ChennaiTravel Guide

The world's second-longest urban beach comes alive before sunrise with joggers, vendors selling sundal and bajji, and fishermen hauling in their overnight catch — a quintessential slice of Chennai life.

A vibrant 7th-century Dravidian temple in the heart of Mylapore, dedicated to Shiva — its towering, intricately sculpted gopuram and the daily rhythm of rituals offer a window into Tamil Nadu's living temple culture.

A striking neo-Gothic basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have been martyred near Chennai in 72 AD — one of only three churches in the world built over an apostle's tomb.

The first English fortress in India, built in 1644 — within its walls stand the oldest Anglican church in Asia and a museum housing Raj-era weapons, coins, and portraits that trace the birth of colonial Madras.

One of the oldest temples in Chennai, dating to the 8th century — dedicated to Krishna as Parthasarathy (Arjuna's charioteer), its Pallava-era architecture and continuous worship for over a millennium make it a must for temple architecture enthusiasts.

One of the oldest museums in India, housing an outstanding collection of Chola bronzes, archaeological finds, and a dedicated children's museum — set within a striking Indo-Saracenic building complex.

A Chennai institution serving fluffy idlis, crisp dosas, and rich filter coffee since 1968 — the queue out the door at any hour is the only review you need.

Reputedly Asia's busiest shopping street — a sensory overload of silk sarees, gold jewellery, and bargains in T. Nagar, where an estimated half a million shoppers pass through daily.

A calmer, cleaner alternative to Marina Beach with a laid-back promenade, the Karl Schmidt Memorial, and some of the city's best beachside cafes and ice cream stalls — popular for an evening stroll.

A living-history museum on the East Coast Road showcasing authentic relocated houses, crafts, and performances from across South India — artisans demonstrate weaving, pottery, and puppetry throughout the day.