Kapaleeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Mylapore area of Chennai. It is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Chennai, with a rich history and architecture. The temple has numerous shrines, sculptures, and carvings of various deities, and is a great place to learn about Hindu culture and traditions. The temple also has a tank where visitors can take a dip to cleanse their souls. Travelers can also enjoy shopping at the many street shops and stalls around the temple.
Santhome Cathedral is a towering Roman Catholic basilica located in the Santhome area of Chennai. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, who is believed to have preached in India in the 1st century AD. The cathedral has a stunning neo-gothic architecture, with elaborate stained-glass windows and a center nave that rises to a height of 155 feet. Visitors can explore the cathedral, attend mass, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Marina Beach is a stunning beach located in the heart of Chennai, and is the longest urban beach in India. Travelers can enjoy a pleasant walk along the beach, watch the waves crash ashore, and marvel at the colorful fishing boats bobbing in the distance. The beach is also home to several landmarks, including statues of Mahatma Gandhi and George IV, and the Chennai Lighthouse. Visitors can also indulge in delicious street food from the many food carts and stalls along the shoreline.
Fort St. George is a historic fortress located in the George Town area of Chennai. It was built in 1644 by the British East India Company and is one of the few remaining forts from the colonial era. The fort houses several historic buildings, including the St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India, and the Fort Museum, which has a collection of weapons, costumes, and antiques from the British era. Visitors can also explore the grounds and enjoy the stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
The Government Museum is a must-visit destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts. The museum has a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and coins, as well as exhibits on natural history, anthropology, and geology. Some of the highlights include the Bronze Gallery, which has idols and statues ranging from the Chola period to the Vijayanagar period, and the National Art Gallery, which showcases paintings by renowned Indian artists like Raja Ravi Varma and Abanindranath Tagore.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Chennai Rail Museum, which has a collection of vintage locomotives and artifacts. Art lovers can visit the Cholamandal Artists’ Village, a community of artists and sculptors that has a gallery showcasing their works. On the other hand, if you have less time, you can skip the Government Museum and instead visit the Birla Planetarium, which has an array of fascinating exhibits on astronomy and space science.