Things to do in Chennai: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Chennai
Overview: Arignar Anna Zoological Park is one of India’s largest zoos, home to a wide variety of wildlife species.
History: Established to conserve and protect endangered species, it was originally set up in 1855 before being relocated to its current location.
Since When: Relocated to Vandalur in 1985.
Review: A great place for animal lovers and families, offering well-maintained enclosures and informative exhibits.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and see active animals.
How to Go: Located about 30 km from Chennai city center, accessible by car, taxi, or suburban train.
What to Do: Explore animal enclosures, visit the butterfly house, and take a safari ride.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with additional charges for safaris.
VGP Universal Kingdom, Chennai
Overview: VGP Universal Kingdom is a popular amusement park featuring thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertainment shows.
History: Established as one of Chennai’s first amusement parks, it has evolved into a major entertainment destination.
Since When: Opened in 1975.
Review: A fun-filled destination for families and thrill-seekers, offering a mix of dry and water rides.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds, and during winter months for pleasant weather.
How to Go: Located on East Coast Road (ECR), easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Enjoy roller coasters, water rides, live shows, and the petting zoo.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with separate charges for certain rides.
Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J. Jayalalitha Memorial, Chennai
Overview: A grand memorial dedicated to the former Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers, M.G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalitha.
History: Built to honor their contributions to Tamil Nadu’s development and politics.
Since When: Opened in 2016.
Review: A well-maintained and serene memorial site, attracting political followers and tourists alike.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening for a peaceful experience with beautiful lighting.
How to Go: Located at Marina Beach, easily accessible by car, taxi, bus, or metro.
What to Do: Pay respects, explore the landscaped surroundings, and view the statues and inscriptions.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Besant Nagar Beach, Chennai
Overview: Also known as Elliot’s Beach, it is a serene and less crowded alternative to Marina Beach.
History: Named after the Theosophist Annie Besant, the beach has been a popular hangout spot for locals.
Since When: Recognized as a public beach since the colonial era.
Review: A peaceful and clean beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or evening to enjoy the cool breeze and avoid the heat.
How to Go: Located in Besant Nagar, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Take a stroll, enjoy local street food, and visit the nearby Ashtalakshmi Temple.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Queensland Amusement Park, Chennai
Overview: Queensland is a large amusement park offering thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertainment options for all age groups.
History: Established as a major recreational spot for families and adventure seekers in Chennai.
Since When: Opened in 2003.
Review: A fantastic place for thrill-seekers, with a variety of dry and water rides to enjoy.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays or during winter to avoid extreme heat and long queues.
How to Go: Located on the Chennai-Bangalore Highway, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Enjoy roller coasters, water slides, wave pools, and fun games.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with separate charges for some attractions.
VGP Snow Kingdom, Chennai
Overview: VGP Snow Kingdom is an indoor snow park offering a unique winter experience in the tropical city of Chennai.
History: Developed as a part of the VGP Universal Kingdom to provide a simulated snow environment for visitors.
Since When: Opened in 2015.
Review: A fun and exciting place to experience artificial snowfall, ice slides, and sub-zero temperatures.
When to Go: Best visited during the afternoon to escape Chennai’s heat.
How to Go: Located on East Coast Road (ECR), accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Enjoy snow games, ice slides, and photo opportunities in a winter wonderland setting.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Semmozhi Poonga, Chennai
Overview: Semmozhi Poonga is a beautifully landscaped botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants and trees.
History: Created by the Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department to promote environmental awareness and urban greenery.
Since When: Opened in 2010.
Review: A peaceful and well-maintained garden, ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or evening to enjoy the cool and serene atmosphere.
How to Go: Located in the city center, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Walk through themed gardens, explore rare plant species, and relax in nature.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Arulmigu Vadapalani Murugan Temple, Chennai
Overview: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance.
History: Built over a century ago, the temple has been a major pilgrimage site for Murugan devotees.
Since When: Established in the late 19th century.
Review: A divine and peaceful place, attracting devotees and tourists seeking blessings and cultural insights.
When to Go: Best visited during early morning or evening prayers for a spiritual experience.
How to Go: Located in Vadapalani, easily accessible by metro, car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Offer prayers, admire the intricate carvings, and participate in temple rituals.
Free or Paid: Free entry, with special darshan options available for a fee.
Guindy National Park, Chennai
Overview: Guindy National Park is a protected wildlife sanctuary offering a natural escape within Chennai city.
History: Once part of the Raj Bhavan estate, it was converted into a national park to conserve urban wildlife.
Since When: Declared a national park in 1976.
Review: A great place for nature enthusiasts to spot wildlife, enjoy greenery, and learn about conservation.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning to spot animals and enjoy the fresh air.
How to Go: Located near Adyar, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Explore nature trails, visit the children’s park and snake park, and observe deer and birds.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathyswamy Temple, Chennai
Overview: A historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its Dravidian architecture and religious significance.
History: Built in the 8th century by the Pallava kings, it is one of the oldest temples in Chennai.
Since When: Established around the 8th century.
Review: A serene and spiritually enriching temple, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or during festival celebrations for an immersive experience.
How to Go: Located in Triplicane, easily accessible by car, taxi, bus, or metro.
What to Do: Offer prayers, admire the ancient sculptures, and witness temple rituals.
Free or Paid: Free entry, with special puja offerings available at a cost.
Anna Tower, Chennai
Overview: Anna Tower is a landmark structure located within the Anna Nagar Tower Park, offering panoramic city views.
History: Built as part of the Anna Nagar Tower Park development to serve as a recreational spot for residents.
Since When: Opened in the 1970s.
Review: A great place for visitors to enjoy an aerial view of Chennai while relaxing in a green park environment.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening for a cooler experience and a pleasant city view.
How to Go: Located in Anna Nagar, easily accessible by metro, car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Climb the tower for city views, walk in the park, and enjoy leisure activities.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
VGP Marine Kingdom, Chennai
Overview: VGP Marine Kingdom is an underwater aquarium showcasing diverse marine life through immersive exhibits.
History: Developed as an expansion of VGP’s entertainment facilities to educate and entertain visitors about aquatic ecosystems.
Since When: Opened in 2019.
Review: A fascinating experience for families and marine life enthusiasts, with well-designed underwater tunnels.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located on East Coast Road (ECR), accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Explore marine exhibits, walk through the underwater tunnel, and learn about aquatic species.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
MGM Dizzee World, Chennai
Overview: MGM Dizzee World is one of Chennai’s largest amusement parks, featuring thrilling rides and entertainment for all ages.
History: Established to provide a fun-filled recreational space for families and thrill-seekers.
Since When: Opened in the early 1990s.
Review: A well-maintained amusement park with a variety of rides, water attractions, and live shows.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays to avoid long queues and enjoy rides freely.
How to Go: Located on East Coast Road (ECR), easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Enjoy roller coasters, water rides, and adventure attractions suitable for all ages.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Marina Beach, Chennai
Overview: Marina Beach is India’s longest urban beach, stretching along the Bay of Bengal and attracting tourists and locals alike.
History: A natural sandy coastline that has been a prominent landmark of Chennai for centuries.
Since When: Recognized as a public beach since British colonial times.
Review: A vibrant and scenic spot, perfect for long walks, sunset views, and experiencing local street food.
When to Go: Best visited early morning or evening to avoid the heat.
How to Go: Located in the heart of Chennai, accessible by car, taxi, bus, or metro.
What to Do: Walk along the shore, enjoy street food, take horse rides, and visit nearby attractions.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Chennai Lighthouse, Chennai
Overview: Chennai Lighthouse is a historic coastal landmark offering stunning views of Marina Beach and the Bay of Bengal.
History: Originally built in 1796 and later reconstructed multiple times, the current version was established to guide ships.
Since When: The modern lighthouse has been in operation since 1977.
Review: A great place for photography and panoramic coastal views, providing insight into maritime history.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening for breathtaking sunset views.
How to Go: Located near Marina Beach, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Climb to the top for stunning sea views, visit the maritime museum, and explore the nearby beach.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
ISKCON Chennai, Chennai
Overview: ISKCON Chennai is a spiritual and cultural center dedicated to Lord Krishna, promoting devotion through prayers and teachings.
History: Established by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) to spread the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
Since When: Opened in 2012.
Review: A peaceful and well-maintained temple offering spiritual programs, traditional architecture, and a serene atmosphere.
When to Go: Best visited during the evening aarti or festive occasions like Janmashtami.
How to Go: Located in Sholinganallur, accessible by car, taxi, or bus from different parts of Chennai.
What to Do: Attend prayer sessions, explore the temple premises, and visit the gift shop for spiritual souvenirs.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Panagal Park, Chennai
Overview: Panagal Park is a centrally located green space offering relaxation and recreational activities for visitors.
History: Named after Raja of Panagal, this park was established as a public garden and leisure space.
Since When: Built in the early 20th century.
Review: A peaceful and well-maintained park, ideal for morning walks, jogging, and relaxation amidst greenery.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or evening for a refreshing experience.
How to Go: Located in T. Nagar, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Walk, jog, relax, and enjoy the calm environment amidst the bustling city.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, Chennai
Overview: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) in Chennai is a temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, serving devotees who cannot travel to Tirupati.
History: Established as an extension of the main Tirupati temple to facilitate worship for Chennai residents.
Since When: Opened in the late 20th century.
Review: A well-maintained temple that provides devotees with an authentic spiritual experience similar to the Tirupati temple.
When to Go: Best visited early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan.
How to Go: Located in T. Nagar, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Participate in prayers, seek blessings, and enjoy the temple’s serene ambiance.
Free or Paid: Free entry, but special darshan may have a paid option.
Government Museum Chennai, Chennai
Overview: The Government Museum Chennai is one of India’s oldest museums, showcasing a vast collection of art, archaeology, and natural history exhibits.
History: Established by the British during colonial rule to preserve and display historical artifacts.
Since When: Founded in 1851.
Review: A must-visit for history enthusiasts, featuring rare relics, ancient sculptures, and a large collection of South Indian heritage.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located in Egmore, accessible by car, taxi, bus, or metro.
What to Do: Explore art galleries, view ancient artifacts, and visit the children’s museum.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum, Chennai
Overview: Dakshina Chitra is a living heritage museum that showcases the culture, architecture, and traditions of South India.
History: Developed as a cultural preservation initiative to highlight the lifestyle of South Indian communities.
Since When: Opened in 1996.
Review: A beautifully curated space offering an immersive experience of traditional South Indian homes, crafts, and folk performances.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning to explore the museum at a relaxed pace.
How to Go: Located on East Coast Road (ECR), accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Explore traditional houses, watch folk performances, and participate in cultural workshops.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Chennai
Overview: The Mahatma Gandhi Statue is a historical landmark on Marina Beach, honoring India’s Father of the Nation.
History: Installed to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s role in India’s independence and inspire patriotism.
Since When: Erected in 1959.
Review: A significant monument offering a picturesque view of the beach, attracting both tourists and locals.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or evening for a peaceful experience.
How to Go: Located on Marina Beach Road, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Take photographs, relax by the beach, and explore nearby attractions.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Sivan Park, Chennai
Overview: Sivan Park is a serene green space in K.K. Nagar, ideal for relaxation and exercise.
History: Developed as a public recreational area to provide a natural retreat within the city.
Since When: Opened in the early 2000s.
Review: A well-maintained park with walking tracks, children’s play areas, and a peaceful ambiance.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or evening for a refreshing walk.
How to Go: Located in K.K. Nagar, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Walk, jog, meditate, and enjoy the greenery.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple, Chennai
Overview: The Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple is a unique beachfront temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi in her eight forms.
History: Built to honor the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and well-being, showcasing intricate architecture.
Since When: Established in the late 20th century.
Review: A peaceful and scenic temple offering spiritual solace with a breathtaking sea view.
When to Go: Best visited during festival days or early mornings for a calm experience.
How to Go: Located in Besant Nagar, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Offer prayers, explore the temple’s unique architecture, and enjoy the sea breeze.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple, Chennai
Overview: The Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its medicinal and healing significance.
History: Believed to be built during the Chola dynasty, it has been a place of worship and healing for centuries.
Since When: Dates back to the 11th century.
Review: A historically rich and spiritually significant temple, attracting both devotees and history enthusiasts.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or during festival times for a divine experience.
How to Go: Located in Thiruvanmiyur, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Offer prayers, explore the temple’s ancient architecture, and seek blessings for health.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Kaalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple, Chennai
Overview: The Kaalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kaalikambal and Lord Kamadeswarar.
History: Originally located near the sea, the temple was moved inland to protect it from invasions and has been a center of worship for centuries.
Since When: Believed to have existed since the 17th century.
Review: A spiritually powerful temple with a deep connection to Chennai’s cultural and religious heritage.
When to Go: Best visited during morning and evening pujas for a divine experience.
How to Go: Located in George Town, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Offer prayers, explore the temple’s history, and experience the vibrant religious atmosphere.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Chennai Snake Park, Chennai
Overview: Chennai Snake Park is a reptile conservation center showcasing a variety of snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles.
History: Established to promote awareness and conservation of reptiles in India.
Since When: Founded in 1972 by Romulus Whitaker.
Review: A fascinating place for wildlife enthusiasts and educational visits.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning to see active reptiles and avoid the afternoon heat.
How to Go: Located near Guindy National Park, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Observe reptiles up close, attend informative sessions, and learn about venom extraction.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Dr. Natesan Park, Chennai
Overview: Dr. Natesan Park is a well-maintained public park with lush greenery, walking paths, and a children’s play area.
History: Developed as a recreational space for Chennai residents to enjoy nature and fitness activities.
Since When: Opened in the late 20th century.
Review: A peaceful escape within the city, ideal for morning walks and family outings.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or evening for a relaxing stroll.
How to Go: Located in T. Nagar, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Walk, jog, relax in the greenery, and enjoy the children’s play area.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Vivekananda House, Chennai
Overview: Vivekananda House is a historical landmark where Swami Vivekananda stayed during his visit to Chennai.
History: Originally built as an ice storage facility, it was later converted into a memorial for Swami Vivekananda.
Since When: Associated with Swami Vivekananda’s stay in 1897.
Review: A must-visit for those interested in Indian spirituality and history.
When to Go: Best visited during the day to explore the exhibits and meditation hall.
How to Go: Located near Marina Beach, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Explore exhibits on Swami Vivekananda, attend meditation sessions, and visit the library.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Chetpet Ecopark, Chennai
Overview: Chetpet Ecopark is an urban eco-friendly park with a large lake and recreational activities.
History: Developed to promote environmental awareness and provide a green space in Chennai.
Since When: Opened to the public in 2016.
Review: A refreshing getaway with boating, fishing, and a well-maintained walking track.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening for a pleasant outdoor experience.
How to Go: Located in Chetpet, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Enjoy boating, go fishing, walk along the lake, and explore the nature trails.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple, Chennai
Overview: Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, featuring representations of his six abodes.
History: Built to bring the spiritual essence of the six major Murugan temples into one place.
Since When: Established in the late 20th century.
Review: A spiritually significant temple offering devotees a divine and peaceful ambiance.
When to Go: Best visited during early morning or evening prayers for a spiritual experience.
How to Go: Located in Besant Nagar, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Offer prayers, explore the temple architecture, and participate in religious ceremonies.
Free or Paid: Free entry.