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Chennai (Madras)

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Things to do in Chennai (Madras)

Traveler recommended attractions
Rating Name
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Ollie #1 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 91 reviews
Attraction type  Movie Theaters
Distance  0.8 miles from city center
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Ollie #2 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 62 reviews
This ancient shrine to Shiva is centrally located and among the area’s most popular landmarks.
Attraction type  Architectural Buildings; Religious Sites
Distance  2.1 miles from city center
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As featured in 3 days in Chennai and 1 other guide
Ollie #3 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 47 reviews
Owner description: Probably the most magnificent and prominent reminder of Chennai's colonial lineage, the San Thome Church bears a colossal amount of history since A.D....... more » Owner description: Probably the most magnificent and prominent reminder of Chennai's colonial lineage, the San Thome Church bears a colossal amount of history since A.D. 52, the year when St. Thomas traveled to India, though the Roman Catholic basilica was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. It was then rebuilt by the British in 1893. The imposing structure reaches a height of 155 feet and emanates peace and architectural splendor with its tall spires over the tomb of the saint. The sea makes a wonderful backdrop to the pristine white structure. The San Thome Church is considered one of the pilgrimages for people around the world. « less
Attraction type  Architectural Buildings; Religious Sites
Distance  2.8 miles from city center
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As featured in 3 days in Chennai
Ollie #4 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
5 of 5 stars 10 reviews
Owner description: Now this is what every city needs — a thorough orientation of the history of the key places, all rolled into one engaging story. Story Trails does a...... more » Owner description: Now this is what every city needs — a thorough orientation of the history of the key places, all rolled into one engaging story. Story Trails does a great job of meandering through busy markets, narrow streets and a network of lanes, immersing you in the charming nuances and anecdotes about places in Chennai. There are about nine trails to explore, the favorite being the Bazaar Trail for its energy and delightful chaos. Just the thing to do for a fun, non-intimidating first tryst with the city. Opt for the morning walks because it gets pretty hot during the day. Highly recommended for experiencing the local flavor of Chennai. « less
Attraction type  Amusement/ Theme Parks
Distance  1.5 miles from city center
Ollie #5 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 17 reviews
Attraction type  Movie Theaters; Game/ Entertainment Centers
Ollie #6 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
5 of 5 stars 5 reviews
Attraction type  Religious Sites
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Ollie #7 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 11 reviews
The present temple, dedicated only recently in a joyous three-day ceremony, represents three hundred years of faith and devotion.
Attraction type  Religious Sites
Distance  3.6 miles from city center
As featured in Chennai for young kids
Ollie #8 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4 of 5 stars 35 reviews
Owner description: Originally started with a more serious conservation point of view, Crocodile Bank is now the weekend spot for a fascinating day of herpetology. For...... more » Owner description: Originally started with a more serious conservation point of view, Crocodile Bank is now the weekend spot for a fascinating day of herpetology. For the kids, it’s a special treat to see large crocs spend the day languorously by the water. The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology also allows adults to volunteer and gain hands-on experience in the field. « less
Attraction type  Nature/ Wildlife Areas
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As featured in Chennai for free
Ollie #9 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 9 reviews
Owner description: An unassuming introduction to local art, the Cholamandal Village is a serene set-up, displaying works of upcoming and established artists, painters...... more » Owner description: An unassuming introduction to local art, the Cholamandal Village is a serene set-up, displaying works of upcoming and established artists, painters and sculptors from South India. It was built in 1966 and is nine kilometers from the city. The village houses an art gallery, museum and an amphitheater for theater performances. This is a residential village for the artists, so a polite reserve is appreciated. « less
Attraction type  Art Museums
Distance  0.6 miles from city center
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As featured in 3 days in Chennai and 1 other guide
Ollie #10 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4 of 5 stars 21 reviews
Owner description: If you are looking to soak in the culture of Chennai, the Mylapore Tank and Mandavali area should be at the top of your list. One of the oldest...... more » Owner description: If you are looking to soak in the culture of Chennai, the Mylapore Tank and Mandavali area should be at the top of your list. One of the oldest residential parts of Chennai, the tank is a part of the seventh century Kapaleeshwarar Temple. This is also the place where the famous Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar, was born. If you are spending a few days in Chennai, you will understand the importance of this state figure from the number of references made in signs, names of shops and statues. The quintessential travel phrase, "overwhelming sights, sounds, smells," fits perfectly in this area. The narrow streets around the temple are buzzing with activities. Flower sellers, archaic shops selling temple offering ingredients and such line the roads leading to the temple. A photographer’s dream, this place is best explored in the morning, the chosen time to pay homage at the temple. « less
Attraction type  Neighborhoods
Distance  3.6 miles from city center
Ollie #11 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 5 reviews
Attraction type  Religious Sites
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Ollie #12 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4 of 5 stars 61 reviews
Attraction type  Beaches
Distance  4.7 miles from city center
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Ollie #13 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4 of 5 stars 21 reviews
Attraction type  Amusement/ Theme Parks
Distance  15.0 miles from city center
Ollie #14 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4 of 5 stars 5 reviews
Attraction type  Neighborhoods
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As featured in Chennai for free
Ollie #15 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
3.5 of 5 stars 153 reviews
Owner description: This expansive beach is Chennai's most famous tourist attraction, though the undercurrent is too strong for all but the strongest swimmers. Look out...... more » Owner description: This expansive beach is Chennai's most famous tourist attraction, though the undercurrent is too strong for all but the strongest swimmers. Look out for the "Kannagi" statue on Marina Beach, which tells the story of the legendary character from a South Indian epic. « less
Attraction type  Beaches
Distance  2.4 miles from city center
Ollie #16 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
3.5 of 5 stars 72 reviews
Attraction type  Flea/ Street Markets; Landmarks/ Points of Interest
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Ollie #17 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
3.5 of 5 stars 19 reviews
INOX Leisure Ltd.3rd Floor, Chennai Citi Centre,10-11, Dr.Radhakrishnan Salai,Mylapore, Chennai – 600004
Attraction type  Theaters
Distance  2.2 miles from city center
Ollie #18 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4.5 of 5 stars 4 reviews
Attraction type  Religious Sites
As featured in Chennai for free
Ollie #19 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
5 of 5 stars 1 review
Owner description: A tranquil walk in the Huddleston Gardens of the Theosophical Society of India might be needed after grappling with the city din of Chennai. The...... more » Owner description: A tranquil walk in the Huddleston Gardens of the Theosophical Society of India might be needed after grappling with the city din of Chennai. The Theosophical Society is spread over 260 acres but you can certainly cover the garden, which is home to migratory birds, fruit bats, snakes, jackals, wild cats, mongooses, hares and a variety of spiders. A 450-year-old banyan tree resides in the garden with aerial roots covering 60,000 square meters. « less
Attraction type  Gardens
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Ollie #20 of 68 attractions in Chennai (Madras)
4 of 5 stars 3 reviews
Tenth century paintings, religious statues and relics occupy one building while the other contains mostly modern works.
Attraction type  Art Museums
Distance  0.8 miles from city center
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