Chennai, a vibrant coastal city in South India, is rich in history, culture, and a blend of the old and the new. For travelers short on time but keen to experience the essence of this bustling metropolis, we have curated a list of places to visit in Chennai in 1 day. Whether you’re drawn to ancient temples, modern landmarks, or serene beaches, Chennai has something for everyone.
Details Places to Visit in Chennai in 1 Day
Let’s dive into the must-visit spots if you’re spending just one day in the city.
1. Marina Beach
Location: Marina Beach Road, Chennai
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening
One of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach is an iconic landmark of Chennai. The sight of the sunrise over the Bay of Bengal is breathtaking, making it an ideal start to your day. As you stroll along the sandy stretch, you will come across several historical monuments, including statues of prominent figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose. The nearby lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the city and sea, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
2. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Location: Mylapore, Chennai
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for a spiritual experience
This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a quintessential representation of Dravidian architecture. The towering gopuram (gateway) adorned with intricate carvings is awe-inspiring. Kapaleeshwarar Temple, situated in the heart of Mylapore, is not just a place of worship but also a hub of cultural activities. You can witness classical dance performances or traditional music events during your visit. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere amidst the hustle of the city offers a refreshing spiritual retreat.
3. San Thome Basilica
Location: Santhome High Road, Chennai
Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening
A visit to the San Thome Basilica takes you through an essential chapter in Chennai’s Christian heritage. This Neo-Gothic structure, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, stands out with its white facade and tall spires. The stained-glass windows and the serene interior of the church provide a tranquil space for reflection. You can also explore the museum that displays relics associated with St. Thomas. This spot is particularly significant for history and architecture lovers.
4. Fort St. George
Location: Rajaji Salai, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Entry Fee: ₹15 (Indian), ₹200 (Foreigners)
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to early afternoon
Fort St. George, built in 1644 by the British East India Company, marks the beginning of British rule in India. The fort now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and a museum that showcases artifacts from the colonial era, including weapons, coins, and paintings. The fort is a must-visit for those interested in India’s colonial history and offers a glimpse into the architectural style of the British Raj.
5. Government Museum
Location: Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Entry Fee: ₹15 (Indian), ₹250 (Foreigners)
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
Located in Egmore, the Government Museum is one of the oldest and most comprehensive museums in India. The museum has an extensive collection of archaeological and numismatic artifacts, along with bronze idols, and exhibits from the Chola dynasty. The museum’s six buildings also include the National Art Gallery. With vast collections ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art, it’s a place where history buffs can easily spend hours.
6. Guindy National Park
Location: Sardar Patel Road, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Adults), ₹10 (Children)
Best Time to Visit: Early morning
For nature lovers, a visit to Guindy National Park offers a respite from the city’s bustling streets. This urban national park is home to a variety of species, including spotted deer, jackals, and over 130 species of birds. It’s also a fantastic spot for families, as the park includes a children’s play area and a snake park. The well-maintained trails are perfect for a leisurely walk amidst greenery.
7. DakshinaChitra
Location: East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: ₹120 (Adults), ₹30 (Children)
Best Time to Visit: Late morning or afternoon
For those interested in the cultural heritage of South India, DakshinaChitra is a must-visit. This living-history museum showcases the traditional architecture, crafts, and performing arts of the four southern states—Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. The meticulously recreated houses from different regions provide a deep insight into the rich cultural diversity of South India. Workshops on pottery, weaving, and painting are also conducted here, making it an interactive experience.
8. Elliot’s Beach
Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Evening
After a long day of sightseeing, unwind at Elliot’s Beach, located in Besant Nagar. This serene beach is less crowded than Marina Beach, making it an ideal spot to relax. The nearby Velankanni Church and the Ashtalakshmi Temple add a spiritual touch to the surroundings. Take a walk along the coastline, enjoy some local street food, or simply sit by the shore and watch the sunset.
Top 8 Places to Visit in Chennai in 1 Day Table
| Place | Location | Timings | Entry Fee | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marina Beach | Marina Beach Road | Open 24 hours | Free | Early morning or evening |
| Kapaleeshwarar Temple | Mylapore | 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Free | Morning hours |
| San Thome Basilica | Santhome High Road | 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Free | Morning or evening |
| Fort St. George | Rajaji Salai | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Fridays) | ₹15 (Indian), ₹200 (Foreigners) | Mid-morning to early afternoon |
| Government Museum | Pantheon Road, Egmore | 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Fridays) | ₹15 (Indian), ₹250 (Foreigners) | Morning or late afternoon |
| Guindy National Park | Sardar Patel Road | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM | ₹20 (Adults), ₹10 (Children) | Early morning |
| DakshinaChitra | East Coast Road, Muttukadu | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays) | ₹120 (Adults), ₹30 (Children) | Late morning or afternoon |
| Elliot’s Beach | Besant Nagar | Open 24 hours | Free | Evening |
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Inspired By: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tourist_attractions_in_Chennai
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