Chennai's rich tapestry of history, culture, and coastal beauty offers unforgettable experiences at every turn. From the world's second-longest urban beach to ancient temples whispering stories of dynasties past, these 15 attractions define the soul of India's southern gateway.
Pro Tip: Chennai's attractions are spread across the city. Group visits by neighborhood (Mylapore, Central Chennai, etc.) to maximize your time and minimize travel between sites.
Chennai's Crown Jewels
1. Marina Beach
The world's second-longest urban beach stretches 13km along the Bay of Bengal. Morning walks here reveal local life - from fishermen hauling nets to yoga practitioners greeting the sun.
2. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Mylapore's 7th-century Dravidian masterpiece dazzles with its colorful gopuram (gateway tower) and intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology. Evening pujas (prayers) are particularly atmospheric.
3. Fort St. George
Built in 1644 by the British East India Company, this fort houses St. Mary's Church (India's oldest Anglican church) and a museum displaying colonial-era artifacts.
Cultural Treasures
4. Government Museum
Established in 1851, this sprawling complex houses exceptional Bronze Age artifacts, Chola bronzes, and the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe.
5. Kalakshetra Foundation
Rukmini Devi's renowned institute preserves Bharatanatyam dance and Carnatic music. Attend evening performances or morning classes (with prior arrangement).
Local Insight: Many temples have free guided tours - ask at the information counter. At Kapaleeshwarar, the 6:30PM puja includes full temple illumination - a magical experience.
Coastal Wonders
6. Besant Nagar Beach (Bessie)
Chennai's "local's beach" offers a more relaxed vibe than Marina. Evening brings food stalls, kite flyers, and the iconic Murugan Idli Shop nearby.
7. Covelong Beach
Just 40km south, this golden-sand beach offers watersports, dolphin spotting, and the charming Dutch-era fishing village of Kovalam.
Hidden Gems
8. Theosophical Society
This peaceful 260-acre campus features a 450-year-old banyan tree (Asia's second-largest) and shrines of all world religions.
9. San Thome Basilica
Built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, this neo-Gothic cathedral's stained glass depicts the saint's journey to India.
Complete Attractions List
- Marina Beach - Iconic urban shoreline
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple - Dravidian masterpiece
- Fort St. George - Colonial history hub
- Government Museum - Ancient artifacts
- Kalakshetra - Classical arts center
- Besant Nagar Beach - Local favorite
- Covelong Beach - Watersports haven
- Theosophical Society - Spiritual oasis
- San Thome Basilica - Apostle's tomb
- Valluvar Kottam - Tamil poet memorial
- Birla Planetarium - Cosmic wonders
- Parthasarathy Temple - Ancient Vishnu shrine
- Guindy National Park - Urban wildlife
- DakshinaChitra - Living heritage museum
- MGR Film City - South Indian cinema
Must-Try Experience: Take a heritage walk through George Town's flower markets at dawn, when merchants unload jasmine blossoms in fragrant cascades - followed by breakfast at Ratna Café's original outlet for legendary sambar idli.