Treat Yourself To The 15 Best Things To Do In Chennai

Are you planning a trip to Chennai and wondering about the activities to be included in your trip to Chennai? Whether you are looking for a serene break or adrenaline-pumping water activities,  the best things to do in Chennai make it an ideal getaway with family or friends. Chennai is famous for its pristine beaches, historic temples, alluring sunrise and sunset views, ancient structures, and numerous adventure activities. Visiting numerous places allows you to uncover the rich history, vibrant culture, and heritage of the land. Chennai is a haven for art lovers, history buffs, art enthusiasts, and adventurists alike, making it one of the best tourist places in the world.

Best Things To Do In Chennai

From a plethora of the best things to do in Chennai, here is a curated listicle that will help you select the best activities and provide insights into the timings, ticket prices, and prominent things to do. 

1. Witness A Captivating Sunrise At Elliot’s Beach

Experience euphoria while you catch the arresting sunrise and sunset at Elliot’s Beach is one of the best things to do here. Located in Besant Nagar, Edward Elliot’s Beach or Elliot’s Beach is home to stunning temples, ancient churches, and historic monuments. Taking a relaxing morning stroll along the serene beach is the best way to rejuvenate yourself and start your day on a high note. The striking shoreline is the perfect place to take a stroll, as the road is filled with local joints serving local delicacies, which makes it one of the ideal fun things to do in Chennai.

Location: 6th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600090, India.

Prominent Things To Do: Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health or Annai Vailankanni Church, Ashtalakshmi Temple, and Karl Schmidt Memorial. 

Best Time to Visit: November to February.

Elliot’s Beach Entry Fees: Free

Elliot’s Beach Timings: All day

2. Engage In Parasailing At Marina Beach

Marina Beach is one of those tourist places that impeccably showcases Chennai’s true essence, character, and soul. Situated on the Bay of Bengal, along the ravishing Coromandel Coast, Marina Beach stretches to a length of 13 km, attracting thousands of tourists worldwide. 

Chennai is famous for Marina Beach, the longest beach in India and the second-longest urban beach in the world. Rejoice in the arresting views of the sunrise and sunset and no wonder the beach is the preferred destination for locals and tourists alike. Numerous ancient structures along the beach allow you to take a sneak peek into the history and appreciate the stunning architecture. Engaging in parasailing, allows you to capture the arresting panoramic view of Chennai. 

Location: Coromandel Coast, Chennai

Best Time to Visit: October to February.

Marina Beach Entry Fees: Free

Parasailing Ticket prices: From INR 2500 approximately. 

Parasailing At Marina Beach Timings: From 9:30 PM to 6 PM.

If you are looking for hassle-free travel, book your Private Custom Tour: Chennai Sightseeing with Guide here.

3. Go On A Safari At Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Positioned at the heart of the city, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a flourishing oasis of enchantment and wonder, which makes it to the top of the list of fun things to do with friends and family. A true haven for animal enthusiasts and keen nature lovers, the Vandalur Zoo offers an unmatched opportunity to unfurl the numerous species of the animal kingdom.

The park is highly motivated and dedicated to conserving rare and endangered species for upcoming generations. Spreading over 602 hectares, the park is one of the largest zoos in Southeast Asia, which houses more than 138 species of flora and fauna. The lion safari at the zoo allows you to explore various animal species and capture exotic bird species. 

Arignar Anna Zoological Park Entry Fee:

Indian Adults: INR 50 per person

Safari for Adults: INR 150 per person

Children(5 years-12 years): INR 50 per person

Children(5 years-12 years): INR 20 per person

Students: INR 20 per person

Arignar Anna Zoological Park Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tuesdays- Closed)

Prominent Things To Do: Butterfly house, Reptile house or Serpentarium, Sanctuary aviaries, engage in Lion Safari, Elephant Safari, Deer Park and Zoo Museum

Best Time To Visit: October to February.

4. Gaze At The Mesmerizing Structures At Mahabalipuram

Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram is a historically rich town located on a stretch of land, between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake. Numerous stunning structures in Mahabalipuram impeccably portray the stunning architectural finesse of the Pallava dynasty, making it one of the best places to visit in Chennai. Declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site, the architectural marvels are the eye-witness of the gruesome wars and proudly stand today to tell the tales of grit, valor, glory, and royalty. 

Mahabalipuram is a dream destination for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and people keen on ancient Traditional Tamilian art. Go on a shopping spree on the local streets selling souvenirs, like handicrafts, artistic treasures, and stone sculptures, which allow you to relive the priceless moments of the trip to Chennai.

Prominent Things To Do: Uncover the Shore Temple, Krishna’s Butter Ball, Arjuna’s Penance, Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple, Krishna Cave Temple, and Tiger Caves.

Best Time to Visit: November to February.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM 

Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days.

Book your dream Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai with Guide, Lunch, Entrances tour package here.

5. Admire The Stunning Architecture Of The Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Tracing its roots to the 7th Century, the  Kapaleeshwarar temple is one of the most revered places, which attracts history buffs and architecture enthusiasts around the world. The  Kapaleeshwarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshiped in the form of a Mylai or peahen. The temple is the beacon of intricate Dravidian architecture perfectly depicting the finesse of the ancient era, attracting art lovers worldwide. 

Location: 234, Ramakrishna Mutt Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

Prominent Things To Do: Explore the idols of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal. Explore the delicately designed gopurams and the frescoes. Visit during special occasions like the Arubathimoovar festival, etc.  Witness daily morning rituals. Savor the religious offerings, known as Puliyodharai, during the evening.

Kapaleeswarar Temple Timings: 5:00 AM- 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM

Best Time To Visit: October to February

Kapaleeshwarar Temple Entry Fee: Free

6. Scuba Diving At Covelong Beach

As the temperatures are on the rise, taking a dip in the Chennai waters is a perfect escape from the city heat. If you are a keen adventure enthusiast and willing to engage in some exhilarating water activities, scuba diving perfectly fits the bill for the fun things to do in Chennai. Covelong Beach is the ideal destination which is an amalgamation of arresting landscapes and perfect diving spots to explore underwater life.

Where: Some of the best places that offer the ultimate scuba diving experience are Salty Bone Divers, Chennai Institute Of Diving, Dive Chennai, Chennai Dive Paradise and DriveIndia Chennai.

Scuba Diving Cost: From INR 5,500 per person approximately.

7. Enjoy Paintball Shooting With Buddies

One of the best things to do with friends is to engage in an energetic paintball session. If you and your buddies are fond of war and shooting games, then get your combat suits on and load your weapons to shoot paint balls on your opposing gang. Engaging in a paintball session is one the coolest things to do with friends, allowing you to put your shooting skills to the test.

Where: The Wild Tribe Ranch, Esthell Adventure Park, and Planet Adventure Paintball.

Ticket Cost for Paintball Sessions:

Session Timings: From INR 400 per person approximately.

Monday-Thursday: 10:00 AM– 8:30 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Weekend: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

8. Go Bird Sighting At Pulicat Lake

Known as one of the fun things to do in Chennai, Pulicat Lake is home to numerous bird species that call it home, attracting tourists worldwide. The lake is a haven for bird enthusiasts, as you can catch glimpses of migratory birds that travel from various corners of the world. Every year, from October to March, the banks of the lake bustle with migratory birds like flamingos, cranes, ducks, painted storks, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, and cranes, etc.

Prominent Things To Do: Pulicat Lake, Pulicat Bird Sanctuary and Dutch Cemetery. Bird watching, and Flamingo Festival.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Ideal Trip duration: A day tour.

9. Explore The Outer Space At The Birla Planetarium

Satiate your curiosity and have all your queries about space answered at one of the largest museums in India, the Birla Planetarium. Located in the Periyar Science and Technology Center campus, the planetarium houses numerous exhibits about space that will keep you engaged for hours. Taking a sneak into space, engaging in various space programs, and exploring other exhibits make it one of the fun things to di with friends and family.

Location: Gandhi Mandapam Road, Duraisamy Nagar, Kotturpuram, Chennai – 600025

Prominent Things To Do: DRDO Pavilion, Witness various shows like comets, Moon, shooting meteoroids, stellar cycle, deep sky, Solar System, sky and seasons, etc. Watching 3D shows, Exploring exhibits, Checking the Science on a Sphere program, and Observing the dazzling night sky.

Birla Planetarium Chennai Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM( Everyday)

Birla Planetarium Chennai Entry Fee: 

Adults: INR 30 per person

Children Less than 12 years: INR 15 per person

Periyar Science and Technology Center Entry Fee

• Periyar Science and Technology Center Entry fee: Adults: INR 30 per person
• Children Below 12 years: INR 15 per person

Birla Planetarium 3D Science Movie Entry Fee

• Adults: INR 20 per person
• Children Below 12 years: INR 20 per person

Package Fee (Science Centre, Planetarium, 3D Science Movie & Science Park)

• Adults: INR 60 per person
• Children Below 12 years: INR 30 per person

Book Your Chennai Airport Transfers: Budget Sedan and SUV Cabs here.

10. Explore Stunning Art Works At The National Art Gallery

Built in the year 1907 the National Art Gallery was built by T. Namberumal Chetty is one of the oldest museums in Chennai. Proudly adorning the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, which is one of the fun things to do in Chennai. Strolling around the gallery allows you to explore the Mughal Miniature Paintings from the late 17th-18th century,  Rajput paintings, Kangra Paintings, Tanjore paintings from the 19th century AD, and art pieces by the South Indian School of Arts. There are various sections of the gallery that exhibit mesmerizing artworks of renowned artists like Jamini Roy, D.P Roy Chowdhury, Adhimoolam, K.C.S. Panicker, Nandlal Bose, and Vaidhyanathan to name a few of the list.

Location: 3794+RF9, Pantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008

Prominent Things To Do: Visual Storage Facility, Explore paintings of Raja Ravi Verma. Visit the Rock and Cave Art Gallery.

National Art Gallery Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Friday And National Holidays: Closed

National Art Gallery Entry Fee: Adults: INR 15 per person

Children: INR 10 per person

Best Time To Visit: November to February.

11. Go Rock Climbing At FitRock Arena

Treating yourself to an exhilarating rock climbing session is one of the best things to do with your friends. The best possible alternative to gyms is engaging in rock climbing sessions as it is the dire test of your core to keep yourself fit. The icing on the cake is that you don’t need to worry about the blistering sun or torrential rains, as the rock climbing activity is an indoor activity. Do not be fooled by it being an indoor activity, FitRock Arena will test you to the limit, which is a perfect strength-related activity. 

Location: FitRock Arena, 73, Venkatakrishna Rd, Perumal Koil Thottam, Ramakrishna Nagar, Raja Annamalai Puram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028
Rock Climbing Entrance Fee: INR 700 for a 2-hour session approximately.

12. Have A Fun Day At MGM Dizzee World

Are you looking for a destination, where you can have a fun-filled day with your family and friends? Then look no further, MGM Dizzee World is a perfect destination. One of the oldest and largest amusement parks in India, MGM Dizzee World will satiate your adventurous soul. Engaging in thrilling and engaging rides is ideal for all ages.

Location: MGM Dizzee World, 1/74, SH 49, Muttukadu, Tamil Nadu 600112

MGM Dizzee Entrance Fee: Children: INR 549 per child, Adults: INR 699 per person
MGM Dizzee World Timings: Weekdays: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Weekends: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM

13. Walk Back In Time At The Government Museum

Are you in the mood to get insights into the enriching bygone era? Take a tour of the Government Museum, which allows you to uncover the rich tales of the ancient era. Established in 1851, the Government Museum is the second oldest museum in India, which is known for its collection of archeological and numismatics artifacts. Taking a stroll through the 46 sections at the museums allows you to get insights into various fields like zoology, natural history, sculptures and Amravati paintings to name a few of the list.

Location: Government Maternity Hospital, Pantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008

Prominent Things To Do: Explore the Museum Theatre, Connemara Public Library, Children’s Museum

Government Museum Timings: Everyday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM 

Government Museum Ticket Prices:

Students: INR 5 

Children (Below 12 years): INR 10

Adults: INR15 per person

14. Enjoy Your Day At The VGP Marine Kingdom

Previously known as VGP Golden Beach Resort, VGP Universal Kingdom is the go-to destination for having a relaxing and fun-filled day with family and friends. Located on the beachfront, the happening park comprises various rides that will satiate your thrill and adventure, which is perfect for all ages. Ranked among the top 100 Theme Parks in the world, visiting the park is one of the fun things to do while here.

Location: SH 49, Injambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600115

Prominent Things To Do: Explore the various sections like Deep Sea, Rain Forest, Gorge, Coastal, and Mangrove Forest. VR Zone, Scuba Diving, and Live Feeding Show.

VGP Marine Kingdom Entry Tickets: 

General Entry Fee( Above 125 cms): INR 695 per person

Junior Entry Fee(90 cms to 125 cms): INR 595 per person

Combo Ticket

Junior Entry Fee(90 cms to 125 cms): INR 1190

General Entry Fee( Above 125 cms): INR 1370

VGP Marine Kingdom Timings: 

Weekdays: 9:30 AM- 7:30 PM

Weekends: 9:00 AM-8:00 PM

15. Feast On Sumptuous Delicacies

The city of Chennai is not only renowned for its rich history, culture, hair-raising outdoor activities, picturesque landscapes, and alluring tourist destinations but also its sumptuous traditional cuisines. Indulging in some regional and international cuisines to suit your palate, allows you to curb the tiredness after a day-long tour. The day is incomplete without indulging in sumptuous cuisines at some of the best restaurants are:

• The Wharf by Radisson Blu– Radisson Blu Temple Bay, 57, E Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Chennai.
• Sea Crest Restaurant: 1/74, SH 49, Muttukadu, Chennai
• Surf Turf: 10, Pearl Beach, Ansari Nagar, Kovalam, Chennai
• Taj Fisherman Cove:  Vivanta by Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Covelong Beach, Off East Coast Road (ECR), Kovalam, Chennai.
• Mash Resto Café: T 54 B, 1st Floor, Elliots Beach Road, Besant Nagar, Chennai.
• Boats Beach Restobar: 17, 5th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai.

Also Read: 10 Ideal Tourist Places Near Chennai Within 100 kms

Concluding Words

If you are planning to spend at least a few days in Chennai, the above-mentioned best things to do in Chennai are the ones you shouldn’t miss. Do let us know which of the aforementioned listicles of best things to do in Chennai made it to the top of your list and etched a mark in your hearts forever.

FAQs