Quick Summary:

  • The middle of the artistic and cultural heart of India, Chennai is considered to be a gateway city and the cultural capital of South India.
  • This area was at one time known as Madras and is often counted as one of the world’s best cities to visit for culture and food among other reasons.
  • Chennai stands out in the country as a destination for tourists just by its number of architectural, cultural, and historical sites.
  • The bustling city has also become a center for hospitality, fashion, and classic southern Indian fare.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Arignar Anna Zoological Park-Vandalur Zoo ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Kids & Family
Arignar Anna Zoological Park-Vandalur Zoo | What to See in Chennai, India
© Iordanis Pallikaras/stock.adobe.com

2. Government Museum, Egmore ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Museums & Culture
Government Museum, Egmore | What to See in Chennai, India
© matiplanas/stock.adobe.com

3. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church | What to See in Chennai, India
© narayankumar/stock.adobe.com

4. Kapaleeswarar Temple

Kapaleeswarar Temple | What to See in Chennai, India
© PHOTO JUNCTION/stock.adobe.com

5. Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Santhome Cathedral Basilica | What to See in Chennai, India
© Arvind Balaraman/stock.adobe.com

6. Madras Crocodile Bank Trust

Madras Crocodile Bank Trust | What to See in Chennai, India
© karthikeyan/stock.adobe.com

7. Birla Planetarium

Category: Kids & Family
Birla Planetarium | What to See in Chennai, India
© PAVEL GERASIMENKO/stock.adobe.com

8. Theosophical Society

Theosophical Society | What to See in Chennai, India
© Manivannan T/stock.adobe.com

9. Anna Centenary Library

Category: Kids & Family
Anna Centenary Library | What to See in Chennai, India
© Anna Centenary Library

10. Heritage District

Heritage District | What to See in Chennai, India
© Aniruddha/stock.adobe.com

11. Dakshin Chitra

Dakshin Chitra | What to See in Chennai, India
© Dakshin Chitra

12. Wild Garden, Amethyst Cafe

Category: Activities
Wild Garden, Amethyst Cafe | What to See in Chennai, India
© Wild Garden, Amethyst Café

13. Chamiers Cafe

Category: Food & Drink
Chamiers Cafe | What to See in Chennai, India
© Chamiers Café

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