Chennai Tours



Chennai Travel

We inChennai are a reputed company offering multi-product travel services. We aim to develop and provide innovative and competent services to our esteemed customers. We have a team of dedicated professionals striving hard to provide best services to the clients. Our team of tour planners, designers, expert tour organizers and professional tour guides along with friendly staff members ensure to give the guests rich holiday experience. We offer complete travel management right from planning to execution of tours. Our goal is to provide you with professional and personal attention to all your travel needs. Our services include complete travel arrangements including airline/train ticketing, hotel accommodation and car rental reservations. We organize tours, sightseeing trips and excursions, all within your specific budget. You can even discover the little known and off the beaten tracks places all organized and arranged to the minutest details.

Travel Services for Chennai

We are happy to help you arrange your holiday in India. We offer the following services

  • Car Rentals for Chennai
  • Flight Booking for Chennai
  • Hotel Booking for Chennai
  • Tour Booking for Chennai

Please let us know your requirements. We are glad to help you enjoy a comfortable and pleasant holiday in Chennai.

Car Rentals for Chennai We at inChennai are committed to make your holiday in Chennai a memorable and pleasant affair. We offer car drives for your convenience from and to the destinations of your choice. We provide efficient and luxurious vehicles for your convenience and comfort. Our fleet of cars provides a wide variety of cars to suit all budgets. From economy vehicles to chauffeur driven luxury cars -we have all to suit your taste. Your transportation needs to and from the airport or the station, sightseeing, excursions within and around the city will also be taken care of. Simply list your requirements and budget to us and relax to enjoy the vacation of your lifetime. We strive to make your holiday most comfortable.

Flight Booking For Chennai inChennai provides great deals on domestic and international air bookings in India. We have excellent relations with the leading domestic and international airlines operating in India and that helps us in getting the best deals for you. Contact us for all your air travel needs and we will strive to get you the best package available. Fill in the query form at the end of this page with relevant query and send it to us immediately. Our travel planners would come back to you with the most exciting offers.

Hotel Booking for Chennai We at inChennai provide booking in any hotel of any category in the city of Chennai.Owing to our good contacts with hotel industry we offer best rates to our clients. Please enter our hotel query form and just let us know your budget and category of hotel and relax. Our team of professionals will take care of everything and will provide you with suitable options.

Tour Booking for Chennai Many travelers often wonder at the problems they might face while planning their tours. These problems can be anything from getting best deals from the agents or getting right accommodation or train /air booking on right time or seeing all the tourist attractions. Now you need not worry about these things. You tell us your budget, your interests, time in hand, preferred mode of travel and we will plan your trip according to your choice to give you real travel experience. Now you can book tours and activities in Chennai online. Confirmed reservations for a wide selection of adventure tours, sightseeing tours, activities and more in Chennai. Reserve your place before you get there!

Travel Destinations in Chennai, India

The Travel Destination of Chennai is dotted with places worth seeing in and around it. Make your holidays at Chennai more enjoyable by seeing these travel destinations in Chennai.

  • Kalakshetra Rukmini Devi Arundale founded a world-renowned centre of excellence for dance, music, arts and crafts, in 1936. Housed on over 100 acres at Thiruvanmiyur, it has produced many fine exponents of the Bharatnatyam dance tradition. Following the ancient Gurukula system of education, students from across the globe are taught nuances of traditional dance, music and art amidst the fresh air, large trees and the chirping of birds.
  • Theosophical Society Founded by Madame H.P. Blavatsky and Col. H.S. Olcott in 1875 .It is located on a vast expanse of over 250 acres on the banks of the Adyar estuary amidst the natural surroundings. It provides a peaceful retreat from the city. The Adyar Banyan tree with its roots spreading over 40,000 sq.ft and its library, a research centre in eastern civilization, philosophy and religion, are worth seeing. There is a church, mosque, Buddhist shrine and Hindu temple on the grounds.
  • Lalit Kala Akademi Located on Greams Road you can see Paintings, artifacts from artists and artisans from every nook and corner of India here. Equal importance is also placed on literature, especially the vernacular ones.
  • Tamilnadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu A state-level cultural organization set-up by the State Government at Pantheon Road, Egmore for promoting visual and graphic arts in the state through well-structured programmes.
  • Birla Planetarium Part of the Periyar Science and Technology Centre at Kotturpuram, this is a voyage of discovery for the young and the old. This air-conditioned modern planetarium with a seating capacity of 236 brings to life celestial phenomena replete with special effects. It also conducts courses in astronomy and night-sky observations for public on every second Saturday.
  • Valluvar Kottam The memorial to the poet-saint Tiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. A life-size statue of the saint has been installed in the 33m tall chariot. The 133 chapters of his famous work Thirukkural have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. The auditorium at Valluvar Kottam is said to be the largest in Asia and can accommodate about 4000 people. It stands as a modern memorial to the great poet who represents the glorious culture of the Tamils.
  • Fort St. George Today, the seat of the State Legislative Assembly, it was once a British bastion. Built in 1640, the fort stills retains its large walls, massive wrought iron gates and deep moats. The Fort Museum, St. Mary’s church, Town Hall, the tallest flagstaff et al lie within this fort.
  • Film City A favorite fixture with film producers of the South, it is also a popular tourist spot. The restaurant in this complex, Taramani Talkies, will appeal those who are looking for an offbeat decor. AVM studios are the only one routinely open to the public.
  • High Court A magnificent example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. In 1841, a granite Doric column of 49m was erected to function as the second light house. Besides the High Court, the Small Causes Court and the City Civil Court function here.
  • Ripon Building The attractive white structure, close to Chennai Central, is 252 ft. long and 126 ft wide. It has a 132 ft tall tower and a mighty clock 8 ft in diameter. Currently, it is the headquarters of Chennai Corporation.
  • Government Museum This Museum is worth visiting. The main building has a fine archaeological section representing all the major South Indian periods including Chola, Vijaynagara, Hoysala and Chalukya.The bronze gallery has a superb collection of Chola Art. You will find the most impressive bronze statue of Lord. Ardhanarishwra.You can also visit the National Art Gallery located in the same compound. The fascinating array of 10th -18th century Mughal, Rajasthani and Deccan artworks are displayed here.
  • Vivekananda Museum The Vivekananda Museum on South Beach Road is located in a building formerly known as the Ice House that used to store the massive ice blocks transported from North America. Later Swami Vivekananda used to preach from the same venue. Now it houses the collection of photographs and memorabilia from his life.
  • Development Centre for Musical Instruments You will find numerous ancient and modern Indian musical instruments exhibited here.
  • St Andrews Church This classical style church was completed in 1821.The impressive blue dome is decorated with gold stars.
  • Shri Parthasarathy Temple Dedicated to lord Krishna this one of the oldest surviving temples in Chennai was build in the 8th century by the Pallava Rulers. The Vijaynagara Kings again renovated it in 16th century.
  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple Constructed in the Dravidian style, this ancient temple is dedicated to lord Shiva .It displays the architectural elements like gopurams, mandapams and a tank.
  • SanThome Cathedral This Roman Catholic church built in Neo Gothic style located near Kapaleeshwarar temple is said to house the remains of St Thomas the Apostle.
  • Luz Church This 16th century church is dedicated to Our Lady of Light said to be oldest church in Chennai.It was built by Portuguese sailors as a thanksgiving to Our Lady.
  • Guindy national Park, Snake Park and Children’s Park These parks are located adjacent to each other in Adyar.The children’s park is small and pleasant with small animals like peacocks, otters and porcupines etc. You will find two elephants lounge under the watchful eyes of their mahout. Snake Park with its lizards, crocodiles and turtles is more interesting.
  • Little Mount Church Known locally as Chinnamalai this tiny cave is said to be the place where St.Thomas believed to have lived when he came to India around AD 58.Enter the cave via Portuguese church built in 1551.
  • Vadapalani Temple The Vadapalani Andavar temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga being built 125 years ago. Renowned for bringing people together, this temple conducts about 7,000 weddings annually.
  • Ashtalakshmi Temple This new temple is one of the three shore temples open to worship on the east coast. Dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi in her eight forms it is located on Elliots Beach.
  • Mangadu Temple Famous for the idol of the Goddess Parvati performing one of her many penances - standing on the leg over the five fires with a visage showing perfect serenity. It is 23 kms from the heart of the city located between Iyyappanthangal & Poonamallee.
  • Christ the King Church Commissioned by French clergymen this church was designed and built by an Indian mason in 1933. It is a fine example of gothic architecture standing majestically in the middle of Loyola College campus. It has pointed arches, ribbed vaults, rose windows, three-aisled nave and flying buttresses. Covering an area of 150 feet by 60 feet, with stained glass windows, this church is a captivating sight, inside as well as outside. The spire is 157 feet high and has a stairway leading to the top, where a cross stands.
  • Kali Bari Temple This is a replica of the famed Kalighata Temple in Calcutta thronged by Bengalis.
  • The Armenian Church of Virgin Mary Built, in 1772, on the site of the Armenian cemetery, this church houses a magnificent belfry six bells, claimed to be the largest bells in Chennai. It is located on Armenian Street.
  • C.S.I. Holy Cross Church More than 120 years old, it was originally called the Perambur Railway Church, when it was under the railway authorities. It earlier had a pre dominantly Anglo-Indian congregation though now everybody attends it. It is located on 16, Siruvalluvur Rd, Chennai.
  • St.Thomas Mount Legend has it that Thomas, an apostle of Christ, preached atop the hill here. He is said to have been killed on this 300 ft. high mount. The paintings of ‘The Holy Lady and The Child’ and ‘Our Lady of Expectations’ exhibited in this church are believed to have been done by St. Thomas. It is located near Meenambakkam.
  • St. George’s Cathedral A striking piece of architecture, the St. George’s Cathdral was built in 1815. It has a towering 45m spire and lonic columns. The highlight of this Cathedral is the graveyard just adjacent to it with its guardrail made up of war emblems of muskets, bayonets etc captured from Srirangapatnam in 1799.
  • Descanso Lying amidst the cultural and religious centre of Mylapore, this 17th century church is said to have been the place where St. Thomas took rest and also served the people.
  • Velankanni Church This church is in honour of Our Lady of Health, the Madonna of Velankanni. The devotees believe in the miraculous curative powers of the Madonna.
  • Big Mosque Hidden behind the modern buildings on Triplicane High Road, this renowned place of worship for Muslims, built in 1795, is a marvelous granite structure.
  • Thousand Lights Mosque Close to, the Anna flyover on Mount Road lays this mosque on 3 acres of land. Renovated a couple of times this century; it has two tall minarets and a separate place of worship for women.
  • Sri Guru Nanak Sat Sangh Sabha The holy place for Sikhs, Sri Guru Nanak Sat Sangh Sabha is remarkable for its serene ambience.
  • Jain Temple A striking contrast to the rock hewn temples of Tamilnadu is the Jain temple. The two-tiered, 70′ high temple is built of lime-and-soapstone and marble giving it a dazzling appearance.
  • Bah’a'i Centre A place of worship full of solemnity, sobriety and peace.
  • Horticultural Gardens Located in the heart of the city on Cathedral Rd, this 22-acre lush garden is as if a whiff of fresh air for Chennaiites.You will find rare trees, medicinal herbs and shrubs aplenty here. Plants, saplings and seeds are available for sale.
  • Nageswara Park This park at Luz corner was developed a couple of years ago with the initiative of the elected Council that took charge at Ripon Building in 1996. The walkways, fountains and garden benches have also attracted filmmakers for whom this park is a preferred shoot location. New garden light fittings are an additional attraction for visitors. The park that is open to the public on all days has a separate play area for children. The park has a well-maintained garden with varieties of trees like Lapostromea, Capsia Fistula and Tabulia and foliage trees like Pungam, Neem, Palms, Ficus Religiosa and Thespesia. Medicinal and Ornamental plants are also found here.
  • Dr Natesan Park Dr. Natesan Park, in T.Nagar, attracts hundreds of visitors everyday. Spread over 4 acres, with long walkways, fountains and garden lights, this park was opened to the public on September 13, 1950. Situated in the heart of the city, the park has a variety of trees and plants like Crotons, aralias, bougainvilleas, acalypha, ceesil peniea, pulcharima, mahogany, neem and gulmohur. It has a separate tennis court for coaching children. There is also play zone for children.
  • Sivan Park Sivan Park on P.T.Rajan Salai, K.K.Nagar has well-maintained lawns, pathways and play area for children. You can see various monument replicas, like that of the Gateway of India. There is a 15 feet high statue of Lord Siva, depicted in a posture of meditation. The statue is designed in such a way that water flows down from the head, from a height of about 15 feet, giving it a cascading effect. The park has a good collection of trees including Petophorum, Rain tree, Gulmohur and shrubs like acalyppa, creepers and ground covers. In addition, a nursery sells plants to visitors to the park.
  • Mayday Park May Day Park, originally known as Napier Park, is situated on Deputy Mayor Kabalamoorthy Road in Chintadripet. Spread over 14.5 acres, the Park is used to hold public meetings during the May Day celebrations. Even political parties and associations take out rallies from the park. May Day Park is divided into two portions. The park, proper, is on the eastern side and on the western side is a well-maintained playground used by the neighborhood children.
  • Vandalur Zoo One of the finest open-air zoos in India, this wildlife enthusiast’s delight is located 30 kms south of Chennai. Mini safaris are organized here.
  • Light House A massive tall structure situated at south end of the Marina Beach beckons the visitors in the evening and adds glory to the golden sands. All India Radio (AIR) radio broadcast station is located opposite to the lighthouse.
  • Pancha Mandapams Adjoining the Governor’s residence (Raj Bhavan) at Guindy, there are five memorials. To the father of the nation - Mahatma Gandhi, the first Indian Governor General - C Rajagopalachari, former Chief Ministers of the state - Kamaraj and Bhaktavatsalam and one to Martyrs.The Gandhi Mandapam is immediately recognisable by the temple gopuram styling of its portals. The Kamaraj memorial has a distinctive Charakha (Spinning Wheel) atop the memorial. The Rajaji memorial, with its dominating pink, is quite conspicuous. Clustered among these are the memorials to Bhaktavatsalam and the Martyrs.
  • Chennai War Cemetery The Commonwealth War Graves Commission set up the Chennai War Cemetery in 1952 as a tribute to the valiant men and women who laid down their lives in the Second World War. The Stone of Remembrance greets the visitor to the Chennai War Cemetery with the words from the Book of Ecclesiasticus ‘Their Name Liveth For Evermore’. There is the Cross of Sacrifice, set up on an octagonal base bearing a bronze sword upon its shaft. These two monuments are common to all large CWGC cemeteries. The Chennai War Cemetery honors 855 men and women of the Commonwealth forces and one Polish airman who died during the war of 1939 - 1945. It has been a kind of second burial for these armed forces personnel, who died in the line of duty at different places while serving in various units during the war. Most of the graves were brought together from civil and cantonment cemeteries in the South and East of India. There is also a memorial commemorating a merchant seaman who was buried elsewhere. The Cemetery also has three non-world war graves. There is also a Memorial to soldiers who died in the First World War 1914 - 1918. It is known as the Chennai Memorial. The Chennai Memorial has the names of all the 1,039 men who died in the First World War inscribed on it. Located at Nandambakkam, Chennai 600 089.

Tourist Spots around Chennai, India

While you are holidaying in Chennai, make sure to take some time off and visit the places around. There are ancient temple towns like Mahabalipuram and Tirupati (in Andhra Pradesh), traditional townships and villages that specialise in crafts like Kanchipuram, and golden beaches like Covelong.You will also find beach resorts and amusement parks dotting the coastline beginning from Chennai.

  • Mahabalipuram (58 kms.) Just out of Chennai, roughly 55 km away, is the world-famous town of Mahabalipuram. The Pallava dynasty of Southern India, one of the major lines of kings to rule in India after the Gupta period, made this lovely seaside village their second capital. The place blossomed under the creative forces of that time between the fifth and eighth centuries. Today, the shore temple, the largest bas-relief in the world called Arjuna’s Penance and the famous and beautiful mandapams has made this town world famous. Almost 5km north of Mamallapuram in the village of Salavankuppam, the tiger cave is a rock cut shrine dating from 7th century. Dedicated to Durga, it has a small mandapam featuring a crown of carved yali heads. Another 14 km from here lies Tirukkalikundram a pilgrim centre with a hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Covelong (48kms) Replete with historical monuments such as forts, churches, mosques, and a lovely beach, Covelong is a place where you can experience the history of Tamil Nadu as a whole. If you are in Chennai, do not miss a visit to this place. The remains of the Fort have now been converted into a luxury beach resort that offers facilities for windsurfing and swimming.
  • Kanchipuram (75 kms.) Along with Chennai and Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram forms the famous Golden Triangle of the Coromandel Coast. Almost all tourists visit Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram finds place on the global map because of the wonderful craftsmanship of the Kanchi weavers, the makers of what is perhaps the finest silk fabric in the world. This spectacular temple city is one of the seven sacred cities of India. It was, successively, capital of the kingdoms of the Pallavas, Cholas and rajas of Vijayanagar. The temples and gopurams are exquisite reminders of the beauty of Dravidian architecture, from the freshness and simplicity of the Pallavas’ 7th-century Kailasanatha Temple through to the Vijayanagar Empire’s 16th-century Ekambareshwara Temple. The latter covers nine hectares, has a 59-metre-high gopuram, a 1000-pillared hall and a sacred mango tree said to be 3500 years old. Kanchipuram is also famous for its hand-woven silk fabrics.
  • Tirupati (152km) Situated in the Chittoor district in southern Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is the abode of the legendary Lord of the Seven Hills. Tirupati is one of the most famous shrines in the country where worship of the Lord has been carried out for over thirteen centuries. Even today, Tirupati draws enormous crowds throughout the year. The main attractions are the Pratima Mandapam, with the statue of Sri Krishnadevaraya; Tulabharam, the scales upon which materials for offerings are weighed; the Tirumalanayaka Mandapam, replete with beautiful carvings; and Dhwajastambham, and others. Tirupati is situated at a distance of around 152 km from Chennai and well connected.
  • Muttukadu (16 kms) The backwaters of Muttukadu have been developed by the Tamilnadu Tourism Development Corporation to serve as a scenic picnic spot and a water sports centre. In February every year, a windsurfing regatta is organised in Muttukadu.Competitions in windsurfing and other water sports are held. Training and demonstration programmes are organized for youth.
  • Crocodile Bank (44 kms.) Not far from Mamallapuram, Romulus Whittaker runs this crocodile breeding and research centre. Here several species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are bred in captivity. The reptiles are kept in their natural habitat in open pools and can be viewed from safe proximity. This farm breeds crocodile to augment the crocodile population of the wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Vedanthangal (85 kms.) Vedanthangal is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. It is a marshy, 30 hectare park with lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. The majority of these birds can be seen between November and February. The 4variety of birds include Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Pelicans, Sandpipers, White Ibis and Cormorants, Blue winged teals and Swans.
  • V.G.P Golden Beach Resort (30km) This beach resort is popular not just with the people of the city, but also with tourists. There is an entertainment arcade for children and for adults. There are folk dance performances apart from an Art Center that sells handicrafts and articles made out of seashells. The beach is clean and ideal for sunbathing. This is a cleverly planned beach resort geared to entertain the visitor with sculptured vignettes from the past, folk dances and ethnic seafood cuisine. The V.G.P. Art Center, a part of the resort complex, sells merchandise ranging, from seashells to rural handicrafts.
  • Vandalur Spread over an area of 1,265 acres, the Anna Zoological Park at Vandalur is the largest in South Asia with a rich variety of different species of mammals, reptiles and birds. The animals roam in natural surroundings with a special enclosure for nocturnal creatures. The coast road from Chennai to Mamallapuram is dotted with beach resorts, recreational areas and artist’s communities.
  • Cholamandal Artist’s Village Located 18 km south of Chennai. Contemporary art, sculpture, batik and craft flourish in this little palm-studded sea-rimmed artists’ commune started in 1966. Artists and sculptors live and work here and also exhibit and sell their work. Its open-air auditorium is also the venue of avant-garde theatre, poetry-reading and dance recitals. It has a gallery with fine contemporary paintings and sculptures.
  • Dakshinachitra Located 12 km south of Cholamandal, a reasonably new place presented by the Chennai Crafts Foundation as a showpiece of different living styles in the South. You can admire traditional arts from Tamilnadu, Kerala, Karnataka and AndhraPradesh. Contains recreations of Brahmin, Chettinad, potters, a basket weaver’s, a silk weaver’s houses along with live representations of their craft. Similarly the Kerala section has a Syrian Christian house, a Menon house etc. Very authentic since the dwellings were actually bought from their places of origin and replanted here. There is an accompanying audio-visual presentation and a little gift shop. Very well done and definitely worth a visit.
  • Pulicat (54 km) Site of an Old Dutch settlement dating back to 1609, today, Pulicat is a picnic spot famed for its lake. There are amenities for swimming, fishing, and windsurfing. History-buffs can wander around the ancient Dutch cemetery with its well-preserved tombstones.
  • MGM Dizee World (20 km) An amusement park complete with Roller Coasters and Water Slides and Giant Catherine Wheels - fun place for kids.
  • Madurai One of the oldest towns in South India is the abode of goddess Meenakshi, the consort of Lord Sundereswarar (Shiva). Legend has it, that when a Pandya king founded the town of Madurai some thousands of years ago, Lord Shiva was present. Moreover, the nectar falling off his hair gave the town its name of Madurai or city of nectar
  • Tiruchirapalli The famous Rock Fort is precariously perched atop a massive outcrop of rock that rises abruptly out of the flat surrounding plain. Set in the middle of the town on the bank of the river Cauvery, it is visible for miles around and it. A citadel of the Chola kings in the Sangam period (2 BC to 2 AD) the Rock Fort has had a long and chequered history.
  • Thanjavur Just 58 km away lays Thanjavur, once the capital of the Chola Empire referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu”. Nearly a thousand years ago around the 11th century, Thanjavur was the capital of a powerful dynasty, the imperial Cholas whose empire extended beyond South India and Sri Lanka to the kingdoms of South-East Asia.The Chola kings used their wealth to encourage arts and craft and built innumerable temples and shrines to ornament their land.
  • Palani Palani, a pilgrim spot atop a hill dedicated to Lord Subramanium, is easily accessible.
  • Pondicherry (157km) Lying 162 km south of Chennai, this town has an imminent French influence. It is here the famous philosopher Sri Aurobindo once lived. For sight seeing, interesting places include churches, museum, beach, the Aurobindo ashram, and Auroville. Close by lies Chidambaram, an ancient Chola temple with a gilded roof, tall gopurams and a thousand pillared halls. This is the most venerated shrine of Lord Shiva represented here as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. Point Calimere wildlife sanctuary lies close by. The mangrove forests of Pichavaram, an ideal spot for boating, fishing and water sports is also nearby.
  • Rameswaram Rameswaram lies 176 km from Madurai. This conch shaped island in the Gulf of Mannar is a holy spot for Hindus. The magnificent Ramanathaswamy temple is well known for its longest corridors in the country, extending over a length of 1220 m long with its marvelous carved pillars. Those who visit here bathe in the sacred waters of Agaitheertam, a stretch of Clam Sea near the temple.
  • Kanyakumari Proceed to Kanyakumari, the land’s end of India to view the spectacular sunrise and sunset at the beach. The temple, Vivekananda Rock and Gandhi Mandap are among the places of interest.
  • Vellore (145km) Famous for Fort and Vijaynagar temple. It is also world renowned for CMC hospital-a leader in research and health care recognised as one of the finest hospitals in South India.Vellore Fort was built in 16th century but occupied by British in 1760.The small government museum inside the fort complex contains sculptures dating back to Pallava and Chola times. The Jalakanteshwara Temple is a gem of Vijaynagar architecture built about 1566.Within the temple; the pillared mandapam is famous for yali and other mythical creatures. Large statues of Ganesh grace the entrance and mandapam.

Holidays in Chennai, India

Chennai, the largest city in southern India is located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. Over the past three and a half centuries, this small fishing village has grown into a bustling metropolis. The long esplanade beside Marina Beach lined by impressive buildings remind the visitor of the long and inseparable association the city has had with the British. Notice the dominant British influences in the form of old cathedrals, buildings in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture and wide tree lined avenues. Chennai has continued to be a city that has blended the foreign influence with the traditional Tamil-Hindu culture. It continues to maintain the best of south Indian traditions.

Enjoy holidays in Chennai where you can peep into the varied aspects of traditional south Indian culture and life styles inter-mingled with the modern city, complete with its plush hotels and restaurants offering a range of continental and typical, south Indian cuisine and long and uncrowded stretches of beaches. Attend a performance of traditional dance at the Kalakshetra Arts Village or numerous dance and music recitals held every month in the city. It is the center of the Tamil film industry - the slickest in the country. Hang around the film studios and watch the action. Chennai leads the rest of the country when it comes to the retail experience with some of the swankiest and largest retail stores setting up shop here first. These stores sell western and ethnic wear. For traditional arts and crafts visit Cottage Emporium, Poompuhar Emporium and Victoria Technical Institute all of which are at Anna Salai. You may pick up some of exquisite souvenirs in silver, copper, bronzed and wood, available here. You may shop for traditional bell metal items, bronze icons, and stone sculpture, as well as other crafts of the southern region at the local shops of Chennai. Besides these, the city of Chennai is famous for the beautiful Kancheepuram hand woven silk sarees. These sarees are renowned for the temple borders and rich zari (gold thread) pallavas. Detailed traditional motifs and bright colours with contrasting borders make these sarees delightful. For exotic Kanjeevaram silk sarees Nalli’s Rasi and Kumaran silks at T Nagar are a delight. Comb lanes and bylanes of Pondy Bazaar and bargain hard. Even the jewelry made from uncut precious stones make excellent gift items. A shopping spree will complete your holidays in Chennai. Get started with your holiday down in the sizzling south with Chennai as the ultimate holiday destination.

Best Holiday Ideas for Chennai, India

Chennai the cultural capital of South India is a right place to be in, if you want to relax as well as enjoy your holiday. This city is a gateway to South India where people on their way to other tourist places stop and enjoy the sights of Chennai before moving on to tour South India. It is a starting point for tours to all the other destinations in South India and is well connected to other big cities.

  • We offer some of the best holiday ideas for Chennai. Go for sightseeing tour of Chennai. Some of the highlights are a visit to the National Art Gallery and Museum, which house some beautiful temple friezes and South Indian bronzes, the Cathedral of San Thome, the Mylapore Temple, and St Mary’s Church.
  • Apart from tourist attractions within Chennai there are some great places around the city that you’ll enjoy seeing. If you are a wildlife lover, Chennai has sanctuaries and reserved forests for you. Visit Vedanthangal one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. It is a marshy, 30 hectare park with lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. The majority of these birds can be seen between November and February. The variety of birds include Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Pelicans, Sandpipers, White Ibis and Cormorants, Blue winged teals and Swans. Spread over an area of 1,265 acres, the Anna Zoological Park at Vandalur is the largest in South Asia with a rich variety of different species of mammals, reptiles and birds. The animals roam in natural surroundings with a special enclosure for nocturnal creatures. Mini safaris can be arranged here. The Crocodile Bank is located 44 kms from Chennai where Romulus Whittaker runs this crocodile breeding and research centre. Here several species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are bred in captivity. The reptiles are kept in their natural habitat in open pools and can be viewed from safe proximity.
  • For nature and beauty lovers we have many picturesque locations like lakes, waterfalls and picnic spots. There are some spots where you can go trekking and rock climbing. Explore the backwaters of Muttukadu, a scenic picnic spot and a water sports center. In February every year, a windsurfing regatta is organised in Muttukadu. Competitions in windsurfing and other water sports are held. The site of an Old Dutch settlement dating back to 1609, today, Pulicat is a picnic spot famous for its lake. There are amenities for swimming, fishing, and windsurfing. History-buffs can wander around the ancient Dutch cemetery with its well-preserved tombstones. For children who are fond of amusement parks, Chennai has a plethora of amusement parks dotting the coastline. Kishkinta is India’s No.1 Theme Park at Tambaram. Take a ride in hi-tech ones like space shuttle, wave pool, white water and Kiddies Kingdom. Little Folks is located 46 Kms towards Mahabalipuram. It is a great amusement complex for children with a Giant-Piano, Toy Train, Rainbow Fountain, Slide-into-pool, Cartoon show and Paddle-Pool. MGM “Drizzle World” Beach Resort is 24 kms towards Mahabalipuram, (Near Muttukadu). It has unique water sports. Prime Time extravagant indoor amusement park is located at Annanagar. It is packed with bumper car rides, play pens and all sorts of new games especially for children. Dash ‘N Splash is 30 kms from Central Station. It is South India’s exclusive water park. Go for the wave spiral and free fall slides and flumes from height of 12ft to 35ft.
  • A popular beach resort and amusement park filled with children’s games, parks and seaside restaurant, VGP Golden Beach is 30 kms from Chennai. Chennai has finest beaches to offer for tourists. Covelong is a nice beach between Chennai (Chennai) and Mahabalipuram and a small charming fishing settlement. Taj Group of Hotels runs the Fisherman’s Cove Resort with rooms in the main buildings and cottages and the beautiful sandy beach is an hour’s drive from Chennai city or from the airport. The famous Marina Beach the pride of Chennai is the second longest beach in the world with a stretch of 4.5 kms (2.5 miles) and has a wide sandy foreshore. You can see the statues of heroes from Tamil culture to samadhis of great leaders like Anna and MGR here. Walk along the Marina in the evening to cool off and eat crispy sundal and murukku. An aquarium is also located on the Marina Beach. Watching the sunset and sunrise from the beach is a fascinating experience. Elliot’s Beach is spread along the coast down south from Marina. It is also the night beach for Chennai youth. This beach is comparatively quieter and an ideal place to go sea bathing. It is located near Besant Nagar. At the end of this beach are the Velankanni church and the Ashtalakshmi temple. Good roads, pavements, illuminated sands, makes a visit to this beach a real pleasure.
  • For the lovers of ancient history and architecture, Mamallapuram is a right place to be in. Mamallapuram is a quiet hamlet in the district of Chengalpet in Tamil Nadu. Also known as Mahabalipuram (legend has it that Lord Vishnu vanquished the giant Mahabali here), Mallapuram and Mahamalaipuram, is 58 kms from Chennai and 72 kms from Pondicherry. The temples of Mamallapuram, built largely during the reigns of Narasimhavarman and his successor Rajasimhavarman, displays the movement from rock-cut architecture to structural building. The mandapas or pavilions and the rathas or shrines shaped as temple chariots are hewn from the granite rock face, while the famed Shore Temple, erected half a century later, is built from dressed stone. Here you will also see many sculptures and temples of typical South Indian architectural design the most famous being the Five Rathas a group of monolithic monuments and animal figures carved out of solid rock and the huge frescos, “The Penance of Bhagirath”. Of the secular architecture at Mamallapuram, the most fascinating is its elaborate water system.
  • Kanchipuram and Tirupati are the holy cities with number of famous temples for devotees. Some of the important temples are Vaikunthaperumal Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple and Ekambareswarar Temple. You can take a break and visit Pondicherry where French influence still so immensely visible in this quiet little town. For sight seeing, interesting places include churches, museum, beach, the Aurobindo ashram, and Auroville. Close by lies Chidambaram, an ancient Chola temple with a gilded roof, tall gopurams and a thousand pillared halls. This is the most venerated shrine of Lord Shiva represented here as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. Point Calimere wildlife sanctuary lies close by. The mangrove forests of Pichavaram, an ideal spot for boating, fishing and water sports is also nearby.
  • Visit Tanjavur the city of temples. The main attraction of the city is the Brihadeeshwara temple built by Raja Raja, the Greatest of the Chola kings who ruled from 985 to 1014 AD. You can also visit Tiruchirapalli - also called Trichy -the town and its famous Rock fort temple built by the Nayaks-builders of Madurai an adjacent city. The Rock Fort Temple, a spectacular monument perched on a rocky outcrop rises abruptly from the plain to tower over the old city. Go up by the flight of steep steps cut into the rock and from its summit; you will get a fantastic view of the town and other landmarks. Finally at the top of the hill, is the Ucchi Pillayar Koil - a Ganesh Temple, offering a commanding view of the city. The temple city of Madurai also holds special attraction for the visitors. The primary interest is the Meenakshi Temple, where Dravidian temple architecture may be considered to be at its best. Its Hall of a Thousand Pillars is fabulous and is filled with worshippers at all hours of the day. Also, visit the Tirumal Nayak’s Palace, a highly decorative monument.

Honeymoon in Chennai, India

Honeymoon - The most cherished and waited moment of your married life. The excitement, joy, and special feeling of being with the love of life all alone in the lap of nature are magical. To make this moment of your life more fulsome and to add an extra bit of spice, Chennai is a right destination for you and your love. Amongst the finest beaches in India, Chennai offers Marina beach, Elliot’s beach and Covelong with their natural beauty and best infrastructure for holiday travelers like you. Enjoy romantic holidays without any disturbance; water sports facilities, top of the line transportation, gracious accommodation, out of the world cuisine, and amazing displays of marine life will make your honeymoon in Chennai truly memorable.

Chennai the gateway to the South offers fantastic places of tourist attraction. The temples of Mamallapuram lend an exotic air to your honeymoon. The city is a blend of modernity with tradition. It delights visitors with its charm and simple beauty. We understand your unique requirements while you are celebrating the most personal moments of your life with the love of your life. To make your honeymoon an unforgettable and most enduring moment of your life, we offer you great hotel and tour packages in Chennai. Come discover the magic of Chennai a honeymoon in Chennai and cherish the memories forever.

Beaches in Chennai, India

Some of the well-known beaches in Chennai are

  • Marina Beach The famous Marina Beach the pride of Chennai is second longest beach in the world with a stretch of 4.5 kms (2.5 miles) and has a wide sandy foreshore. You can see the statues of heroes from Tamil culture to samadhis of great leaders like Anna and MGR here. Walk along the Marina in the evening to cool off and eat crispy sundal and murukku. An aquarium is also located on the Marina Beach. Watching sunset and sunrise from the beach is a fascinating experience.
  • Elliot’s Beach Elliot’s Beach is spread along the coast down south from Marina. It is also the night beach for Chennai youth. This beach is comparatively quieter and an ideal place to go sea bathing. It is located near Besant Nagar. At the end of this beach are the Velankanni church and the Ashtalakshmi temple. Good roads, pavements, illuminated sands, makes a visit to this beach a real pleasure.
  • Covelong Beach Now a luxury beach resort. This beach has a fort built by the Nawab of Carnatic. It was here that the French General Laboudonnais landed his troops in 1746. Later it was taken by Robert Clive in 1752 and destroyed. The Beach is separated from the mainland by the canal running from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. Taj Group of Hotels runs the Fisherman’s Cove Resort with rooms in the main buildings and cottages and the sandy beach here. It is located on the way to Mahabalipuram.

Pilgrimage Travel in Chennai, India

Chennai has number of temples, Mosques and Churches for those who have religious bent of mind. Some of these temples and Churches are very old and equally beautiful.

  • Churches
    • San Thome Cathedral The San Thome Cathedral located at the Southern end of Marina Beach is one of Chennai’s historic landmarks. Named after the apostle of Christ, St. Thomas, Cathedral is rebuilt in Neo -Gothic style in 1833.
    • St.Mary’s Church The first English church built in India in the late 17th century. Highlights of the Church are the altarpiece and a huge painting of ‘The Last Supper’ done a la Raphael.
    • St.Thomas Mount A place of pilgrimage, St.Thomas Mount is located near Meenambakkam. The paintings of “The Holy Lady and The Child” in the church and “Our Lady of Expectations” are widely believed to have been painted by St.Thomas himself.
    • Descanso Located in Mylapore. Built in 17th century, it is believed that this is the site where St.Thomas, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ used to rest and indulge in acts of charity.
    • Velankanni Church This church is in honour of Our Lady of Health, the Madonna of Velankanni. Other churches that would be of great interest are the Little Mount, the Armenian Church and St.George’s Cathedral
    • St.Andrew’s Church This Church was completed in 1821 built in classical style. Popularly referred, as ‘The Kirk’ it is one of the finest specimens of Georgian architecture in Asia. Consecrated in 1821, it is part of the Church of South India and was erected for the Scottish Community in Chennai. The dome is fifty-one and half feet in diameter on the inside supported by sixteen fluted, Corinthian columns. This dome was constructed using the ‘Syrian masonry’ technique. It is believed to be one of the few in the world to be supported by columns of this height. The mahogany woodwork and the chequered black and white marble floor add to the elegance of this church.
    • Christ the King Church Commissioned by French clergymen this church was designed and built by an Indian mason in 1933. It is a fine example of gothic architecture standing majestically in the middle of Loyola College campus. It has pointed arches, ribbed vaults, rose windows, three-aisled nave and flying buttresses. Covering an area of 150 feet by 60 feet, with stained glass windows, this church is a captivating sight, inside as well as outside. The spire is 157 feet high and has a stairway leading to the top, where a cross stands.
  • Sri Guru Nanak Sat Sangh Sabha Sri Guru Nanak Sat Sangh Sabha at T.Nagar is a place of remarkable serenity and tranquility.
  • Jain Temple Located in T.Nagar. The two-tiered, 70′ high temple is built of lime-and- soapstone and marble giving it a dazzling appearance.
  • Big Mosque Built in 1795 of gray granite, this mosque is surely one of the most attractive ones in South. The Wallajah family built it in 1795 in memory of the Nawab. Located at Walajah Road
  • Thousand Lights Mosque Built in mid-1800 in the land donated by Nawab Wallajah, this mosque last rebuilt in 1981, has two 64′ tall minarets. The mosque also houses a library, a burial ground and guesthouses. It is called the Thousand Lights Mosque because of the legend that over one thousand lamps had to be used to light up the Assembly Hall that stood at this same spot.This multi-domed mosque, with sayings from the Holy Koran painted on its walls, comes alive during the annual Moharram

Temples of Chennai

  • Shri Parathasarathy Temple Located at Triplicane High Road is Sri Prthasarathy Temple. This Hindu Temple, devoted to Lord Krishna, was built in the 8th Century by Pallava King and has been ornately renovated since. It is one of the oldest surviving temples in Chennai.
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple This Lord Shiva temple is little more that 350 years old, is considered by Hindus to be one of the most sacred sites in Southern Part of India. It displays the architectural elements of gopurams, mandapams and a tank found in the famous temples.
  • Temples of Mamallapuram
    • Shore Temple This beautiful temple represents final phase of Pallava art.it was originally constructed in 7th century it was later rebuilt by Narsimha Burman 11 .The temple contains shrines for Lord Shiva.Facing east and west the original linga captured the sunrise andsunset. A third shrine is dedicated to the reclining Visnu.The temple is listed in World Heritage Sites.Ganesh Ratha is a rock-cut Dravidian temple resembling a chariot.It is a shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesh.Trimurti Cave Temple honors the Hindu Trinity -Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva with a separate section dedicated to each deity.
  • Temples of Kanchipuram
    • Vaikunthaperumal Temple This important temple was built by the Pallava King Nandivarman Pallavalmalla in the 7th Century. Lord Vishnu is depicted in sitting reclining and standing poses.
    • Kamakshi Amman Temple Famous for ornate gold-plated gopuram, this temple was built by the Chola Kings in the 14th century. Dedicated to the goddess Parvati, it is one of the three holy places of worship in India.
    • Ekambareswarar Temple This ancient temple of Kancheepuram is surrounded by a huge stonewall built in the early 16th Century during the days of the Vijaynagar Empire. Dedicated to Lord Siva, the temple is the epitome of Dravidian temple architecture.
    • Kailasanatha Temple Constructed from sand stone in the 8th century by King Rajasimha and completed by his son, Mahendram, this temple is noted for its intricate and prolific sculptures. Fifty-eight smaller shrines surround the main shrine.
    • VaradarajaswamyTemple Also known as the Devarajaswamy Temple, this massive structure is noted for its shine tops a rock in the shape of an elephant. The temple has two high towers, one in the east and the other in the west. The 1000 pillared hall has interesting and highly detailed sculptures.