From Beaches To Temples, 10 Must-Visit Attractions In Chennai

Marina BeachThis urban beach stretches for 13 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal, making it one of the longest in the world. You can enjoy the sea breeze, catch the sunrise or sunset, and indulge in local street food here.Kapaleeshwarar TempleThis temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and features a colorful gopuram (tower), a sacred tank, many shrines, and sculptures.Fort St. GeorgeThis is the first British fortress in India, established in 1644 by the East India Company. The fort contains St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in India, and a museum exhibiting colonial artefacts and paintings.San Thome BasilicaA Roman Catholic basilica, it was built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The basilica has a neo-Gothic style, a stained glass window, and a 14-foot statue of St. Thomas. Government Museum & National Art GalleryThis museum, established in 1851, showcases rich collections of art, archaeology, numismatics, zoology, and botany, including works by Raja Ravi Varma and other Indian artists in the National Art Gallery.Arignar Anna Zoological ParkThis is the largest zoological park in India, covering an area of 602 hectares of land. It houses over 2,500 animals, birds, and reptiles and offers exciting safari rides, boating, and a butterfly house.Valluvar KottamThis monument is a tribute to the renowned Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, who authored the Thirukkural, a masterpiece of moral and ethical teachings. It has a 12-metre-high statue of Thiruvalluvar, and a hall showcasing his verses.Guindy National ParkThis is the eighth smallest national park in India, located within the city limits. It is a green oasis that has deer, monkeys, snakes, and birds. The park also has a children’s park, a snake park, and a nature trail. Birla PlanetariumThis planetarium provides a virtual tour of the night sky and holds cosmic shows on a hemispherical dome. It has a science park, a 3D theatre, and a science museum that exhibits various aspects of science and technology. Chennai Rail MuseumThis museum is dedicated to showing the evolution of the Indian Railways. It has an impressive collection of vintage locomotives, coaches, wagons, and models. You can ride on a toy train, experience a simulator ride, and marvel at a miniature rail layout.A Foodie's Guide To Pune: 10 Cafes For Every CravingRead more