preferred locations for movie shooting. It is a safe place to go swimming under the watchful eye of the guides. It is also one of the cleanest beaches in Chennai.

Where: Injambakkam, Chennai

Attractions: The private stretch of the marina is beautiful and clean. Rides in the Aqua Kingdom, Panneer fort, and statue man (see if you can move him), VGP 2000 millennium tower are other tourist attractions.

Hours: 11am to 7:30pm

Entry fee: Rs.350 for adults and Rs. 300 for kids for the VGP Universal Kingdom, Rs. 475 for adults and Rs. 375 for children for the Universal Kingdom and the Aqua Kingdom

Amenities: Car parking, food stalls, restrooms

Things to consider: If you are looking for an economical and comfortable way to spend the entire day at the beach, the VGP Golden Beach is it.

3. Covelong Beach

Covelong is a serene fishing village and another best place to visit in Chennai. The beach stretches along the Bay of Bengal, towards Mahabalipuram . The blue and white sea waters and the white, shiny sand make for a picturesque view on a bright, sunny day.

Where: 40km from Chennai

How to reach: Private vehicles, taxis, and buses

Attractions: Adventure sports, walk along the beach, ruins of a Dutch fort and fishing

Amenities: Parking, restaurants with restrooms

Things to consider: It is a quiet beach ideal for relaxing. You might want to consider visiting it only if you have time to spare.

4. Breezy Beach

An isolated beach in the vicinity of Chennai, Breezy Beach is a great spot for a quick swim or a quiet picnic with the family. If you do not want to spend too much time here, just be there at sunset to have a breathtaking view.

Where: Valmiki Nagar, Chennai

Attractions: Sunset point, boat rides are sometimes offered by local fishermen

Amenities: Parking on the roadside

Things to consider: While Breezy beach is one of the best beaches in the city, it may not be the most exciting beach to take your kids to in Chennai.

5. Elliot’s Beach

Elliot Beach is another quiet beach that people in Chennai visit to get away from the noisy city. The beach is beautiful and has several food stalls around, with ample parking space. If you visit the beach early in the morning, you can spot flamingos and pond herons.

Where: Besant Nagar, Chennai

Attractions: The beach is quiet and makes an ideal spot for a relaxing evening.

Amenities: Parking, food stalls

Things to consider: If your plan is to spend some time at the beach, Elliot’s Beach is a better and less-crowded alternative to the Marina beach.

Museums In Chennai

Does history intrigue you? Do you want to learn about the history of Chennai or Tamil Nadu? Then make sure you include one or more of these best places to visit in Chennai with family.

6. Government Museum

The second oldest museum in the country, the Government Museum or the Madras Museum has more than 40 galleries dedicated to archeology, numismatics, geology, botany, art, anthropology, and zoology. The museum complex, which is an architectural marvel in itself, opened in 1854 and has the largest collection of Roman antiques outside of Europe .

Where: Egmore, Chennai

Attractions: Children’s Museum and Dolls gallery are favorites among kids. The Roman antiques gallery, contemporary arts gallery that showcases art history of Tamil Nadu and Tanjore painting gallery are a must see.

Days open: All days except Fridays and National Holidays

Hours: 9:30am to 5pm

Entry fee: For Indians – Rs.15 per adult and Rs.10 per child, Rs. 5 for bonafide students, Foreign nationals – $5 per adult, $2.5 per child and $1.5 for bonafide students

Amenities: Parking and guide services

Things to consider: The museum is huge – it can take you over half-a-day to visit all the galleries.

7. Dakshinachitra

Image: IStock

For a thorough understanding of the culture and traditions of southern India, a visit to Dakshinachitra is a must. The living museum of performance arts, crafts and culture showcases the lifestyles of people in the four southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Where: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Attractions: Vernacular architecture – regional houses from the four states recreated for visitors; folk performances, glass blowing demo

Days open: All days, except Tuesdays and Diwali

Hours: 10am to 6pm

Entry fee: For Indians Rs. 100 per adult, Rs. 30 per child, Rs. 50 for students, Foreign nationals Rs. 250 for adults, Rs. 70 for students

Amenities: Parking, restaurant.

Things to consider: Dakshinachitra also organizes workshops for kids and adults. Check their calendar online to know more.

8. Railway Museum

Image: Chennai Rail Museum

Trains excite kids, which makes the Chennai Railway Museum one of the places you should visit with children. From running models to miniature rail networks and souvenirs, the museum features a variety of exhibits that appeal to kids. The museum also has a children’s park and vintage engine models on display.

Where: Villivakkam, Chennai

Attractions: Joyrides, AV shows, Fowler ploughing engine, and scaled models of several trains from India, before and after Independence.

Days open: All days, except Mondays

Entry fee: Rs. 10 per person

Amenities: Car Parking

Things to consider: Try and make it to one of the AV presentations that the museum has every hour.

9. National Art Gallery

The National Art Gallery is one of the museums in the Government Museum, Chennai. The gallery has a wide collection of arts and crafts, especially paintings from the 14th and 15th centuries. Children would love the rock and cave art showcased in this gallery. The museum also displays paintings of renowned painter Raja Ravi Varma.

Attractions: Thanjavur paintings, Ravi Varma paintings, Bronze sculptures, rock and cave art and ancient manuscripts

Days open: All days, except Friday

Hours: 10am to 5pm

Things to consider: This is purely for art and craft lovers. It could be an inspiration to aspiring artists.

10. Vivekananda House

Swami Vivekananda is a source of immense inspiration to the young. Visit the Vivekananda House, a landmark in Chennai, where Swami Vivekananda stayed for nine days after his return from the US . The house is now a museum that showcases the rich Indian culture and the life of Swami Vivekananda when he stayed there.

Where: Triplicane, Chennai

Attractions: Experience Vivekananda initiative, an excellent way to understand the man and what he stood for.

Days open: All days except Mondays

Hours: 10am to 12:15pm and 3pm to 7pm

Entry fee: Rs.10 per adult, Rs. 5 per child

Amenities: Limited parking

Things to consider: The museum is opposite Marina beach. You can club your visits to the beach and the museum to save time.

Historical Places In Chennai

The city’s rich history is evident from the many historical monuments it houses. Here are some of the Chennai’s tourist attractions you should visit with kids.

11. Fort St. George

St. George Fort is the first English fortress that was built in India, in 1644. The fort is an architectural marvel and currently houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly. The fort also has a museum that showcases medallions, coins, paintings and letters belonging to the East India Company personnel who lived here.

Where: Rajaji Salai, Chennai

Attractions: St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in India, and the St. George Museum

Hours: 9am to 5pm

Entry fee: Rs. 5 per person for Indian citizens and $2 for foreign nationals (entry free for children up to 15 years of age)

Amenities: Parking, restrooms, food stalls/canteens

Things to consider: The visit to the fort can be an educational trip for your kids. It can be an exciting experience but not a place to have fun or folly (the Tamil Nadu Assembly is in the same building!)

12. Alamparai Fort

The Alamparai Fort was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Empire, and is another good place to visit near Chennai. The French later seized the fort and then the British empire, when it was partly demolished. At present, you can only see the ruins of the fort with the beautiful backwaters of the Bay of Bengal on one side.

Where: 100km from Chennai

Attractions: Picturesque backwaters and the ruins, which have made it a favorite spot for filmmakers, bird-watching, photography, and boating.

Days open: All days

Hours: Recommended time of visit – 9am to 5pm

Amenities: Parking on roadside

Things to consider: The Alamparai Fort is in a secluded area that makes it less ideal for families and kids. Go there during daytime for a good view of the backwaters.

13. Tranquebar

Tranquebar, now known as Tharangambadi, is home to Dansborg, a 400-year-old fort built by the Danish invaders. An erstwhile port city for the rulers Cholas and Pandyas, the small port town is now a tourist hub with resorts and other facilities. In addition to the fort, there is a 300-year-old church and a museum that the kids may be interested in.

Where: 270km from Chennai

How to reach: Buses, private vehicles, and taxis

Attractions: The Dansborg Fort, the Town Gate, Zion Church and the Ziegenbalg Museum Complex

Hours: Overnight stay is necessary to cover all the sights in the region

Amenities: Accommodation, restaurants

Things to consider: It takes nearly eight hours to reach Tranquebar from Chennai. Unless you have that kind of time, this place should not be on the itinerary.

14. Valluvar Kottam

A favorite monument in Chennai, Valluvar Kottam is a memorial to a famous Tamil poet, philosopher and saint Thiruvallur. The monument is a 39-meter high chariot that houses a statue of the saint. It is a tribute to the poet’s work called Thirukkal, which has 133 chapters with ten verses each. There is also an auditorium that often hosts classical programs.

Where: Nungambakkam, Chennai

Attractions: The monument stands on a lake and was built without a pillar for a base. The magnificently carved stone chariot appeals to kids and adults alike.

Hours: 8:30am to 5:30pm

Amenities: Parking, restrooms, food stalls

Things to consider: While the kids may be fascinated by the size of the stone chariot, they may not comprehend the importance of the monument or the poet’s works.

15. Kolli hills

Kolli Hills, also known as Kolli Malai, is a small mountain range situated in central Tamil Nadu, spanning across the Namakkal district and Tiruchirapalli District of India. The range derives its name, Kolli Malai, from the goddess Etukkai Amman (also referred to as Kollipavai), who is believed to guard the hills with her divine protection. The Kolli hills are prominently mentioned in various classical Tamil literary works, and the area was ruled by Valvil Ori, who is considered to be one of the seven great philanthropists of ancient Tamil Nadu in around 200 CE.

Where:  330 km from Chennai

How to reach: Trains (Salem is the nearest railway station), private vehicles and buses.

Attractions: Agaya Gangai waterfall, Arappaleeswarar temple, Masila falls, Namma Aruvi falls, Botanical garden

Days open:  All days

Hours: 6 am to 6 pm. Overnight stay at the resorts can give a better experience.

Amenities: Shops, resorts

Things to consider: You have to climb a total of 1302 steps up and down to see Agaya Gangai waterfall. So, the journey might be a little difficult and tiring as the steps are steep.

Malls And Entertainment Places In Chennai

There is no dearth of malls or amusement parks in this metropolitan city. Here are our picks for malls and amusement or entertainment places to see in Chennai.

16. Forum Vijaya Mall

A mall is a perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or traveling. Forum Vijaya Mall is huge and has a spacious food court that serves different cuisines to tickle your taste buds. The mall also has a play area for kids with mini slides, basketball, and cars. The play area and the food court are divided by a glass wall, allowing parents to watch over their children while they eat.

Where: Vadapalani, Chennai

Attractions: Play Zone has video games, mini rides for kids, crane and puzzle games and other redemption games. The mall also has a toy train ride for younger kids.

Hours: 10am to 10pm

Amenities: Parking, restrooms and restaurants

Things to consider: Kids will have a gala time playing in the Fun Zone, but there are only so many games you can play there.

17. Spencer Plaza

Image: flickr.com creativecommons.org

A modern mall that was built back in the days of the British Raj, Spencer Plaza is India’s oldest shopping mall and a landmark in Chennai. The old-fashioned mall is home to many brand stores, private banks and organizations, and restaurants. The mall also has over 15 Sri Lankan brand stores where you can get the finest Ceylon tea, spices, clothing, and footwear.

Where: Anna Salai, Chennai

Attractions: Good food for less, one place where you can bargain and get good stuff at lower prices.

Amenities: Parking, restrooms, restaurants

Things to consider: Spencer Plaza is the oldest mall in the country and was made purely for business. There may not be a lot of things that appeal to kids here.

18. Express Avenue Mall

The Express Avenue Mall is one your kids will love as it has the largest gaming arcade in South India. The mall has a play area called Fun City, which has more than the usual rides you find in a mall. Express Avenue also has a 5D movie theater that older kids may enjoy. Other than that, the restaurants are great, and there is so much to buy that you can shop till you drop.

Where: Roypettah, Chennai

Attractions: Fun City

Hours: 10:30am to 9:30pm

Amenities: Parking, restaurants and restrooms

Things to consider: If you have a day to spare between sightseeing and traveling around, use it to visit the Express Avenue. Your kids will love it.

19. Queens Land

Image: creativecommons.org

Queens Land is an amusement park in Chennai that has over 50 rides. In addition to the joy rides, the amusement park has all the amenities that make it an excellent place for a fun family time. Of the 50 rides, 18 are for kids, and that means your day at the park will have no wasted time!

Where: Chembarambakkam, 13.3 km from Chennai

Attractions: Cable Cars, Himalayan Water Ride, Wave Pool, Bumper Cars, Orchestra, Go Karting, Frog Slide and Thumbrole.

Hours: 9:30am to 6pm

Entry fee: Rs. 550 for adults, Rs. 450 for children

Things to consider: The amusement park is huge and spread over an area of 70 acres. You may not be able to complete all the rides in one day. So choose wisely.

20. MGM Dizzee World

MGM is a household name in Chennai. The Dizzee World is one of the largest amusement parks in Chennai and offers more than 35 fabulous joy rides for kids and adults. The park also has an amphitheater, and an exclusive children’s zone called Marryworld. The park also offers hot air balloon rides for the entire family!

Where: Muttukadu, Chennai

Attractions: Hot air balloon rides, boating, MGM express, wave pool, splash pool and a simulator ride called Imagine.

Hours: Weekdays – 10:30am to 6:30pm Weekends and public olidays – 10:30am to 7:30pm

Entry fee: Rs. 599 per adult, Rs. 499 per child (includes all rides and water park access)

Amenities: Parking, food court, restrooms, first aid

Things to consider: Avoid the adult rides for kids – they may be highly exhilarating for you, but scary for kids.

21. VGP Universal Kingdom

Once popular as VGP Gardens, the VGP Universal Kingdom is an amusement park along the Marina Beach. The proximity to the beach and a convenient location makes it an ideal hangout spot for locals and tourists alike. The park has a wide choice of joy rides for children, teens, adults and families. If you are lucky, you could spot a movie star or two in shooting a scene at the park.

Where: Injambakam, Chennai

Attractions: Statue Man, Dashing Car, Roller Coast, Water Chute, Jungle Car, and the Doll Kingdom. If you’re bored with the rides, you can go to the beach!

Hours: From 11am to 7.30pm on weekdays and till 8pm on weekends

Entry fee: Rs. 350 per adult and Rs.300 per child for the amusement park, Rs. 475 per adult and Rs. 375 per child for the amusement park and water park

Amenities: Parking, restaurant, restrooms, locker facility

Things to consider: Plan a visit to the VGP beach and the amusement park on the same day.

Lakes And Parks In Chennai

Lakes or parks – do they fascinate you? Look on for those beautiful visiting places in Chennai, which is a home to some rare birds and animals found in their natural habitats around the city or in the enclosed parks.

22. Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Chennai has a lot of firsts, including the first public zoo – the Arignar Anna Zoological Park or the Vandalur Zoo. The park is home to over 2000 species of plants and animals. It is also the largest zoo in India and has close to 50 species of mammals, 63 bird species, 31 reptile species, and a variety of fishes, amphibians and insects.

Where: Vandalur, Kanchipuram, 38.8km from Chennai

How to reach: Buses, private cars and taxis. Trains until Vandalur railway station

Attractions: Deer safari, Shark Aquarium, Nocturnal animal house, water birds habitat, lion safari, and serpentaria.

Days open: All days except Tuesdays

Entry fee: Rs. 30 per adult and Rs. 10 per child. Additional cost for safari vehicles

Amenities: Parking, food stalls, restrooms, and vehicle to tour the zoo

Things to consider: Touring the entire zoo will take at least four hours.

23. Semmozhi Poonga

Image: commons.wikimedia.org creativecommons.org

A relatively recent addition to Chennai’s list of parks, the Semmozhi Poonga is a botanical garden with over 300 species of plants. The park was developed around 80 trees that were in the area for years. Some of these trees are over 100 years old. Introduce your kids to a variety of plants including the cacti, bamboo and ficus varieties from China.

Where: Teynampet, Chennai

Attractions: The pond with ducks, the poonga at night, with colorful lights and the old trees that found a home in the garden.

Hours: 10am to 7pm

Entry fee: Rs. 5 per person

Amenities: Parking and restrooms; eatables or plastic bags are not allowed

Things to consider: This is a botanical garden, and may not be of appeal to all kids.

24. Pulicat Lake And Bird Sanctuary

The Pulicat Lake is the second largest saltwater lake in India. A significant portion of the lake lies in the state of Andhra Pradesh, with only 3% of it in Tamil Nadu. There is a bird sanctuary in the lake that attracts migratory birds like pelicans, painted stork, flamingos, and other birds every year.

Where: 93.3km from Chennai

Attractions: The scenic view of the lake combined with the variety of birds you can find there.

Hours: Recommended time of visit – 6am to 5pm. Best time to visit: November to February to see the migratory birds

Amenities: Parking

Things to consider: The Pulicat lake is under the threat of drying up completely in the next 100 years, due to pollution and silt. A trip to the lake can educate your kids about such ecological issues.

25. Muttukadu Lake

A picturesque lake in the city, Muttukadu Lake is known for its floating boat house. The facility is made of bamboo and is run by the Tamil Nadu tourism department and offers boating to explore the lake. You can also try speed boat rides and high-speed aqua scooter rides in the backwaters.

Attractions: Row boating, pedal boating and speed water biking, the TTDC sometimes conducts boat races here.

Entry fee: Nil; Visitors need to buy tickets for boat and scooter rides

Amenities: Parking, restaurant and restrooms

Things to consider: This is a great place for boating for families.

26. Odiyur Lake

The Odiyur Lake is enroute Mahabalipuram. The Mudaliarkuppam Boat House, established on the banks of the lake, is known for water-based activities like row boating, speed boating, kayaking and more. The facility is managed by the Tamil Nadu tourism department and has over 50 varieties of boats that you can try.

Where: 90km from Chennai

Attractions: Kayaking is a great option for adventurers. There are row boats, pedal boats and speed scooters for kids and families. Also, look for pretty pink flamingos, little grebe and different varieties of kingfishers.

Hours: 9am to 6pm

Entry fee: Nil; Tickets

Amenities: Parking, restaurants

Things to consider: The Mudaliarkuppam Boat House is farther than some of the other boat houses near Chennai. Carry binoculars to spot birds.

27. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary

If bird watching and identifying is your favorite pastime, the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a place you’ll love. Developed around the Vedanthangal lake, the sanctuary is home to grebes, egrets, cormorants, pintails, pond herons and sandpipers. The sanctuary also hosts migratory birds like the Australian gray pelicans, the glossy ibises and snake birds from Sri Lanka, painted storks from Siberia, spoonbills from Burma, open-billed storks from Bangladesh and the spot-billed ducks.

Where: 75km from Chennai

How to reach: Buses, private vehicles and taxis; train till Chengalpattu (24.4km from the sanctuary)

Attractions: Excellent place for bird watching – an estimated 5,000 birds fly into the sanctuary throughout the year.

Hours: Recommended time to visit – during day, early morning and before dusk

Entry fee: Rs. 5

Amenities: Parking on roadside, guides

Things to consider: You can also spot mammals like the wild boar, jackal and jungle cat here. This place is for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Other Kid-Friendly Places In Chennai

In addition to the ones mentioned above, these are a few other best places to visit in Chennai that will interest your kids.

28. Birla Planetarium

One of the few planetariums built by the Birla Foundation, the Birla Planetarium in Chennai is a great place to spend time with kids. It has eight galleries that are dedicated to physical science, innovation, transportation and energy among others. The planetarium also has two science shows frequently repeated during the day – one in English and the other in Tamil.

Where: Kotturpuram, Chennai

Attractions: The planetarium shows, rocket model in the science park

Days open: All days, except Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanthi

Hours: 10am to 5:45pm

Entry fee: Rs. 45 for adults and Rs.25 for children for complete planetarium package

Amenities: Parking, restrooms

Things to consider: If your kids have already been to a planetarium, they might not find this visit exciting.

29. The Theosophical Society

The Theosophical Society in Chennai is an interesting place for kids . Consider a visit to the society as an educational tour. You can visit the many temples within the premises, the old banyan tree, and the library filled with knowledge by world teachers like Jiddu Krishnamurti.

Where: Adyar, Chennai

Attractions: The sprawling Huddleston gardens on the premises and the Great Banyan Tree that occupies 40,000sft and is 450 years old.

Days open: All days except Sundays and public holidays

Hours: 8:30am to 4pm

Amenities: Parking and restrooms

Things to consider: If you are taking your kids there, you might want to know about the society beforehand.

30. Tada Falls

Tada Falls is a weekend getaway for many Chennai residents. The place is ideal for a small trek or hike with the kids, and the waterfall is a beautiful sight. The path to the falls is well developed and easy for kids to walk. You can even take a dip in the final pool if you feel like.

Where: 95km from Chennai

How to reach: Local trains, private vehicles and buses

Attractions: The waterfall and the small hike can be fun for kids and adults. You can even camp there if you have the gear.

Hours: Recommended time of visit – during the day

Amenities: Parking near the falls, no restrooms or food stalls

Things to consider: The trek may be tiring for younger kids.

A Brief History Of Chennai

The city was first formed as a Portuguese colony in the 1500s. The Dutch later ruled it, followed by the British and the French invaders, before Independent India made it the capital of Tamil Nadu state in 1956. It is believed that the name Chennai was derived from the name Damarla Chennappa Nayakudu, a Telugu king. Some say it is derived from the name of Lord Chenna Kesava Perumal. The city was later called Madraspattinam, which was a fishing village near the first English Fort.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is famous in Chennai to eat?

Chennai is a metro city that has people from all over the country. While you can find several dishes from around the world to eat in Chennai, this popular city is famous for its traditional foods. Idli, Dosa, Sambhar, Vada, Uttapam, Paniyaram, Appam, and Puttu are some delicious foods one can relish when visiting Chennai.

2. Which sweet is famous in Chennai?

Payasam is the traditional Tamil dish famous in Chennai. It’s usually made with rice, milk, sugar, coconut, and sometimes dry fruit. However, this sweet can also be made with other ingredients like vermicelli and broken wheat. Some other sweets one can devour while staying in Chennai are Mysore pak and Kozhukkatta.

3. What are some popular shopping destinations in Chennai for traditional and modern items?

In Chennai, several shopping destinations cater to both traditional and modern items. Places like T. Nagar, Pondy Bazaar, and Mylapore are known for their traditional products, such as textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. On the other hand, Phoenix MarketCity and Express Avenue are popular malls offering a diverse range of national and international brands for modern shopping.

These were some of the most loved places to visit in Chennai. To see most of these sites, you’ll have to stay for at least 15 days. However, if you only have a short stay, you might not be able to see all of these attractions. You can also consider visiting Chennai’s best attractions, such as beaches, animal sanctuaries, and amusement parks. Plan a trip to Chennai with your children and family; you will always cherish your time spent in the port city. Do not be surprised if it turns out to be one of your favorite destinations in India to visit.

Key Pointers

• Chennai is known as the cultural capital of India because of its deeply entrenched traditions.
• Chennai is famous for its beaches, museums, eateries, malls, and lakes.
• Kid-friendly places like Theosophical Society and Birla Planetarium teach children new things in a fun way.

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

Explore the best tourist places to visit in Chennai, India! From ancient temples to modern malls, there’s something for everyone. Come join us on this journey!

Personal Experience: Source

MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.

Harshita Makvana B.Com, PG Dip

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Fun Places to Visit with Friends in Chennai

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Places to Visit with Friends in Chennai

Here is the list of 12 fun places to visit with friends in chennai, 1. marina beach.

Situated in the city of Chennai in Tamil Nadu, Marina Beach is a natural urban beach along the Bay of Bengal. The beach is stretched out to a distance of 13 kilometres making it the longest natural urban beach in the country, second largest in the world and also the most crowded beach in India with almost 30,000 visitors a day.

2. Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Perhaps one of the most popular picnic spots in Vandalur, Kanchipuram District, the Arignar Zoological Park is an amazing place to discover the flora and fauna of the region. A favourite weekend spot with both children and adults alike, the Arignar Zoo is situated at a distance of 32 kilometres from  Chennai city. It is the largest zoo of its kind in South East Asia and is one of the amazing places to visit with friends in Chennai. In addition to having an extensive collection of endemic and exotic animals, visitors can experience the wild first hand with a trip to safari parks where lions and deer can be easily spotted.

3. Guindy National Park

Guindy National Park in Chennai is the dominant factor in contributing to the lush green cover of the city. Known to be the 8th smallest national park in the country, the land is blessed with dense forest area, scrub lands, lakes and streams etc. Boating of varied flora and fauna, and a rich wildlife, the park receives a large tourist influx throughout the year.

4. Breezy Beach

Breezy Beach lays in the remote and serene neighbourhood of Valmiki Nagar in Chennai. Being smaller and less polluted, it's a perfect getaway for anyone looking for a peaceful evening. This beach is not as popular and known as the Elliots beach, and is hence more quiet and peaceful. Evenings are very pleasant and breezy here, and in recent years, lots of tourists have been attracted towards this beach for its beauty.

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Tamil nadu temple tour package, pondicherry-mahabalipuram tour with kanchipuram, 4 nights bangkok & pattaya full board package (ex chennai), ooty group package from chennai, ooty group tour package from chennai, 5. elliot's beach.

Elliot's Beach aka "Besant Nagar Beach" or "Bessie" is located in Besant Nagar, Chennai. Also known as Besant Nagar Beach, It forms the end-point of the Marina Beach shore and is named after Edward Elliot (who was once the Chief Magistrate, Superintendent of Madras and Governor of Chennai during the British times). It has the Velankanni Church and the Ashtalakshmi Kovil in the vicinity. The mesmerising beach is one of the cleanest beaches in the city of Chennai.

6. Semmozhi Poonga

Opened in November 2010, Semmozhi Poonga is the first botanical park of Chennai. Boasting of over 500 species of plants, the collection includes herbs and medicinal plants as well. The entire park has been divided into 8 zones with an individual theme. The park is one of the best chilled out places to visit with friends in Chennai owing to its charm, beauty and bounteous nature.

7. VGP Universal Kingdom

Situated on the East Coast Road in Chennai, VGP Universal Kingdom is a magnanimous amusement theme park in the city. Besides the water park, the main highlights of the park are water cascades, Paneer forts, statueman, Millennium Tower etc.

8. Covelong Beach, Mahabalipuram

Located on the coastline of the Bay of Bengal near the village Covelong, Kovalam Beach was given the name 'Covelong' by the British due to their inefficiency of pronouncing "Kovalam". A perfect retreat amidst palm trees and silver sand, Covelong Beach was once set up as a port by Saadat Ali for Carnatic Nawabs. In 1746 the French took control of the place, and in 1752, the Britishers lead to its destruction. From the centuries earlier to the times after, the Beach has been transformed into one of the best excursion and picnic spots.

9. Gatsby 2000

One of the busiest places of Chennai, Gatsby 2000 never fails to amaze its customers with something new every time and ensure their presence every day of the week. This place is the ITC's Irish themed property and perfectly lives up to the best of its name. The place has a good ambience, amazing décor and great music. This place is the best of Chennai nightlife. There are two residents present in the nightclub, namely DJ Rudy and Prasanth Amir who ensure that you don't stop grooving to different types of Trap and Bollywood music that is produced by them. They have amazing concoctions available such as Long Island Iced Tea and Desi vodka Martini.

10. Wild Garden Cafe - Amethyst

What started off as a fashion and accessories store has now become a beautiful venture known as 'Wild Garden Cafe - Amethyst', which comprises of a flower shop, fashion and accessories shop, and a café, which is currently hugely popular amongst the masses. If you are café hopping in Chennai, it would just be foolish to miss out on this one. You can choose a favourable sitting arrangement in the enclosed area, or the garden or verandah. While the beverage section obviously draws the crowd constantly (especially their coffee), the main highlight is the availability of their amazing breakfast section 24/7. Oh, and, this is THE place to head to if you are looking for a romantic dinner out!

11. Camping in Chennai

Surrounded by a number of hills around it, Chennai neighbours to some amazing places that offer nearness to Nature. Every soul in any metro city craves for something new every now and then, and Chennai doesn’t lack in fulfilling this need for its people. There are a number of places to camp in Chennai for a twist out of the normal. One can never run out of places to get closer to something natural.

12. Kishkinta Theme Park

Situated in Tambaram in Chennai, Kishkinta is one of the most popular amusement theme parks in the city. With a range of rides and slides designed both for kids and adults, the spot is ideal for spending time with friends, family and loved ones. This beautiful Kishkinta Theme park in Chennai is one of the best places to visit with friends in Chennai.

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THE 10 BEST Chennai (Madras) Game & Entertainment Centres

Game & entertainment centres in chennai (madras).

• Movie Theatres
• Game & Entertainment Centres
• Paint & Pottery Studios
• Room Escape Games
• Sports Complexes
• Playgrounds
• Bowling Alleys
• Wedding Chapels
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Nungambakkam
• Nungambakkam/Marina Beach
• Besant Nagar
• Thiruvanmiyur East
• George Town/Parry’s Corner
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Bouncy House

2. Gameistry

3. Kartwheel

4. Kidoos Fun Park

5. Freeing India

6. Entizer Sportz

7. Airborne

8. hamleys play.

9. VR Galaxy

10. Jalato Experience Studio

11. G Sector - Lazer Tag

12. Uptown, Kathipara Urban Square

13. Dices And Drama

14. Untangle - House Of Puzzles

15. Nassaa UTH Hub

16. Madras Wheelers Skatepark

17. game on.

18. Kaleidozone

19. Gameweb World

20. soap football chennai.

21. Vr Game Cafe

22. vr galaxy.

23. Xtrablast

24. funzone, 25. rks exotic game center, 26. let's play - vr games, 27. untangle t.nagar.

28. Fundale

29. ELITE GAMER

30. soap football mogappair, what travellers are saying.

13 Fun Places to Visit in Chennai with Friends

Introduction

If there’s something you never get bored of in life, it’s hanging out with your friends. Be it a friend you’ve known for 10 years or the one you recently met, making plans to chill with them is something you look forward to, no matter how old you are. 

In a city like Chennai, there’s always room for entertainment and fun. Though Chennai is pretty famous for its spectacular beaches and amusement parks, there are more to the city than just that.

In this blog post, we have discussed in detail about top 10 places you can visit in Chennai with your friends. We have also mentioned details about each place to help you plan your day more efficiently. 

Keep reading to know more!

Table of Contents

Fun Places to Visit in Chennai with Friends

1. mystery rooms chennai.

Does your gang enjoy solving puzzles and mysteries? If yes, this is a must-visit spot in the city. Mystery Rooms in Nungambakkam has 5 escape rooms with themes like ‘Cabin in the woods- A Murder Mystery’ and ‘The Kon of Kohinoor- A Mission Impossible’. Each team is given 60 mins to solve the puzzle and escape the room. If you have a set of brainy friends, this is THE spot.

• Address: 24, 2nd Flr, College Rd, above Kora), BBCL Magnum, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600006
• Price range: ₹600 on weekdays and ₹800 on weekends for one person 
• Contact: 098990 09341
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Best time to visit: Weekends around 6 p.m.
• Things to do: Find clues to escape out of locked rooms
• Suggested duration: 1-2 hours

2. Wild Tribe Ranch

If adventure is your calling, this is just the place for you. Get ready to suit up and carry guns- it’s paintball time! Each player’s regular paintball gun comes with 40 pellets, so use your ammo wisely to avoid running out of pellets in the middle of the game. The place also offers other adventure activities like bungee jumping and ziplining.

• Address: 451-A, SH 49, Sri Kapaleeswarar Nagar, Neelankarai, Nemmeli, Tamil Nadu 600115
• Price range: ₹450 per person
• Contact: NIL
• Rating: 4.1/5
• Best time to visit: During the day
• Things to do: Adventure activities like paintball, bungee jumping, ziplining

3. SkyJumper Trampoline Park 

If you have friends who would love to fulfil their superman dreams, make sure you bring them here. Trampoline parks in Chennai are fun to play no matter how old you are. With all that jumping, running and flying, it brings out that inner child in you . SkyJumper Trampoline Park also lets you host birthday parties, corporate events, school trips and more.

• Address: Front Anchor Shop, 4th Floor Grand Square Mall, 137, Velachery – Tambaram Main Rd, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600042
• Price range: ₹400-₹900 (based on weekdays or weekends)
• Contact: 088822 88001
• Rating: 4.9/5
• Things to do: Play on trampolines 

4. Kart Attack

If you’re a fan of car racing games, it’s time to try it out for real. Kart Attack is a go-karting centre in ECR that lets you drive around the track and show off your driving/racing skills. For a group of friends, this is a great place to spend your day as you can race each other all day long (and feel good about winning, of course).

• Address: 7, Palm Garden Rd, Akkarai, Panaiyur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600119
• Price range:   ₹280-  ₹400 (based on time)
• Contact: 094455 51000
• Rating: 4.2/5
• Best time to visit: Weekends around 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Things to do: Play go-karting with friends
• Suggested duration: 30 mins to 1 hour

5. Covelong Beach

Chennai is famous for its many breathtaking beaches. Apart from having a leisurely stroll down the sand, the sunrises and sunsets of this beach can’t be missed! Covelong beach is situated on the Coromandel Coast, 40km from the city. Visiting the beach is a mini vacation in itself. Compared to other beaches, this one is also less crowded. 

Did you know? Covelong beach is also one of the first ever places to offer surfing lessons in Chennai!

• Address: Covelong, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Price range: ₹1,000- ₹6,000 (for water sports)
• Best time to visit: During sunrise and sunset
• Things to do: Windsurfing, fishing, kayaking, catamaran rides
• Suggested duration: 2-3 hours

6. Muttukadu Boat House

Muttukadu lake is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a great place to spend the day as it offers a variety of water sports like motorboats, rowboats, and water scooters, along with a food court. Given the diverse range of bird species you’ll see here, this is also a fantastic spot for bird watching and photography.

• Address: R64R+7VR, East Coast Road, Muthukadu, Tamil Nadu 603103
• Price range: ₹300- ₹1250 (Tariff per boat)
• Contact: +91 76995826
• Best time to visit: Around 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Things to do: Boating, windsurfing, rowing, speedboat riding, water skiing and bird watching
• Suggested duration: 3 hours

7. Soap Football

You absolutely don’t have to be a pro at football to visit this place or play a game. All you need to be is an enthusiastic person who enjoys sliding on slippery surfaces and falling down a hundred times. Soap football is your best bet if you plan a day out with a group of 10 or more friends. And don’t worry, no matter how often you fall, it’s perfectly safe here.

• Address: Building, No.144, 6th Floor, Sathak Centre, Nungambakkam High Rd, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600034
• Price range: Weekdays- ₹2,000- ₹2,500; Weekends- ₹3,000 (for a group of 10 for 60 mins)
• Contact: 096000 81839
• Rating: 4.4/5
• Best time to visit: Saturdays around 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Things to do: Play soap football
• Suggested duration: 1-2.5 hours

8. G Sector Lasertag

Nungambakkam’s G Sector Lasertag is one of the city’s first-ever laser tag places. Have fun shooting your friends in this colourful neon space with a UV-lit arena and dreamy visuals. The place also offers a comfortable lounge with books and a PlayStation area with exciting games. G Sector is also great for hosting small events like birthday parties and reunions with friends.

• Address: Kakani Tower, 15, Khader Nawaz Khan Rd, Thousand Lights West, Thousand Lights, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600006
• Price range: ₹350 per person for 20 mins
• Contact: 090032 00099
• Best time to visit: Around 12 p.m. and 6 p.m.
• Things to do: Play tag with friends
• Suggested duration: 1 hour

9. Nassaa Uth Hub

Every friend group has a mix of all kinds of people, from the adventure-loving sports enthusiasts to the ones who don’t want to move out of their couch. Nassa Uth Hub has got every friend group covered with its wide range of games and activities that will impress every one of you.

• Address:  5th Avenue, Elliot’s Promenade, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600090
• Price range: ₹100- ₹1,500 (based on the game)
• Contact: 088070 00300
• Rating: 4.7/5
• Best time to visit: Weekends around 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
• Things to do : Bowling, PS5, VR games, PC games, Rooftop cricket and football, Snooker, Arcade games, and Simulator games
• Suggested duratio n: 2-3 hours

10. Chaos Entertainment

Along the lines of Nassa Uth Hub, Chaos Entertainment is yet another entertainment hub that guarantees a fun and unique experience with your friends. From console gaming to football tournaments, you can spend an entire day with your friends at Chaos Entertainment without getting bored even for a minute!

• Address:  2/2, Old No 57, New No.38, Balaraman Road, near Ajna Infotech, Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600020
• Price range: ₹250 per person for a game
• Contact: 080723 09842
• Best time to visit: Weekends around 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Things to do : Console gaming, Futsal turf, Laser tag, VR Gaming

11. Open Mic and Stand-up shows

Chennai has a decent stand-up and open mic scene, with weekly shows happening around the city throughout the year. Unwind with your friends and enjoy a good laugh at these stand-up shows. If comedy is not your thing, you can always go to open mic shows and immerse yourself in poetry, music, or spoken word.

Places like Goody’s, SoCo at The Savera, Radioroom, Backyard, Medai- The Stage and more are some of Chennai’s most common spots for open mic and stand-up comedy shows.

• Price range: ₹200 onwards
• Best time to visit: Mid-week or Sundays
• Things to do : Enjoy live performances of artists
• Suggested duration : 1 hour

12. Resto bars

If you are in Chennai with your party-loving friends, you must experience the city’s nightlife! With a live DJ, a dance floor and some yum food and drinks, bars and pubs are the most happening places in the city. Especially on Saturday nights, the party never dies!

You can check out places like Sherlock’s Pub, Lord Of The Drinks, 6th Avenue, Level Up, 10 Downing Street, Watson’s and more to enjoy the best of Chennai’s nightlife. 

• Price range: ₹1,200- ₹2,000 approx. (for two people)
• Best time to visit: Weekends around 3 p.m. and 10 p.m.
• Things to do : Enjoy the live music, dance floor, food and drinks

13. Amusement Parks

If you crave adventure in your life, amusement parks are the perfect place for you to visit with your friends. With thrilling rides and fun games, time flies when you are here. Amusement parks are also a great spot to beat the summer heat and get some exercise, in a fun way!

The most popular amusement parks in the city include MGM Dizzee World, Queensland, VGP Universal Kingdom, VGP Snow Kingdom, Kishkinta, and Wonderla. 

• Price range: ₹550 onwards for adults
• Best time to visit: Weekends during the day
• Things to do : Rides and games, attractions, food, and other entertainment events
• Suggested duratio n: 3-4 hours

Chennai is a metropolitan city with a blend of both tradition and modernity in its people, architecture, food, culture and even festivities. You can find people from all over the country here and get to experience the best of cultures and events.

This was our list of the top 10 fun places to visit and things to do in Chennai with your gang. 

Let us know your favourite spot in the comments below! And if you are planning a fun and chill day out with your friends, make sure you check out these places. Chennai will guarantee you maximum fun and entertainment!

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Gulshan Bafna

Gulshan Bafna is one of the luxury travelers in India. He, along with his wife, has traveled to many exotic places that one could dream. With their travel journey, they bring us the best face of those places. He compiles all of his travel journeys to give the taste of traveling to his readers. In his writing, he jots down the best things to do in all those places that he has visited. Reading these would help one know better about the place. He is also a seeker who loves exploring and discovering new places and share his experiences with everyone.

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• 35 Best Places to Visit Near Chennai

Places to Visit Near Chennai 

Quick navigation, top 10 places to visit near chennai, yercaud - 358 km from chennai.

Among the best tourist places near Chennai, Yercaud is cuddled in the verdant green environs and undulating hills of Salem district of Tamil Nadu, places to visit in Yercaud are really mystical. Escape into the array of flora and fauna of this sleepy little getaway when here.

Place s to Visit in Yercaud : The stunning Yercaud Lake which is surrounded by gardens and woods is one you should not miss. The Pagoda Point is another site where you can catch the panoramic view of the enchanting town. Some other natural gems of Yercaud are the Kiliyur Waterfalls, Lady’s Seat, Silk Farm and Rose Garden, Deer Park, Bears Cave, Kottachedu Teak Forest and Anna Park.

Things to Do in Yercaud :  Enjoy camping, sightseeing as well as trekking up in the hills of Yercaud as you discover its little-known natural treasures.

Distance from Chennai:  358 km

Best time to visit:  October - June Where to stay:   Best Yeracaud resorts for a perfect stay .

Yelagiri - 227 km from Chennai

Get pleasantly lost in the magical hill station of Yelagiri, in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. Yelagiri is one of the best tourist places near Chennai. Have a tryst with the charming neighbourhood of tribal villages in here. It is because of the tranquillity and solitude of this hillock that Yelagiri scores high on the list of most popular weekend getaways around Chennai.

Places to Visit in Yelagiri:  Yelagiri is for those seeking an easy-paced holiday away from the madness of the city. Perhaps the signature landmark of the place is the Punganoor artificial lake-cum-park where tourists can enjoy a walk or some boating.

Additionally, the picturesque Swami Malai Hills is a dreamy treat to the eyes. One can even take a walk by the cascading waters of the majestic Jalagamparai Falls.

Things to do in Yelagiri :  Boating and sightseeing are some easy-paced activities one can entertain themselves with. However, for adventure aficionados, the Yelagiri Adventure Sports Association (YASA) offers a host of thrilling activities.

Distance from Chennai:  227 Km

Best time to visit:  November - February Whe re to stay:   Best resorts in Yelagiri for a perfect stay .

Must Check Out: Top places to visit in Chennai  

Top Experiences To Do in Yelagiri

Ooty - 547 km from Chennai

Although this cosy hill town is a little too messy for some tastes, the greenery quieter neighbourhoods of this place could easily be mistaken for an English countryside. 

A combination of charming British bungalows, temples, parks and gardens, and a number of places to visit in Ooty makes it the most popular hill station of South India and works as a welcome relief from the humdrum scenes of life. 

Places to Visit in Ooty : If we had to list down a number of tourist attractions in this scenic town, the Botanical Gardens, Rose Garden and Thread Garden are for those who appreciate living galleries of the natural flora of the Nilgiris.

Then comes St. Stephen’s Church, Tribal Research Centre Museum and Nilgiri Library. For those who want to bask in the misty scenery of the place, Doddabetta Lookout is a must-visit.

Things to do in Ooty :  Boating and sightseeing are the activities tourists love to indulge in when here.

Distance from Chennai:  547 km

Best time to visit:  May – June and December - February

Where to stay:   Best Resorts for a relaxing stay in Ooty .

Top Experiences To Do in Ooty

Kodaikanal - 518 kms from Chennai

One of the most sought after honeymoon destinations in the country, Kodaikanal, or Kodai as it is lovingly called, is the princess of Hill Stations and rightly so. Not only for the spectacular yet cosy serenity of the place that captivates the soul but for its multitude of phenomenal waterfalls that make this beautiful town the most visited weekend getaway from Chennai. The beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal make it best for the Honeymoon.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal : The views from Coaker’s Walk, Moir’s point, Green Valley view and Pillar rocks are stunning. Chettiar and Bryant Parks both are small, pretty, landscaped which explains its popularity amongst canoodling couples. Berijam Lake, Bear Shola Falls, and Silver Cascade are some of the natural treasures of this quaint little town.

Things to do in Kodaikanal :  Apart from rowing down the Berijam Lake and going on walks in the parks, one can indulge in a bit of trekking as they head to the various viewpoints here.

Distance from Chennai:  518 Kms

Best time to visit:  September - May Where to stay:   Resorts in  Kodaikanal with best amenities .

Top Experiences To Do in Kodaikanal

Best of Goa

Pondicherry - 161 kms from Chennai

Fondly termed as ‘Pondy’, this former French colony is a sea of tranquillity what with its quiet, clean cobbled streets and colonial townhouses aligned beside them. The vibe of the township is a faded colonial bohemian chic with a touch of new age international French culture.

The presence of the internationally recognized Sri Aurobindo Ashram lends in the peaceful yoga-like feel to the place. By popular demand, Pondy has earned itself a number on the list of most popular weekend getaways from Chennai.

Places to visit in Pondicherry : There are several sights of tourist interest in Pondicherry. The first that comes to mind is the French Quarter, a quaint little neighbourhood laced with cobbled streets, white and mustard romantic colonial buildings. The most well-known landmark is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram founded in 1926 that is un-missable when here.

A series of religious attractions are favourites here as well, namely Notre Dame des Anges, Our lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Sacred Heart Basilica and Sri ManakulaVinayagar temple.

Things to do in Pondicherry :  One can either indulge in a bunch of exhilarating water sports adventures or pamper themselves in the multitude of ayurvedic health centres and spa treatments.

Distance from Chennai:  161 Km

Best time to visit:  October - February

Where to stay:   Resorts for a Perfect stay in Pondicherry .

Top Experiences To Do in Pondicherry

• Pondicherry

Coorg - 597 kms from Chennai

A very popular hill station in the Kodagu district of Karnataka paints a pretty picture of the grandeur of nature. Nestled in the thick canopies of the Western Ghats, Coorg is everyone’s favourite weekend getaway because of the abundant coffee plantations, lush greenery and gorgeous landscapes it houses.

Places to Visit in Coorg : Coorg also has a number of local attractions to its credit, some of which include the Tibetan settlement of Bylakuppe, Talakaveri, Omkareshwara temple in Madikeri, and the picnic spot of Cauvery Nisargadhama.

This destination also has three wildlife sanctuaries – thePushpagiri and Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuaries and the Nagarhole National Park. Some of the animal species found in these wildlife parks include the Asiatic elephant, tigers, leopards and wild boars.

Things to do in Coorg :  This place is a hotspot for campers and mountain or quad biking enthusiasts. Rafting, microlight flying, and water rappelling are other adventure activities one can partake in when here.

Distance from Chennai:  597 km

Best time to visit:  September - May

Where to stay:  Best Resorts to stay in Coorg with best facilities .

Top Experiences To Do in Coorg

Munnar - 575 kms from Chennai

One of the most popular trekking destinations in South India, Munnar is situated approximately 583 kilometres from Chennai. Boasting of many lakes, waterfalls and forests, along with the clean environment, Munnar is one of the best places to visit for a weekend away from the bustling city life of Chennai.  Famous all around the world for its tea estates, Munnar is also the commercial centre for some of the largest tea plantations in the world. Moreover, it is also home to some endangered wildlife species, such as the Nilgiri Tahr and the Neelakurinji. Places to Visit in Munnar : The paradise of Munnar attracts tourists all over with its lush environs, lakes, waterfalls, forests that offer some spectacular flora.  Some notable tourist attractions in Munnar are Mattupetty Lake, Eravikulam National Park, Echo Point, Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary, Valara Waterfalls and Marayoor.Munnar is rich in tea plantations and hence is known to be one of the tea trade centres in India. Things to Do in Munnar:  Tourists visiting Munnar keep themselves occupied by indulging in paragliding, rock climbing, cycling and hang gliding activities. Nature walks, trekking and bird watching are also some of the other activities which one can pursue in Munnar. Distance from Chennai:  575 km Best time to visit:  August - May Where to stay:   Best resorts to stay in Munnar

Top Experiences To Do in Munnar

Kanchipuram - 72 kms from Chennai

Also known as the “Silk City”, the popular city of Kanchipuram is not only reputed for its world famous traditionally crafted silk sarees but also its culture and civilization with its glorious display of a thousand temples. If you aim to visit someplace religious, historical and entertaining altogether,Kanchipuram is one of the best weekend getaways around Chennai.

Places to visit in Kanchipuram:  Considered the city of thousand temples, Kanchipuram has temples that stand proof of the Dravidian legacy left behind some of which are Ekambareswarar, Kamakshi Amman, Devarajaswami and Kailasanathar.

Another must-visit sight is KanchiKudil, a 90 year ancestral home resembling the olden style of architecture of the entire town. Additionally, a prominent attraction is the Vedanthangla Bird Sanctuary is a bird watcher’s paradise.

Things to do in Kanchipuram:  Bird watching and sightseeing are forms of entertainment for tourists who visit the temple city.

Distance from Chennai:  72 km

Best time to visit:  September - March

Top Experiences To Do in Kanchipuram

• Kanchipuram

Best of Bangalore

Nellore - 177 kms from Chennai

Known for its great religious importance bestowed upon by the Telugu poet Tikkana Somayaji, Nellore is located around 177 kilometres from Chennai and is amongst the places that one should definitely visit when they are nearby. Lying alongside the banks of the Penna River, Nellore derived its name from “Nelluru,” where Nel means Paddy and Ooru stands for Place.  Nellore is known all around the country for its rich agriculture and is a major exporter of sugarcane, rice, sugarcane-based products, several other crops, as well as prawns and shrimps. The city also has quite a few ancient temples which are culturally and religiously significant and attracts many devotees all through the year. Places to visit in  Nellore:  The environs of Nellore offer some interesting places as tourist attractions namely the Pulicat Lake and the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary. Other attractions of a man-made nature are the Somasila Dam, Udaygiri Fort and SatishDhawan Space Centre. Things to do in  Nellore :   Sightseeing and bird watching are the prominent activities enjoyed by tourists here. Distance from Chennai: 177 Kms Best time to visit:  December - February

Rameswaram - 553 kms from Chennai

One of the holiest places to see in India and often considered the Varanasi of the south,Rameswaram, as ancient as the Ramayana, is among perfect weekend getaways from Chennai. The city is a pilgrimage centre being home to some of the most spectacular places of worship in the country. Apart from these pilgrims, Rameswaram is a small fishing town on an island by the name 

Places to Visit in Rameswaram : The esteemed Ramanathaswamy Temple that has the largest temple corridor in India is one religious site that is celebrated world over since the time of the Ramayana. Since Rameswaram is an important fishing centre of Tamil Nadu, visits to its neighbouring fishing villages are quite the tourist attraction.

While passing through the Pamban Bridge to reach Rameswaram, park your vehicle and enjoy the captivating view of the ocean as you feel the breeze in your hair.

Things to Do in Rameswaram:   Due to the rich cultural heritage of the place, sightseeing the most indulgent activity here.

Distance from Chennai:  553 Kms

Best time to visit:  October - April

Top Experiences To Do in Rameswaram

Places to Visit Near Chennai Within 200 Km

Mahabalipuram - 52 kms from chennai.

Listed as a World Heritage Site because of its ancient archaeological wonders, this fascinating place is also known as Mamallapuram or as some call it - “Mahabs” is one of the best places to visit near Chennai. It is a laid-back town which most travellers flock to.

Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram : The windswept Shore Temple is a sight worth catching on the water’s edge. Mahabs is known for the Five Rathas (sculptured temples in the shape of chariots) and Arjun’s Penance (huge carvings on a rock depicting scenes from the Mahabharata).

The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is a remarkable event that one cannot miss. Other religious sights are the Krishna Mandapa, Trimurti Cave Temple, Ganesh Ratha and Draupadi Ratha. The Sculpture museum is a treasure trove of the most magnificent sculptures and paintings in the city.

Things to Do in Mahabalipuram:  Bicycling tours to the neighbouring villages offer activities like rice and masala grinding as well as kolam or rangoli drawings. One can even indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and water sports.

Distance from Chennai:  52 km Best time to visit:  December - March

Top Experiences To Do in Mahabalipuram

• Mahabalipuram

Pulicat - 55 kms from Chennai

A small seashore township, Pulicat resides in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu on the island of Sriharikota dividing the Pulicat Lake from Bay of Bengal. Itis renowned for its invigorating sights worth catching a glimpse of.

Places to Visit in Pulicat : The major attractions of the place are the beach, the Dutch cemetery, Fort, church and particularly the bird sanctuary where a variety of migratory birds reside. Between December and January, the Tourism Board organizes the Flamingo festival when thousands of the bird species align on the swampy regions of the Pulicat Lake. Two neighbouring villages of Vedurupattu and Nelapattu are other attractions here.

Things to Do in Pulicat:  Bird watching is a prominent activity for tourists as they can catch sight of some of the most stunning species of migratory birds here. Several beach activities and water sports are other forms of entertainment in Pulicat

Distance from Chennai:  55 Kms

Best time to visit:  October - March

Best of Ooty

Tirupati - 135 kms from Chennai

One of the most important places to visit near Chennai, Tirupati is located around 133 kilometres away from the city. Situated in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is home to Tirumala, or Venkateshwara Temple, which is one of the most famous and important religious centres in India. Additionally, it is also one of the oldest Indian cities, having its name in the ancient Vedas and Puranas.  Tirumala, as it is popularly known, is also home to the seven peaks of the Tirumala Hills. Tirupati also has a unique geological wonder called the Silathoranam. It is a natural arch which is formed out of rocks and is located on the Tirumala Hills. It is one of the only three natural rock formations in the world and is thus an important archaeological monument. Places to Visit in Tirupati : One of the richest pilgrimage centres of any religion and regarded as the most visited temple in the world, TirumalaTirupatiDevasthanam is where you must stop at when in Tirupati. Another place of religion is the Venkateswara temple, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The geographical marvel that is a naturally formed rock bridge called Silathoranam adds to the beauty of the city. But one cannot miss the evergreen ornate heaven beyond the hillocks of the TirumalaTirupatiDevasthanam that is the TTD Gardens. Things to Do in Tirupati:  The activity enjoyed by tourists here is sightseeing since the city has a ton of magnificent historical monuments to offer. Distance from Chennai: 135 km Best time to visit:  September - March You Can Also Book:  Dhow Cruise Dubai Creek

The Fort City of Tamil Nadu, as it is affectionately called, Vellore has the perfect blend of rich cultural heritage reminiscent of the ancient Dravidian civilization as well as picturesque scenery. Thus it is an ideal weekend getaway from Chennai. Vellore and Yelgiri are among the best Hill stations near Bangalore . 

Places to Visit in Vellore:  A monument of National importance and a noted tourist attraction, Vellore Fort marks as one of the most prominent landmarks in the city. Within the fort are the ancient Jalakanteswara Temple and the epic State Government Museum.

Srilakshmi Golden Temple that is coated with gold both in the exteriors and interiors is another must-visit in Vellore. Additionally, the Archaeology Survey of Indian Museum is another that must be up on your to-do list. 

Things to Do in Vellore:  Tourists love to indulge in as many sightseeing activities as possible for the city holds historical and architectural significance.

Distance from Chennai:  136 kms

Best time to visit:  October - March

Places to Visit Near Chennai Within 500 Km

Sakleshpur (575 km from chennai).

Top Experiences To Do in Sakleshpur

Horsley Hills - 260 km from Chennai

Best of Alleppey

Tranquebar/Tharangambadi - 283 kms from Chennai

A tiny windswept town in Tamil Nadu which goes by the Danish name of Tranquebar, Tharangambadiis the ideal weekend getaway if heritage buildings, cultural history and architecture is your thing. The beachy town is also affectionately termed as the “village of the dancing waves.”

Places to visit in  Tharangambadi : Besides Fort Dansborg where Danish manuscripts and sculptures are the only remnants of the Danish East India Company, there are a ton of churches that are must-visits here. One of the most significant ones is the Zion Church, a new Jerusalem church built in 1701. There is also the Danish Museum for those of who keen of studying the antiques belonging to the colonial period.

Things to do in  Tharangambadi :  Tourists love to indulge in sightseeing when in Tranquebar because of its rich colonial heritage.

Distance from Chennai:  283 kms

Best time to visit:  February- August Recommended Read:   Things To Do In Paris This Weekend

Hogenakkal Waterfalls - 342.5 km from Chennai

Gandikota - 348.8 km from Chennai

Top Experiences To Do in Gandikota

Bheemeshwari - 350 km from Chennai

Top Experiences To Do in Bheemeshwari

• Bheemeshwari

Best of Pondicherry

Nandi Hills - 358 kms from Chennai

If you want to be enticed by the charming green allure of hills, Nandi Hills is your ideal weekend destination. The lofty hills also known as Nandidurg are an ancient hill fortress in South India and offers a magnificent view from its peaks. It not is a picturesque respite from the humdrum of the city but also lends a cultural significance with Tipu Sultan having resided here during retirement.

Places to Visit in  Nandi Hills : Feast your eyes to an array of tourist attractions such as the Bhoganandeeswara Temple, Tipu’s Drop, Tipu’s Summer Palace and Fort, Brahmashram, and Hoskote Lake to name a few.

Things to Do in  Nandi Hills :   Cycling, trekking &  Wine Tour  are celebrated activities as visitors love exploring the depths and landscapes of these hills. Bird watching is another loved activity tourist cannot get enough of.

Best time to visit:  From sunrise i.e. 6am to 10am

Also Check:    Places for trekking near Chennai .

Kolli Hills - 360.4 km from Chennai

Shivanasamudra Falls - 470.2 km from Chennai

Mysore - 480 kms from Chennai

The cultural capital of Karnataka, Mysore is proudly renowned as the city of palaces. An ancient town with more than 600 years of legacy, it is one of the most flamboyant destinations in the country.

Reputed for its glittering royal heritage, magnificent monuments and a friendly populace, Mysore is also a thriving centre for the production of silk, sandalwood and incense with trade markets worldwide thus making it one of the most frequented weekend getaways from Chennai.

Places to Visit in Mysore : It is but obvious that the palaces of Mysore appeal to one and all;especially the world-renowned Mysore Palace, Jagmohana Palace, Rajendra Vilas, Jayalakshmi Vilas and LalithaMahal. Most of these have been converted to museums dedicated to arts and artifacts for the pleasure of tourists.

Some other notable tourist attractions in Mysore are Chamundeshwari temple, DattaPeetham, Mysore Zoo, Shivasamudram waterfall, Rail Museum and Brindavan Gardens.

Things to Do in Mysore:  Sightseeing and royal walk tours are the most cherished activities tourists like to indulge in when in Mysore.

Distance from Chennai:  480 Km

Best Deals:  Budget Mysore tour packages .

Top Experiences To Do in Mysore

Best of Kodaikanal

Places to Visit Near Chennai Within 600 Km

Br hills - 504 kms from chennai.

BR or Biligiriranga Hills is the slice of heaven between the Eastern and Western Ghats, featuring diverse flora and fauna. The place houses many exotic animals and birds, one of the favorite activities to keep you busy all day. If you are looking for the best weekend getaways near Chennai, BR Hills is your best bet.  Explore the Dodda Sampide Mara, signifying the huge Champak Tree, which is also a spiritual site holding the tree for 1000 years.  Places to Visit in BR Hills : Among the other places to visit near Chennai, the major attractions and places of interest are the BR Hills. The touristy destinations here include BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, coffee estates, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, Dodda Sampide Mara, and many more. 

Things to do in  BR Hills :  You can indulge in activities like fishing, trekking, river rafting, temple visits, animal and bird watching, as well as shopping.

Distance from Chennai:  504 kms

Best time to visit:  November to March

Coonoor - 538.6 km from Chennai

Top Experiences To Do in Coonoor

Meghamalai - 545 kms from Chennai

One of the many attractive and exquisite places that are abundant in nature’s most beautiful products is Meghamalai, nuzzled in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu. Also known as the “High Wavy Mountains”, this is an incredible city if you crave your leisure time absorbing the panoramic views of green environs and lofty peaks.

Places to Visit in Meghamalai : Spreading over an expanse of 600 square meters, Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the many famous tourist attractions in the city. Also known as Clouds Land Falls,Meghamalai Falls is very popular for its gushing waters cascading from a height of 190 ft.

Last but not the least,Vellimalai is a scientifically managed expanse of both tea gardens and wild animals that visitors love spending time in.

Things to Do in Megahmalai:  As obvious as it is, tourists in Meghamalai love spending a considerable amount of their time sightseeing around this gorgeous destination.

Distance from Chennai:  545 kms

Nagarhole - 557 kms from Chennai

One of the most attractive and diverse wildlife reserves there are, Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is located in the Kodagu and Mysore districts of Karnataka. Adjoining Kabini Lake, it forms an important animal corridor that runs through the neighbouring Bandipur National Park.

Its lush green thickets form homes to several species of wildlife that additionally makes for some fantastic wildlife watching. Places to Visit in  Nagarhole : The National Park is the most favoured tourist attraction due to the abundant varieties of tigers, leopards, gaurs, elephants, wild dogs, bonnet macaques and common langurs that have made it their home. Things to Do in  Nagarhole :  Adventure aficionados will love the 20-seater motorboat rides and Government-run jungle safaris that keep the entertainment going in the park. Distance from Chennai:  557 km Best time to visit:  October - May Where to stay:  Best resorts in Nagarhole to get closer to Wildlife .

Best of Kovalam

Kabini - 558 kms from Chennai

Kabini, almost 550 kilometres away from Chennai, used to be a private hunting area for the British. Now, it is a famous wildlife spot, with rich flora and fauna and amazing natural landscapes. Home to the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka, this place attracts tourists from all over the world. It also has various natural terrains along with magnificent waterfalls that will leave you awestruck.  Situated alongside the banks of the Kabini River, Kabini also boasts of lush green tropical and deciduous forests, which have a wide array of wildlife, from elephants, leopards, tigers and jackals, sambar deer, sloth bears, langurs and pythons. Additionally, there are more than 250 bird species here. Kabini is an ideal spot for nature aficionados and adventure junkies.  Places to Visit in Kabini : Apart from taking in the wilderness of the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary that houses a multitude of bird and animal species, Tadiyadamol is another must-visit. It is the highest mountain range in the Coorg region and a trekker’s delight. Also, there is Kumara Parvatha, a famous pilgrimage centre, Kabini Dam and Nagarhole National Park. Things to do in Kabini :  Due to its verdant environs, it makes an ideal place to pitch your camps or go trekking in Kabini . The Kabini backwaters are a perfect camping site that allows you to unwind and enjoy the pristine surroundings. Distance from Chennai:  558 Kms Best time to visit:  October - May Where to stay:   Resorts in Kabini for a perfect stay .

Top Experiences To Do in Kabini

Thekkady - 561 kms from Chennai

For tourists looking for weekend getaways near Chennai, Thekkady is one place you can visit to soak in the splendour of nature in all its glory. Away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city limits, Thekkady is tucked in cosily amidst nature, Periyar wildlife and serenity. From the quaint little hamlets to dense jungles, Thekkady is also home to various wildlife sanctuaries where you can find majestic elephants and tigers, among other animals.  Also boasting of numerous tea, coffee and spice plantations, Thekkady will surely fill your soul with wonder and amazement. It is also among the top places for trekking and mountaineering in South India. Thekkady is located around 569 kilometres from Chennai.  Places to Visit in Thekkady : Noted for its biodiversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Periyar Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The greatest attraction of Thekkady, however, is the herds of elephants that come down to the river.Kumily, Kurisumala, Pandikuzhi and Murikaddy are some of Thekkady’s neighbours. They are an eclectic mix of exotic flora, fauna and gurgling streams and a panorama of coffee, cardamom and pepper plantations respectively. Things to Do in Thekkady :  The most favourite activity here are the elephant rides around the wildlife reserve. Second to that are the plantation rides. What follows them are boat rides on Periyar Lake and trekking. Distance from Chennai:  561 km Best time to visit:  September - March

Top Experiences To Do in Thekkady

Mudumalai - 562 kms from Chennai

Sandwiched between the Bandipur and Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries, the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is a continuation of Bandipiur’s reserve and is most renowned for its elephant habitat. The river Moyar flows between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka and runs inside the sanctuary.

Places to Visit in Mudumalai : The main attraction of Mudumalai happens to be the elephant camp called Theppakadu. For plant lovers, there are a ton of medicinal herbs to observe. Look out for plants like Aredesia, Solanancea, LabumusumTerminalia and the likes.

Things to Do in Mudumalai:   One can go trekking to explore the captivating magnificence of Mudumalai. Early morning wildlife safaris that take one into the depths of the woods are another favourite.

Distance from Chennai:  562 kms

Best time to visit:  February - June

Top Experiences To Do in Mudumalai

Masinagudi - 562 kms from Chennai

Harbouring a charming ambience of serenity and calmness, the hill town of Masinagudi is located on the foothills of the Nilgiris. Adorned by the scenic Western Ghats landscape full of lush green thickets, this is reserve plays home to innumerable species of animals. It is reputed for housing the largest tiger population in India.

Places to Visit in  Masinagudi : The best tourist attraction in Masinagudi would be catching sight of the rarest wildlife forms in their natural habitats some of which are elephants, Malabar squirrels, langurs, chitals and wild boars. But if you are lucky, you could even spot a tiger.

Things to Do in  Masinagudi :  Jeep safaris are what everybody opts for when here. 2 hours of this safari around the untouched areas of the reserve during dawn and dusk and you will be coming face to face with the wildlife at its best. From tigers, elephants, deer to wild boars, langurs and peacocks, you will see them all.

Also Check:  Best Resorts in Masinagudi

Top Experiences To Do in Masinagudi

Best of Gokarna

Valparai - 573 kms from Chennai

Located around 600 kilometres from Chennai, Valparai is one of the best places to visit near Chennai. It is a small and tranquil hill station situated in the Anamalai Hills in Coimbatore. Known for its lush green coffee and tea plantations, Valparai also has clean, thick and fresh air and scintillating views of nature and surrounding regions.  Amongst the likes of similar hill stations in the country, such as Ooty, Coorg and Kodaikanal, Valparai is one place that caters to every kind of traveller, while offering them a holiday they will never forget. This place caters to both nature lovers as well as those who love trekking and is also known as the “Seventh Heaven” in South India. Places to Visit in Valparai : One could either cool off in the gushing waters of the countless waterfalls here or take in the wilderness of the Anamalai Tiger reserve. To get a panoramic view of the beautiful surrounding around Valparai, one can head to the several lookout points in town. Things to Do in Valparai:  Jungle safaris around the Anamalai Tiger Reserve are popular apart from the usual trekking and bird watching opportunities. Distance from Chennai:  573 kms Best time to visit:  October – March

Chikmagalur - 597 km from Chennai

Top Experiences To Do in Chikmagalur

• Chikmagalur

Kovalam - 766.5 km from Chennai

Top Experiences To Do in Kovalam

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Santhome Church is a standing testament to the belief of the Christian followers and is among the three wonders of this world that house the tombs of Christ’s original disciple. The other two are Santiago de Compostela in Spain and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. It was constructed in the memory of Saint Thomas who was an Apostle of Jesus Christ. Santhome Church is the greatest symbol of multi-culture and religious harmony as people from all religions visit this Church to seek solace and eternal peace.This church was built initially as a mausoleum, but it has now transversed into a Basilica owing to it’s gaining popularity and importance. Beneath the towering white embodiment of this basilica lies the body of Saint Thomas who came to India in 52 AD to preach about Christianity. He was successful in converting a large population of the locals residing in Tamil Nadu and Kerala with his wisdom and powerful preaching. He thereafter formed a community that is now known as Syrian Christians. This church also houses a museum that displays souvenirs of Saint Thomas and gives visitors an insight into the glorious past of this church during the historical times.

Located on the East Coast Road in the Sholinganallur locality of South-Chennai, ISKCON Temple is the spiritual and cultural hub of the city. This temple in Chennai is not only the biggest Radha Krishna temple in Tamilnadu but one of the biggest ISKCON temples in India. With the history of the ISKCON temple in Chennai dating back to the late 1970s, the construction of the temple began in the late 1990s and was completed in 2012 in many phases. The temple houses the deity of Lord Krishna, alongside Radharani and their friends Lalita, Lord Chaitanya, Lord Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra inside three teak-wood alters which are one of a kind. These deities are sourced from Rajasthan and Orissa. Under the guidance of Sri Bhanu Swami, the beautiful architecture is inspired by the Kalinga and Pallava kingdoms’ architecture. At the entrance of the temple, one would see the wonderful design of various Hindu universes on the marble flooring. The various universes are circled a central pillar called Mount Meru. The design is implicated from the ancient Vedic Puranas where Mount Meru is described as the centre of all the universes. The temple is a blend of various cultures with modern scientific technology. To attract more and more people in the ISKCON movement, the authorities of the temples organize lectures and audio-visual programs about the Hindu philosophy. Spread over an area of 1.5 acres, the ISKCON temple or the Hare Rama Hare Krishna temple is built on five floors.

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Experience The Magic Of Tamil Nadu: 7 Spectacular Places To Explore

7 places to visit in tamil nadu.

Tamil Nadu, located in the south part of India is a land immersed in the rich culture, history and natural beauty. From ancient temples to serene hill stations, vibrant cities to picturesque beaches, Tamil Nadu offers a great variety of attractions for tourists. In this article we will take a virtual journey through some must-visit places in TamilNadu around, and will give you an invitation to explore this fascinating state's essence.

1. Chennai: The Gateway to Tamil Nadu

Chennai serves as the starting point of our journey. Known for its vibrant culture, Chennai presents a mix of tradition and modernity. Visitors can walk down landmarks such as Marina Beach landmark wherein lies history, iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple or Fort St. George dating back to colonial era days. And while here don't forget about tasting traditional Tamil cuisine at local restaurants and buying some things at T Nagar market or Pondy Bazaar - really overpopulated with people.

2. Madurai: The City of Temples

Few hours' drive from Chennai is Madurai, often called "the Athens of the East." A sprawling complex dedicated to goddess Meenakshi is what Madurai means when mentioned, for most people think about it only because of that ancient temple called Meenakshi Amman Temple which covers many acres. The temple's intricate architecture and bustling bazaars breathes spirituality and cultural richness into it by manifesting themselves both physically and visually through sculptures. Also there are several other sights in the vicinity including Gandhi Memorial Museum where one can see lively rituals happening around Vaigai River.

3. Thanjavur: The Cultural Heartland

When you want to know more about art music dance Thanjavur should be on top your list since it has contributed much into these fields throughout centuries now.Temple Brihadeeswarar which belongs to Chola dynasty and is considered as one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, was built by them in the form of a testimony about their architectural genius. Also, those keen on art can visit Thanjavur Art Gallery where they will be exposed to an impressive collection of bronze sculptures and traditional paintings. Don't forget that you can also attend such famous classical performances like Sangeetha Mahal.

4. Ooty: The Queen of Hill Stations

Ooty, a hill station ensconced within Nilgiri Hills provides a perfect getaway from the sweltering heat of the plains. This place is well known for its lush tea gardens, serene lakes and mist-covered mountains which makes it heaven for people loving nature. Catch the train ride through Nilgiri Mountain Railway; take a walk around Government Botanical Garden with neatly trimmed plants or go boating at Ooty Lake with green peaceful water.

5. Kanyakumari: Where Land Meets Sea

Kanyakumari is the utmost point downwards from where one can get by land along the Indian coast; it is situated at the South tip of mainland India where Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean join together creating breathtaking vistas. Get amazed by the sunrise/sunset from Vivekananda Rock Memorial or Thiruvalluvar Statue this experience will remain in your memory forever! Additionally, there are some historical attractions like Padmanabhapuram Palace or an ancient temple dedicated to Devi Kanya Kumari.

6. Mahabalipuram: A Heritage Gem

A UNESCO World Heritage site in Mahabalipuram' s exquisitely carved rock-cut temples and sculptures takes us back into history's pages full of intrigue and mystery. Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance along with Five Rathas are examples of intricately carved monolithic structures that may catch your eye while you are here.So why don't you go for water sports in Mahabalipuram's clean beaches or buy souvenirs in the busy street markets?

7. Coimbatore: The Manchester of South India

Conclude your visit to Coimbatore, often called as the "Manchester of South India" because of its thriving textile industry located in Tamil Nadu. You should explore the quietness of Siruvani Waterfalls and peaceful atmosphere at Marudhamalai Murugan Temple where you can hear prayers being sung by the devotees. Do not miss a chance to try delicious South Indian cuisine in local restaurants or buy some fashionable silk sarees at colorful markets.

Ultimately, Tamil Nadu is an amalgamation of differing experiences that cater for all kinds of travelers. There are many reasons why anyone would want to go there including one's interest in history, love for nature or even just wanting to experience their unique culture among others. Pack your luggage and set off on this magical journey where you will understand how timeless the beauty and charm of Tamil Nadu is, a cultural hotspot in India.