Best Things to Do in Chennai

blog image

Best Things to Do in Chennai

Welcome to the Cultural Capital of South India

Chennai blends tradition, modern city life, beaches, and deep-rooted culture in a way that feels genuine. Long coastlines, historic temples, classical music, filter coffee, and buzzing streets all define the city. You’ll find ancient architecture next to IT parks and luxury malls beside old markets. The pace can be busy, but the warmth of the people and the food make it welcoming. Chennai is perfect for families, heritage lovers, foodies, and anyone interested in South Indian art and culture.

Must-Visit Attractions in Chennai

Marina Beach

One of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina is ideal for morning walks and breezy evenings. Stalls selling snacks, kites, and ice creams add to the atmosphere, while the sunrise here is especially beautiful.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore

This colorful Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The tall gopuram, rituals, and vibrant surrounding streets reflect Chennai’s rich spiritual heritage.

San Thome Basilica

Built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, this white Gothic-style church is both historically important and visually striking. The peaceful interiors offer a calm break from the city rush.

Government Museum & Egmore

This museum complex showcases art, archaeology, bronze idols, and ancient artifacts. It’s one of India’s oldest museums and a great place to understand South Indian history.

Valluvar Kottam

Dedicated to the Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar, this monument stands as a symbol of Tamil literature and culture. Its chariot-shaped structure is unique and impressive.

Unique Experiences in Chennai

Walk through Mylapore and Triplicane streets
These old neighborhoods are full of tradition. You’ll find flower markets, small eateries, kolams drawn outside houses, and temple bells ringing through the day.

Savor authentic South Indian food
Try crispy dosas, fluffy idlis, pongal, sambar, chutneys, filter coffee, kothu parotta, and seafood. Iconic restaurants and small tiffin centers both offer memorable meals.

Watch a Bharatanatyam or Carnatic music performance
If you visit during the music season (December–January), you can attend concerts and dance shows across the city. Even outside the season, cultural centers often host programs.

Shopping at T. Nagar
Busy and colorful, T. Nagar is famous for silk sarees, jewelry, and clothing stores. It’s crowded, but the energy and variety make it worth visiting.

ECR coastal drive
A drive along East Coast Road towards Mahabalipuram offers sea views, cafés, amusement parks, and beachside stops along the way.

What Makes Chennai Special

Chennai holds on to its roots while growing as a major metropolis. You’ll see devotion in temples, elegance in classical arts, innovation in IT hubs, and warmth in everyday interactions. The city doesn’t try to impress with showiness. Instead, it grows on you through its music, food, language, and the calm strength of its culture. It’s a place that feels authentic and proud of its identity.

Ideal Duration for Your Trip

Plan 2 to 3 days in Chennai to explore beaches, temples, museums, markets, and food spots. Add extra days if you want day trips to Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, or Pondicherry.

Included

To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.

  • Airport / Railway Station To Hotel Transfer on Private basis
  • Hotel to Airport / Railway Station Transfer on Private basis
  • Vehicle : Innova / Xylo / Scorpio
  • Daily Breakfast

Excluded

  • All personal expenses, optional tours and extra meals.
  • Surcharges as applicable due to peak season, surcharge dates, trade fair dates.
  • Camera fees, alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages and starters.
  • Vehicle service on leisure days for sightseeing not included in the itinerary.
  • Mandatory Christmas/New Year Eve dinner cost will be applicable as advised by the hotels.
  • Any services not mentioned in the inclusions list.
  • Services of Tour Manager are not included in this package.
  • Tips and porter-age.
  • Tourism tax is excluded wherever applicable.
  • Tips are excluded wherever applicable.
  • International or Domestic airfare / Train Fare.