Things to do in Chennai
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Top 10 attractions in Chennai
Marina Beach
Marina Beach is located in Chennai, India, with a total length of 5 kilometers. It reaches the beach from St. George's Fort to the south through the bridge over the Guwumu River. The coast has been meandering to the mouth of the Adeyar River. There are many vendors around the beach, which is a very popular beach for locals. Every holiday, there are more people here. It is a good place to relax.Chennai · 3.4 km from downtown
Dr.M.G.R. and Dr.J.Jayalalitha Memorial
The Dr MGR Memorial was built in memory of the Indian politician, actor and social activist M. G. Ramachandran. It is located near the Marina Beach in Chennai and covers an area of 8.25 acres. It is adjacent to the Anna Memorial and is a popular tourist destination in the Marina area. The museum houses a museum with a large collection of photos, movie posters and personal belongings about MGR, detailing his film career and political career. There is a lamp that never goes out on the north side to commemorate this great man. In addition, there are beautiful gardens, fountains and waterfalls, creating a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere. The Dr MGR Memorial is an important cultural landmark in Tamil Nadu, symbolizing MGR's impact on society and his legacy. It not only attracts admirers of MGR, but also tourists who are interested in Indian politics and movies.Chennai · 3.8 km from downtown
Arulmigu Vadapalani Murugan Temple
The temple is one of the well-known ancient buildings in the area, with uniquely styled smooth exterior lines and vibrant colors, making it very attractive.Chennai · 4 km from downtown
Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple
This is a spectacular temple with exquisite interior decoration, where murals and sculptures tell ancient mythological stories.Chennai · 9.6 km from downtown
Semmozhi Poonga Chennai Tamil Nadu
Semmozhi Poonga Chennai Tamil Nadu is a large park in Chennai, India. The park features a wide variety of plants, including tropical, herbaceous, and aquatic species, as well as a beautiful artificial lake. Additionally, the park has a mini zoo housing small animals such as rabbits, birds, and monkeys, making it a great place for children to interact with animals.Chennai · 218m from downtown
Chennai Lighthouse
The Chennai Lighthouse, also known as the Madras Lighthouse, is one of the iconic buildings of the Indian city of Chennai, located at the southern end of Marina Beach. Since its opening in 1977, the lighthouse has become an important link between the city and the ocean. The lighthouse has a unique architectural style, with red and white stripes and a triangular tower. There is an observation deck on the top of the tower, which visitors can reach via an elevator to enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the Bay of Bengal. It is the only urban lighthouse in India with an elevator and one of the few lighthouses in the world with this facility. As a landmark building in Chennai, the lighthouse is not only a tool for navigation guidance, but also a symbol of the city's history and culture. Since its reopening to the public in 2013, it has attracted a large number of visitors.Chennai · 3.4 km from downtown
Arulmigu Devi Karumariamman Temple, Thiruverkadu
The Arulmigu Devi Karumariamman Temple, Thiruverkadu, is a significant religious and cultural landmark located on the outskirts of Thiruverkadu in the Chennai region of Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to the goddess Karumariamman, a mother goddess of compassion and protection, the temple holds a deep place in South Indian folk beliefs. The temple boasts a rich history, believed to have originated from local village worship and gradually expanded into the vast temple complex it is today. The temple's architecture embodies classic Dravidian style, with the towering turrets at the main entrance intricately carved with depictions of various deities and mythological stories. The main sanctuary houses a statue of Karumariamman, believed to bestow health, peace, and family harmony. The temple's interior, adorned with vibrant colors and stone reliefs, showcases the complex and symbolic aesthetic tradition of Tamil art.Chennai · 13.9 km from downtown
Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple
Located in the Besant Nagar area of Chennai, India, near Elliot Beach, Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple is a unique Hindu temple dedicated to the eight goddesses of wealth—Ashta Lakshmi, who symbolize wealth, prosperity, courage, wisdom, offspring, food, victory, and strength. Completed in 1976, the temple was inspired by the Sundararaja Perumal Temple in Uttiramal. Its multi-story structure allows visitors to visit the statues of each goddess in turn without crossing any shrines. The temple's architectural style incorporates elements of traditional South Indian temples, with intricate and vibrant decorations and intricate murals on the walls and ceilings, showcasing a rich tapestry of religious stories and cultural heritage.Chennai · 7 km from downtown
Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple
Located in the Thiruvanmiyur area of Chennai, India, on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, the Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple is a historic and highly worshipped Hindu temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, an incarnation of Marundeeswarar, meaning "God of Medicine," and symbolizes healing and health. Legend has it that Lord Shiva imparted knowledge of herbal medicine to the sage Akashtiya, making this temple a sacred place for healing and healing. The temple's architecture is typical of the Dravidian style, with intricate carvings and magnificent towers. The main hall is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Tiruppilasundari. The temple also houses a shrine to the sage Valmiki, who is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva here. The temple was praised in the 7th-century Tevaram hymn by two renowned southern saints, Apal and Tirugnana Sambandar. In the 11th century, the Chhor dynasty expanded the temple, further increasing its size and influence.Chennai · 7.6 km from downtown
Kalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple
The Kaalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple, located in Chennai, India, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva and Kalikanpal. Its unique architecture and religious significance attract numerous devotees and tourists. The temple is located in Chennai's Old Town, surrounded by traditional markets and historic buildings. The temple's carvings and towers showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of South Indian temple architecture, and the tranquility within stands in stark contrast to the bustling exterior. Visitors can experience a rich religious culture and admire the exquisite statues and decorations. It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening to avoid the midday heat and experience the temple's daily rituals. Appropriate clothing is advised, and a scarf or shawl is recommended to cover shoulders and head. For visitors keen to explore religious culture and historical sites, this is a must-see destination.Chennai · 6.3 km from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Chennai
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Free things to do in Chennai
Marina Beach
Chennai · 3.4 km from downtownDr.M.G.R. and Dr.J.Jayalalitha Memorial
Chennai · 3.8 km from downtownArulmigu Vadapalani Murugan Temple
Chennai · 4 km from downtownNanganallur Anjaneyar Temple
Chennai · 9.6 km from downtownSemmozhi Poonga Chennai Tamil Nadu
Chennai · 218m from downtownChennai Lighthouse
Chennai · 3.4 km from downtownArulmigu Devi Karumariamman Temple, Thiruverkadu
Chennai · 13.9 km from downtownShri Ashtalakshmi Temple
Chennai · 7 km from downtownArulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple
Chennai · 7.6 km from downtownKalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple
Chennai · 6.3 km from downtown
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What travelers say about Chennai
warashfal1 October 2023
4.0
best Chennai City has to offer is its beaches and spicy seA food.... the marina has always been the best sunrise spots in Chennai..a walk along the shore.. listening to the backdrop of waves hitting up the shores is something that needs to be felt by everyone....
Marina Beach
Sashi Kumasi27 June 2026
5.0
5pm we full family visit the temple but to get quick darshan should go at 7pm
Arulmigu Vadapalani Murugan Temple
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Frequently asked questions
What are the must-do things in Chennai?
Don't miss these attractions in Chennai: Marina Beach, Dr.M.G.R. and Dr.J.Jayalalitha Memorial, and Arulmigu Vadapalani Murugan Temple. If you like Day tours, try Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Guide. If you enjoy Travel photography, try Trip Moments in Chennai, India[Promotional Videos, Micro Films, Documentaries / Commercial Photography & Videography, Follow-up Shooting, Aerial Photography, Portraits, Wedding Photography / Translation].
What are the recommended tours and excursions in Chennai?
When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Guide, Chennai to Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram – Private Day Tour, and Chennai to Kanchipuram & Vellore – Private Heritage Tour. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.
What's the typical cost of day tours and activities in Chennai?
As of 15 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Chennai is around IDR 2,198,017 – IDR 4,185,549. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.
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