Get ready to explore Chennai like never before. Starting with ancient temples, pristine beaches, and savory food, Chennai has a lot of exciting experiences in store to raise your interest. Here’s a guide on what things to do in Chennai, so you can live it to the fullest in this cultural capital of South India.
Sri Parthasarathy Temple
First on your list of things to do in Chennai has to be the visit to the Sri Parthasarathi Temple. As you walk towards its grand entrance, your eyes will be treated to the view of stunning gopurams that stand as a testimonial to the Vijayanagar architectural style. Then inside, you will find a serene sanctum sanctorum housing the main deity that blesses you and provides you with a serene moment amidst your hustling city tour.
Know and Live Through History at Fort St. George
The next stop on your journey through Chennai’s past will bring you to Fort St. George. Housed within the wonder of history and architecture, you shall walk in the very footsteps of the first-ever English settlers to set foot in India. Inside the complex of Fort St. George, there exists a museum that has been stockpiled with many colonial-era artifacts that bring life into the events of those times. You can hardly miss being amazed by displays of documents, weapons, and paintings depicting British rule over India.
San Thome Cathedral Basilica
While looking for further things to do in Chennai, ensure that you definitely visit the San Thome Cathedral Basilica. This beautiful white Neo-Gothic building just spells out how diverse Chennai really is when talking about religion. As you enter the cathedral, you will be gasping with awe at the really curious mixture of Gothic and Indian architectural styles. Take a minute to reflect on the historical essence of the site that enshrines, reputedly, the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle.
Unravel Ancient Treasures in the Government Museum
Enthuse your thirst for knowledge at the Government Museum, which is one of India’s largest and oldest museums. Walking down its halls, you will realize the very rich collection of artifacts across centuries of South Indian history. From intricately crafted bronze statues to ancient inscriptions and coins, each exhibit speaks volumes about the rich culture of this region.
Embrace the Adventure and Nature
If you’re looking for more active things to do in Chennai, then consider yourself in luck because the city and its surroundings are really good for an adventure enthusiast. You may join a trekking expedition to the nearby hills with breathtaking views of the countryside, an experience combined with spotting wildlife.
For a different experience, visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, more commonly known as Vandalur Zoo. This will surely be a great day out for nature lovers and families, housing over 200 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and aquatic animals.
Dive into Aquatic Adventures
Your list of things to do in Chennai cannot be complete without some water-based activities. Much has to be offered by this coastal city in the form of exciting opportunities in water sports. You could take up scuba diving and unravel the mysteries beneath the Bay of Bengal.
Shop til You Drop
Well, after visiting and experiencing so much, you definitely have a desire to do some shopping. For a more modern shopping experience, head over to the Phoenix Market City. With its range of international brands and local designer boutiques, you can have the pleasure of flipping through their collections while you are still in an air-conditioned environment.
Taste the Foods of Chennai
No visit to Chennai can ever be complete without indulging in its delectable food. Your taste buds will have a time of their life amidst the famous dosas of the city. These are crispy rice crepes that come with a variety of chutneys and sambar. Do not miss the rasam, which is a spicy and tangy soup and forms an integral part of Tamil cuisine.
For an authentic dining experience, search for local eateries that will give you a chance to taste these dishes in their original avatar. The burst of flavors in your mouth will be a testimonial of Chennai’s rich culinary heritage.
Take a chill at Marina Beach
Last on this list of popular things to do in Chennai is visiting Marina Beach. By afternoon, make your way to Marina Beach for an easygoing walk in the evening. The beach was ranked among one of the longest urban beaches in the world and could also be the perfect setting from which to view the sun dipping into the horizon. Feel the soft white sand below your feet and let the cool sea breeze brush all fatigue from your body. It’s a rather serene way to end your day that has otherwise been full of many things to do in Chennai.