Tour Central Chennai to discover ornate temples, old colonial landmarks, bustling bazaars, museums and a long sandy coastline. A collection of districts squeezed between the Cooum and Adyar rivers, it embodies Chennai’s role as a showcase of South India’s traditions old and new. Visit temples, browse street markets, dine on mouthwatering cuisine and hang out beachside.
Busy Triplicane has pulsating bazaars lined up alongside British Raj-era mansions and Dravidian-style temples. Peruse over 800 fish, meat and fresh produce traders at Zam Bazaar. The elaborate Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathyswamy Temple is one of the oldest structures in Chennai and Wallajah Mosque is a showcase of Mughal designs. Join cricket fans for a match at the century-old M.A. Chidambaram Stadium.
Find more striking religious monuments in upscale Mylapore, including the Dravidian masterpiece Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple. The neo-gothic Santhome Cathedral stands over the tomb of Saint Thomas and the Luz Church dazzles with its gold-leaf interior. Attend live music and dance performances at The Music Academy. Chennai Marina Lighthouse affords views of Chennai’s sweeping coastline.
Make your way to youthful Nungambakkam for independent fashion outlets and the stores of global brands. In T. Nagar shoppers move between the sari and jewelry shops on Ranganathan Street. Pause to snack on South Indian dishes at the area’s low-key restaurants and food stands. Royapettah has varied attractions such as the multi-dome Thousand Lights Mosque and Express Avenue mall.
Spend an afternoon away from the hectic city streets at breezy Marina Beach. From late afternoon, fortune tellers, tightrope walkers and street performers entertain the crowds. Watch fishermen sell their day’s catch and purchase sundal (spicy fried chickpeas) and corn cobs smothered in lime and chili. Impressive monuments frame the wide beachfront Kamarajar Promenade, namely the Anna Memorial, MGR Memorial and Mahatma Gandhi Statue.
Local trains and Chennai’s metro system travel throughout the districts of Central Chennai. Use auto-rickshaws for an affordable and authentic way to travel between attractions.
