Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of the oldest temples in Chennai dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built-in Dravidian-style architecture, the temple is a popular place of worship and is frequented by devotees, tourists, and photographers alike. The temple has a majestic gopuram (tower) which rises to a height of 37 meters and is adorned with intricate carvings. The surroundings of the temple are bustling with activity, street vendors selling flowers, and shops selling religious items. Make sure to check the temple opening and closing times for the selected date before visiting.
The Government Museum in Chennai is a repository of ancient paintings, artifacts, and sculptures. It is the second-oldest museum in India after the Indian Museum in Kolkata. The museum has a wide range of collections covering various subjects like art, archaeology, zoology, geology, and more. One of the highlights of the museum is the Bronze Gallery, which showcases more than 1500 bronze artifacts, dating back to the 7th century. Visitors can easily spend a few hours exploring the museum's many galleries and admiring the beautiful exhibits. Make sure to check the museum opening and closing times for the selected date before visiting.
Marina Beach is one of the most popular beaches in India and stretches for approximately 13 kilometers along the Bay of Bengal. The beachfront is home to several restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors serving local delicacies such as sundal, murukku, and corn on the cob. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach, watch the fishermen bring in their catch, and soak in the fresh sea breeze. Make sure to visit the beach early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the scorching midday heat.
Fort St. George is a British fort built in the 17th century and served as the base for the East India Company's Madras Presidency. The fort is now home to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and other government offices. Visitors can explore the fort's many halls and museums, which contain various artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Chennai's colonial past. One of the key attractions is the Fort Museum, which showcases weapons, uniforms, and other memorabilia from the British era. Make sure to check the fort opening and closing times for the selected date before visiting.
If you have more time, you can visit other popular tourist attractions in Chennai like the Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage site, Santhome Cathedral, or the Valluvar Kottam. If you have less time, you can skip Fort St. George and spend more time exploring the other attractions. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's heat. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water and fresh coconut water. Make sure to carry cash as most street vendors and small shops may not accept credit/debit cards.