This city of Chennai draws thousands of visitors because it is home to the second-largest urban beach in the world, the Marina Beach, and it has a plethora of places to visit. When you visit Chennai, you will be surprised to discover a fusion of culinary flavours and cultures that will pique your interest as a traveller. A list of the best places to visit in Chennai is compiled that are diverse and, in some cases, harken back to the colonial era.
Here is an overview of some of the best places to visit in Chennai
1. Marina Beach
It is one of the iconic places in Chennai, and your trip to Chennai is incomplete without a visit to Marina Beach. The fascinating sunrises here are no less spectacular than the sunsets. It is a perfect destination for any group and a fantastic escape from the intense temperatures. When you go to this beach, make sure you have some free time as it is the longest beach in India.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Beauty, Sunrise, Water Sports
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Things to do:
- Adventure Activities: Kayaking, Canoeing.
2. Nagalapuram Waterfalls
This popular hill station near Chennai will give you relief from the hot and humid Chennai weather. Nagalapuram Falls is the favorite weekend destination among the must-see places near Chennai for most people. Whether you are a hiking enthusiast or a nature lover, this place will be a delight for you.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Nature, Waterfalls
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 3 hours
Things to do:
- Adventure Activities: Swimming, Nature Walk
3. Government Museum
The door of this museum will make you travel through the cultural richness of India. Here you can find an exceptional collection of bronzes and ancient and modern objects from South India. The marble houses of Amaravati and the marble sculptors related to the life of Gautama Buddha stand out as the best attraction of this museum, making it a worthy choice among the best places to visit in Chennai.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Architecture, Historical Significance
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 2 hours
4. Ashtalakshmi Temple
The peaceful and divine atmosphere of this abode of the goddess Lakshmi is indescribable. This temple is intended to worship the eight forms of the goddess of wealth. The best part about one of the important places to visit in Chennai is that we can hear the echoes of the ocean waves in the temple complex. This place will create a sense of peace and spirituality. Is there a better way to relax?
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Religious, Nature
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 1 hour
5. Thousand Lights Mosque
In ancient times, it was believed that nearly a thousand lights were needed to illuminate the hall of this multi-domed mosque. This is why it is called the Mosque of the Thousand Lights and illuminates the entire Royapettah district. Your face will light up as you walk around the illuminated mosque, and that is why it is one of the famous landmarks in Chennai.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Religious
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 1 hour
6. Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is one of the best places to visit near Chennai. This jewel of Tamil Nadu is the second holiest and “golden city of temples” in India. Your visit to Kanchipuram will be enriched with blessings and tranquillity. The architecturally rich and magnificently beautiful temples are a delight for spiritual souls. What else?
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Architecture, Peace
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 2 hours
7. Valluvar Kottam
Valluvar Kottam is an amazingly designed chariot in honor of the most famous Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar. He was a great scholar and hailed as a saint. You should visit the place at sunrise or sunset to get the best experience of the true beauty and elegance of Valluvar Kottam.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Beauty, Nature
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration:
8. Dakshina Chitra
Translating directly into an “image of the south”, DakshinaChitra is a collective museum of eighteen houses. What will a visit to DakshinaChitra be like? Well, it will introduce you to the way of life, architecture, crafts, and culture of the famous South Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, and Telangana. You will have fun and learn a lot about the South Indian states. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Architecture, Historical Significance
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 3 hours
9. Mylapore
To experience the true culture of Chennai, you must visit Mylapore. It is the cultural center of Chennai. It is a beautiful land of vibrant culture with a history of over 1,500 years. While witnessing millennial history, you can feast on the most delicious cuisine of South India.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Culture, Traditional
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 2 hours
Things to do:
- Adventure Activities:
10. Elliot’s Beach
Also known as Besant Nagar Beach, Elliot Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in India. The Ashtalakshmi temple that we mentioned above is located south of this beach. On the beach, there is an incredible Schmidt Memorial to remember the Dutch sailor Karl Schmidt. Stop at this beach and witness breathtaking sights and a serene atmosphere.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Atmosphere, Temple, Watersports
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Things to do:
- Adventure Activities: Watersports
11. Velankanni Church
Not far from Elliot Beach, you will come across Velankanni Church. Wondering what makes this church a must-see? Well, the answer is a harmonious blend of Gothic, Portuguese, and Christian pilgrimage influences. These white structures with tall towers perfectly complement the beautiful Bay of Bengal behind it.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Pilgrimage, Beauty
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 1 hour
12. Guindy National Park
The unique addition to this city’s architectural aura is Guindy National Park and Snake Park. It is home to various species of mammals, reptiles, trees, birds, amphibians, and others. This park is located in the heart of the city and has an intriguing snake park with cobras, pythons, and various other species of snakes. Are you looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city?
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Flora, Fauna, Architecture
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Things to do:
- Adventure Activities: Nature Walk
13. Royapuram Fishing Harbor
At Royapuram fishing port, you can find various bidders or fishermen shouting to sell the best deals in this great photo spot. Imagine enjoying the spectacular sights of Royapuram fishing port while shopping at the famous fish markets! This fishing harbor can accommodate more than 570 boats and is located on the northern side of Chennai port.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Fishing port, Pics
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 3 hours
Things to do:
- Adventure Activities: Boating
14. Birla Planetarium
Birla Planetarium, near Anna University, is the cheapest way to spend time with the moon and stars. Audiovisual astronomy programs and exhibits on the star cycle, solar system, comets, moon, and various celestial objects are some wonderful things to do here. It will be a great success, especially with children!
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Adventure
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
15. Golden Beach
Finally, the last place to visit on your trip to Chennai has to be Golden Beach. This beach is famous for the vast expanses of golden sand that stretch along the shores of the beautiful blue waters. Belonging to the kingdom of VGP Universal, it is one of the cleanest beaches in Chennai. With the 2000 Millennium Tower, the Human Statue, the Water Kingdom, and the Sand Kingdom, this beach is the perfect destination for families.
Traveler Information:
- Famous for: Watersports, Cleanest Beach
- Best Time to Visit:
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Things to do:
- Adventure Activities: Watersports
Here’s a neat table highlighting 15 Best Places to Visit in Chennai with categories and short descriptions:
| Place | Category | Highlights / Description |
| Marina Beach | Beach | World’s second-longest urban beach, famous for sunrise and street food. |
| Kapaleeshwarar Temple | Temple | 7th-century Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Mylapore. |
| Fort St. George | Historical Site | Built in 1644 by the British, it houses a museum and Tamil Nadu legislative assembly. |
| Government Museum | Museum | Oldest museum in India (1851), showcasing archaeology, art, and natural history. |
| Santhome Cathedral Basilica | Church | 16th-century Roman Catholic church built over St. Thomas the Apostle’s tomb. |
| Valluvar Kottam | Monument | Monument dedicated to Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar, shaped like a temple chariot. |
| Guindy National Park | Nature/Wildlife | One of India’s smallest national parks, home to deer, blackbucks, and rare birds. |
| Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo) | Zoo | India’s largest zoological park with 150+ species and safari experiences. |
| DakshinaChitra | Cultural Center | Living museum showcasing South Indian heritage, crafts, and architecture. |
| Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar Beach) | Beach | Peaceful alternative to Marina, popular with youth and café culture. |
| Thousand Lights Mosque | Mosque | Beautiful 19th-century mosque, major worship site for Shia Muslims in Chennai. |
| Mahabalipuram (near Chennai) | Heritage Site | UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. |
| Birla Planetarium | Science & Education | Modern planetarium with astronomy shows and interactive science exhibits. |
| MGR Film City | Entertainment | Built in memory of actor-politician M.G. Ramachandran, used for film shootings. |
| Express Avenue Mall | Shopping & Leisure | One of the largest malls in South India with shopping, dining, and a multiplex. |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Chennai for first-time visitors?
2. Are there family-friendly places to visit in Chennai?
3. Which places near Chennai are worth a short trip?
4. What is the best time to explore tourist places in Chennai?
