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Fort Saint George
ChennaiFirst British Fortress in India
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Overview
Built on the banks of Bay of Bengal by the British in 1640, this fort was the nucleus around which Chennai (then Madras) gradually developed. Today it is home to government/ administrative departments.
Open Hours
Suggested Duration - 1 to 1.5 hours
What To Expect?
Marvel at the complex’s stunning architecture, visit the ancient Anglican church of St Mary’s renowned for its artistic frescoes and hear fascinating tales of Tipu Sultan at the Fort Museum.
Tips
- The Fort is open from 9am to 5pm (closed on Fridays) and has an entry ticket of INR 5.
- Must-see museum treasures: first Indian flag flown after independence and original handwritten letters of that era.
- Nearby attractions worth visiting: Madras High Court and Victoria War Memorial.
- Since it is a government building, keep in mind that some areas are not open to public.
Fort Saint George, Chennai Overview!
Fort Saint George, located in the bustling city of Chennai, is a historical monument known for its rich history and architectural beauty. Built in 1644 by the British East India Company, it is famous for being the first British fortress in India. The fort houses St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India, and the Fort Museum, which displays many artefacts from the colonial period.
| Fort Saint George is known for | its grandeur and the pivotal role it played in setting up the British Empire in India. |
|---|---|
| Timings | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day except Fridays |
| Entry Fee | INR 15 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign nationals. |
| Tips | It's advisable to hire a guide to fully understand the historical significance of the fort. |
| Require Time | Approximately 2-3 hours should be sufficient to explore the fort and its museum. |
| Restricted Items | Large bags and food items are not allowed inside the fort. |
More About Fort Saint George
The fort also hosts a light and sound show in the evenings, which narrates the history of the fort and the city of Chennai.
Architecture of Fort Saint George
The fort exhibits colonial architecture with well-preserved walls, gates, and church. The fort's museum showcases a collection of colonial artefacts, paintings, coins, and weapons.
Best time to visit Fort Saint George
The best time to visit is between November and February when the weather in Chennai is pleasant.
How to reach Fort Saint George
The fort is well-connected by road and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or public buses from any part of Chennai.
Tips for Visiting Fort Saint George, Chennai
Carry a water bottle and wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Also, don't forget to carry your camera to capture the beautiful architecture and surroundings.
Nearby tourist spots of Fort Saint George
Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world, and the Chennai Lighthouse are popular tourist spots near Fort Saint George.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Saint George
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