Things to do in Chennai

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Ganesha Ratha which includes art

Chennai Attractions

A world of beauty and allure can be found in Chennai, India. Formerly known as Madras, this city is also full of exciting places and tourist attractions. A detailed map of the city will point you to all of the best places while you are embarking upon your Chennai excursions.

The versatility of this city is one of its most interesting aspects. The old and modern buildings standing next to one another will give you a full sense of this city’s unique qualities. The picturesque water front gives you optimal views of the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is also known as a main industrial center in the country and is even sometimes referred to as the “Detroit of India” due to its involvement in the automobile industry.

While taking Chennai tours, you can stop by one of the top local museums. The National Art Gallery contains exquisite paintings dating back hundreds of years. Magnificent artifacts recovered from archaeological expeditions can be seen inside the Government Museum.

Chennai is also known for its beautiful temples. The elaborate Kapaleshwar Hindu Temple is definitely a must see attraction. Other temples and sacred spots worth checking out include Kalikambal, Vadapalani Murugan, and Shirdi Sai Baba.

The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is another one of the best tourist attractions in Chennai. Monkeys, lions, and tigers are just a few of the animals you can view at this attraction. The park is also home to a variety of exotic birds and reptiles.

All of the exciting things to do in Chennai will surely keep you entertained throughout your visit. You can enjoy all of the wonderful Chennai activities and still have some money to spare when you book your flight, hotel stay, and car rental through Expedia.com.


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Most popular activities in Chennai

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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What to do in Chennai

Free Things to Do in Chennai

Traveling on a budget in Chennai? Spend time, not your paycheck, on awesome experiences.

Tamilnadu Science and Technology Centres - Chock-full of exhibits and artifacts, this gallery is a paradise for hungry minds.

Madras War Cemetery - If you'd love to explore the region's history through its landmarks, put this one on your to-do list.

MIOT International Hospital - Open up your guidebook and find out why this place is worth adding to your travel itinerary.

Ananthaa Padmanabha Swaamy Temple - No matter your religious leanings, this place will inspire a sense of reverence in you.

Children's Park - Grab your rug, pack some nibbles and find a shady area to be with nature.

Things to Do in Chennai with Kids

There's fun for all the family wherever you wander in Chennai. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that are certain to make your trip a blast:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Chennai? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Chennai on a sunny day?
If you’re in the mood for a little fun under the sun, you’ll love these outdoor activities:


Are there cheap things to do in Chennai?
What can you do in Chennai for free?
You could put your cash in the hotel safe for the day, because these excellent attractions won’t cost you a penny:

  • Marina Beach
  • Sankara Nethralaya
  • MIOT International Hospital
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple


Discover the most popular places to visit in Chennai

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Chennai

Colorful glass bangles and pretty henna. Bangle shops that sell colorful bangles to match the colors in your sarees!!! 
#riotofcolors 
#colorful

T Nagar

4/5(45 area reviews)

T Nagar is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Pondy Bazaar and Thirumalai Thirupathi Devasthanam while you're in town.

T Nagar
Valluvar Kottam - Monument to remember Thiruvalluvar

Nungambakkam

3.5/5(26 area reviews)

You'll enjoy the cafes and monuments in Nungambakkam. You might want to make time for a stop at Valluvar Kottam or SDAT Tennis Stadium.

Nungambakkam
Chennai which includes religious aspects

Guindy

4/5(42 area reviews)

Unique features of Guindy include the shopping and spas. Make a stop by Phoenix Market City or Guindy Race Course while you're exploring the area.

Guindy
St. Andrew\'s Kirk featuring a church or cathedral and heritage elements

Egmore

3/5(13 area reviews)

Fabric markets, grandiose architecture, a royal history and excellent museums characterize this vibrant neighborhood set on the north bank of the Cooum River.

Egmore
Armenian Church featuring a city and street scenes

Central Chennai

4/5(61 area reviews)

The heart of Tamil Nadu’s vibrant capital city is an enthralling crossroads of art and architecture, ancient religious history, modern lifestyles and mouthwatering cuisine.

Central Chennai
Kala Nikethan is a store that sells beautiful salwars and designer sarees. I love love this black one with colorful brocade and a colorful dupatta. And I love pink too! #colormecrazy #colorsplash 
#colorful

Anna Nagar

3/5(4 area reviews)

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Anna Nagar and surrounding area, you can visit Vadapalani Murugan Temple and Valluvar Kottam.

Anna Nagar

Popular day trips from Chennai