Top 10 most popular places to visit in Chennai
Brimming with exciting opportunities, the city of Chennai is well-known as the biggest economic center in South India, but that’s not all. It has a lot more in store for travelers and nature lovers as well, right from its beautiful mix of traditional aesthetics and modern culture to coastlines adorned with beautiful beaches, temples, churches, museums, and mouth-watering food. So come on, no need to wait for long, book your tickets now to the ever-hustling city of Chennai.
Below is the list of places in Chennai to help you plan a perfect itinerary:
It is the Pride of Chennai and the perfect destination for any group, this beach is a fantastic escape from Chennai’s intense temperature. Extending from Fort St George to Foreshore Estate, it is the longest beach in India. Primarily it is a white sandy beach that has a lighthouse on its southern tip which is not only the main spot of the beach but also enhances its beauty. Not to miss is the amazing sunrise, sunset, and the view around which is worth capturing. Moreover, don’t forget to stuff at least one pani puri with a burst of flavours in just one dish which will please all your senses. I am sure you can’t stop yourself from having more.
The ancient shrine of Shiva, Kapaleeswarar temple in Mylapore is a significant place of worship for Hindu pilgrims and devotees of Shiva. Built in the 17th century, the temple has a brilliant Dravidian style completed with sculptures of Gods and demons. It is one of the major spiritual places in Chennai where Shakti worshiped Shiva in the form of a peacock. Its matchless structure, architecture, and beauty have been depicted and restored for ages with rich paint colours.
Well-known as the Indoor Universe, the Birla Planetarium is one of the most modern planetariums in India, serving as a popular tourist attraction with wonderful places for stargazing and exploring galleries and parks. A must-visit place for science enthusiasts which provides insights into the Universe and Galaxy. It provides a virtual tour of the night sky and holds cosmic shows on a hemispherical aluminium inner dome. Not just this, it is an informative place best for kids to learn where multiple galleries with over 500 exhibits and a sky theatre display the various astronomical objects of the universe.
“Thousand lights mosque”, the name says it all. It is an amazing sight to behold because of its architectural brilliance accentuated by the magical lighting of 1000 oil lamps. Built in the 19th century, the multi-domed mosque is one of the famous places in Chennai which is a revered place of worship and azadari for Shia Muslims of the city. Don’t miss the chance to visit this place in Chennai, I am sure you will be mesmerized by its glory.
It is one of the cleanest beaches in India though thousands of people visit it daily. Named after Edward Elliot, a chief magistrate of Madras Presidency in colonial India, it is located slightly away from the city. Perfect beach for people who wish to stay in a peaceful place and spend a good time with their loved ones. Sunrise and sunset are the main attractions of the beach.
Looking for a place for kids away from the city’s hustle and bustle. This park is the perfect spot for them to enjoy and learn. Here you can introduce your kids to experience the presence of various species of animals. Centrally located in the heart of the city, it is a unique addition to the city’s architectural aura. Another interesting feature is a 20 million years old specimen of Tyrannosaurus which I am sure your kids will love to see.
As the name says, this pristine Golden beach is well-known for its impressive spread of golden sand that sparkles around the blue water of the sea. Owned by the VGP Universal Kingdom, it is a beach cum Amusement park that offers a wide range of entertainment options like Go Karting, water chute, dashing cars, giant wheels, super trooper, dragon’s belly, and much more. Aqua kingdom, statue man, and Jurassic park are some special sightseeing options here. The art center, sea-facing swimming pool, and multi-cuisine restaurant with a separate bar all together make it a perfect tourist spot. It is the only resort in the Chennai city limits and is loved by visitors because of its enticing sunset and sunrise.
“Stands baseless without the support of any pillar”. Don’t be surprised, yes it’s true. This is an impressive 39-meter-high stone temple car that is fixed and is a wonderful addition to the edifice. Intricately designed, it is a mark of brilliant Indian architecture with an innovative layout and well-thought execution. It is a memorial monument of the greatest Tamil scholar-Thirukkal known as the “Divine Poet”. The magnificent lion on the main gateway is a lovely sight to behold and makes it a perfect destination to click a few pictures.
Don’t skip a shopping expedition to this place. Out of all places for shopping in Chennai, T. Nagar is one main spot for shopaholics. Initially built as a residential neighborhood, it is now considered the largest shopping district in India as per revenue. The main highlight of this place is the extensive discounts that the shopkeepers offer on almost everything from saris to gold. South Indian saris here are a must-buy.
“Lourdes of the East”, the church is well-known for this name and is the most revered pilgrimage for Catholics in India. Wondering what makes it a must-visit? Well, it’s a blend of Gothic, Portuguese, and Christian Pilgrimage influences. Its beautiful white structure with tall towers complements the Bay of Bengal behind it perfectly. In short, it is worth visiting when you are planning an itinerary to Chennai.
A trip to Chennai with all the places to visit mentioned above will be a trip to remember. Your trip won’t be complete without having a bite of any of these South Indian amazing delicacies-Idli, Sambhar, and Dosa. Make sure to try them once.
