What to do in Chennai

Activities, attractions and tours
Ganesha Ratha showing 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 fun & popular experiences in Chennai

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Explore areas of Chennai

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

4/5(16 area reviews)

T Nagar is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Pondy Bazaar and Sringeri Saradha Peetam Temple while you're in town.

T Nagar
Valluvar Kottam - Monument to remember Thiruvalluvar

Nungambakkam

3/5(3 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

3.5/5(9 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
Armenian Church featuring a city and street scenes

Central Chennai

4.5/5(4 area reviews)

The churches and monuments are just a few things visitors like about Central Chennai. Madras High Court and Anna Salai are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Washermanpet Metro Station or Mannadi Metro Station to get around the larger area.

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

Egmore

3.5/5(5 area reviews)

You'll enjoy the monuments and spas in Egmore. You might want to make time for a stop at Government Museum or St. Andrew's Kirk.

Egmore
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Sholinganallur

Visitors to Sholinganallur enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, AKDR Golf Village is worth a stop.

Sholinganallur

Day trip destinations from Chennai