Top 5 Things to Do in Chennai

Beaches, temples, monuments. Modern day Chennai is deep rooted in reflections of a rich heritage and cultural past, offering a wholesome holiday experience to visitors to the city. Set on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, this sixth largest city in India is a fast growing metropolis. If your travels take you to the ‘gateway of South India’, here’s our pick of top 5 things to do in Chennai.

1. Go Wild at Guindy National Park

Chennai is one of the few cities in India that has a national park within its city limits. Spanning about 2.7 square kilometres, Guindy National Park comprises forests, lakes and streams. Amidst this beautiful landscape, wildlife to be found here include the endangered blackbuck, spotted deer, reptiles, birds and varieties of insects and butterflies. Within the confines of Guindy National Park is also a children’s park and snake park.

2. Eat like a Local

When in Chennai, eat as Chennaiites do! There is nothing not to love about authentic Tamil food. Always served fresh, treat your taste-buds to idli, dosa, vadai, porial, parotta…the list is endless. Aside from breakfast, lunch and dinner, Chennaiites also enjoy tiffin, which is usually a mini meal eaten in place of breakfast or early dinner. Enjoy a delicious and reasonably priced south Indian meal at the city’s many local restaurants, cafes and bhavans.

3. Join a Turtle Walk

The beaches in Chennai, namely Besant Nagar, Marina, Neelankarai and Muthukadu are prolific nesting grounds for the endangered species of Oliver Ridley sea turtles. During the nesting season from December to April, several volunteer organizations scout the beaches at night to collect turtle eggs and relocate them to a safer habitat. Once the turtle hatchlings emerge, the creatures are released in to the water. Being part of the conservation effort makes for a rewarding experience on the list of things to do in Chennai.

4. Drive on ECR

If you’re looking for a cityscape, then get your motor running and get on the East Coast Road (ECR). The picturesque ECR along the Bay of Bengal runs from Chennai to Cuddalore along the southern coast. There are several spots to stop at along the way including the ancient temple town of Mahabalipuram, about 60 kilometres from Chennai. Other places of interest are the ISCKON Temple, Cholamandal Artists’ Village and the heritage village of Dakshinchitra.

5. Follow the Temple Trail

One of the many facets of Chennai is its religious appeal. The city is home to ancient temples with a rich mythological and spiritual draw that sees several visitors coming from near and far to seek blessings. Amongst the popular temples are the Parthasarthy Temple and Kapaleeswarar Temple.  

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