Greater Chennai Corporation Launches Online Booking For Guided Heritage Walks At Ripon Buildings

Chennai’s iconic Ripon Buildings, a symbol of colonial-era architecture and the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) headquarters, is now more accessible to history enthusiasts and tourists. The GCC has officially launched an online booking system for guided heritage walks, allowing visitors to explore the grandeur of this historic landmark.Heritage Walk DetailsStarting February 8, heritage walks will be conducted on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. A maximum of 150 participants will be allowed per session. Visitors will not only explore the majestic Ripon Buildings but also visit the Victoria Public Hall once its ongoing renovation is completed. The tour includes access to the Council Hall, where significant civic decisions have been made over the decades.Online Booking Now OpenPreviously, heritage walks at Ripon Buildings were available only through special requests from organisations. With the introduction of the online booking system, individual residents, families, schools, and tourists can now easily reserve their slots. The registration process requires visitors to submit details such as Aadhaar number, mobile number, and home address for security and identification purposes.Expert-Guided ToursTo ensure an enriching experience, the GCC has invited historians to lead the guided tours. So far, three experts have registered as guides, with more expected to join in the coming weeks. These experts will provide insights into the history, architectural significance, and heritage value of the Ripon Buildings, which have stood as a testimony to Chennai’s colonial past since their completion in 1913.A Glimpse Into The PastThe Ripon Buildings, named after Lord Ripon, the then Viceroy of India, showcase Indo-Saracenic architectural style with its striking white façade and intricate detailing. The site has been crucial in the city’s governance for over a century.Renovation efforts for the Ripon Buildings began during the tenure of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). However, restoration work on the adjacent Victoria Public Hall has faced delays, though it remains a key part of the planned heritage walk itinerary.How to Participate?Residents and tourists eager to immerse themselves in Chennai’s rich history can now book their guided tour online through the GCC’s official website. This initiative promotes heritage tourism while making the city’s architectural gems more accessible.