Chennai – A City Best Experienced Through Its Living

Culture, Neighbourhoods, And People and Not Just Its Monuments

Chennai city is an emotion woven with tradition, resilience, and timeless culture. From the rhythmic chants echoing through ancient temples to the soothing waves of Marina Beach, Chennai carries the soul of South India with unmatched grace. Often called the cultural capital of India, the city proudly preserves its classical music, Bharatanatyam, Tamil literature, and Dravidian heritage while embracing the pulse of a modern metropolis.

Every street in Chennai tells a story — of devotion, art, history, and warmth. The aroma of freshly brewed filter coffee, the taste of authentic South Indian cuisine served on banana leaves, and the hospitality of its people create memories that linger forever. Whether it is the grandeur of Kapaleeshwarar Temple, the colonial charm of San Thome Basilica or the vibrant energy of its festivals and markets, Chennai offers a beautiful harmony between the ancient and the contemporary.

More than a destination, Chennai is the “Gateway to South India”, a city where culture breathes through every sunrise and tradition shine through every smile.Chennai – it is well connected by air, rail, and surface 

By Flight: Chennai International Airport is one of India’s major airports, handling a large volume of both international passengers and cargo. It serves as an important gateway for travel into the country and offers strong global connectivity. The airport has two main terminals, Domestic and International. 

Please be informed that guests arriving on domestic flights from Terminal 1 will need to walk approximately 350 meters to reach the pick-up point, while those arriving at Terminal 4 will need to walk approximately 250 meters. 

Clients arriving on international flights at Terminal 2 will need to walk approximately 200 meters to reach the pick-up point.

Transportation Service in Chennai

Ensure a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience for your guests with our extensive range of transportation options in Chennai. From individual transfers to large group movements, we offer:

• Sedan Cars
• Kia Carens
• Toyota Crysta
• Tempo Traveler (11-seater)
• Urbania Luxury Minibus (12 Seater)
• Mini Coach (21-Seater)
• Large Coach (40-Seater)

Whether for airport transfers, city tours, corporate events, conferences, or group movements, we can arrange comfortable and reliable transportation to your requirements.

For all your transportation enquiries and customized travel arrangements, please feel free to write to us. Our team will be delighted to assist you in planning seamless ground transportation for your guests.

Sightseeing Attractions in Chennai:

There are many famous sightseeing attractions in Chennai. Below are some of the key places that the guests can explore during a half day and full day sightseeing tour of the city. Chennai also serves as an ideal starting point for a wider Tamil Nadu tour covering Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thanjavur and Madurai.

Half a Day sightseeing of Chennai includes:

• San Thome Cathedral Basilica
• Kapaleeshwarar temple
• Drive past Marina Beach 

Full Day sightseeing of Chennai includes

• San Thome Cathedral Basilica
• Kapaleeshwarar temple
• Government Museum
• St. George Fort Museum
• Drive past Marina Beach

For guests who have a passion for music and dance, a morning visit to the Kalakshetra Cultural Academy can also be included in the itinerary (Prior Permission is must).

Recommended Experiences for Extended Stays in Chennai : For guests staying in Chennai for more than one night, we can incorporate a selection of unique experiences and activities that showcase the city’s rich culture, heritage and local charm.

These carefully curated experiences offer guests an opportunity to explore Chennai beyond its traditional sightseeing attractions, providing a deeper connection with the destination. From cultural encounters and culinary experiences to heritage walks, these activities add a memorable dimension to their stay. By including these experiences in the itinerary, guests can enjoy a more immersive and enriching visit, creating lasting memories of Chennai and its vibrant traditions

Please go through the detailed descriptions of the activities, including their duration. For costing details, kindly contact your designated Sales Executive or Sales Manager. They will be pleased to provide you with competitive pricing along with comprehensive information including transportation, professional guides, entrance fees and other arrangements required for a seamless guest experience.

Food Trail 

Embark on a flavourful exploration through the bustling streets of Sowcarpet, where every corner serves up a new taste and a hidden tale. During the trail, our expert will share the history and stories behind these street-smart vendors.

Timing: 15:30 hrs to 18:30 hrs 

Minimum 2 pax required & Maximum 8 pax can participate in a day   

Cooking demonstration followed by lunch / Dinner:

South India is renowned for its rich and diverse culinary heritage. As part of your journey, we will take you to the home of a local family where you can immerse yourself in an authentic gastronomic experience. Witness traditional South Indian dishes being prepared, gain insights into regional ingredients and cooking techniques and savour a delicious home-cooked lunch or dinner in a warm, welcoming setting.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours
 Lunch session starts at 11:00 hrs
Dinner session: starts at 18:30 hrs 

Cuisine: Pure Vegetarian food

Minimum 2 pax required & Maximum 5 pax

The Peacock Trail – a Cultural Walk through Mylapore

One can step into the heart of Chennai’s spiritual and cultural quarter with the Peacock Trail, a curated walking tour that brings alive the history, legends, and daily life of Mylapore, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in India. This trail is not just a sightseeing experience. It’s a journey into a living heritage. Led by engaging local storytellers, the walk takes you through centuries-old Kapaleeshwarar Temple, bustling traditional markets, age-old streets, and lesser-known shrines. The trail offers fascinating insights into Hindu mythology, Dravidian architecture, ritual practices, and colonial legacies, including a stop at the San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Mylapore, meaning “land of the peacock”, derives its name from a legend where Goddess Parvati took the form of a peahen to perform penance. This myth beautifully threads the trail, enriching the narrative with symbolic depth.

Visitors will witness:

• Rituals in action at temples
• Traditional South Indian homes and lifestyles
• Sacred tanks, sculptures, and symbolic art
• Stories connecting Gods, saints, and the ordinary lives of people

The walk typically lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours and is ideal for those looking to move beyond monuments and engage with the living traditions of Chennai.

Duration: 3 hours 

Morning session: 8:30 hrs to 11:30 hrs 
 Evening session: 16:00 hrs to 19:00 hrs

Minimum 2 pax required & Maximum 25 pax 

Important Festivals of Chennai

Music Festival 

The Chennai Music Season, popularly known as the Margazhi Music Season, is one of the world’s largest cultural festivals dedicated to Carnatic music and South Indian classical dance. Held annually during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January), the season traces its origins to the music conferences that led to the establishment of the Music Academy, Madras, in 1928. Today, more than 50 cultural organizations across Chennai present hundreds of performances featuring Carnatic vocal and instrumental music, Bharatanatyam, Harikatha and scholarly lectures. For over a month, the city comes alive with music, dance, devotion, and cultural vibrancy, particularly in areas such as Mylapore, T. Nagar, and Alwarpet.

We can arrange tickets to attend the Music Festival if you let us know at least one week in advance, or a minimum of three days before the event, subject to availability. Ticket prices are approximately INR 500 to 1500, and seating is allocated according to the ticket price. 

Aurbathimoovar Festival 

It is another Grand festival of Mylapore. This day, all the 63 idols of Nayanmar (Shaivite Saints), the idol of God Kapaleeshwarar, Goddess Karpagamabal 

Lord Ganesha, Lord Karthikeya (also known as Subramaniya), and Lord Chandikeswarar were taken to the holy parade in a decorated palanquin. Approximately the procession starts at 15:00 hrs and ends at 22:30 hrs. Devotees from various cities will gather to witness this festival. Vehicles will be restricted from accessing this area, they will be parked far away from the temple parking area, and guests must walk for approximately 1.5 Km. 

Hotels located near the airport:

Hotel Located near Chennai Trade Center  

Hotels Located near Guindy:

Hotels Located near T. Nagar:

Hotels Located in City Centre:

 Hotels located near Anna Salai (Mount Road):

Hotels located in OMR Road:

Service Apartment:

Restaurant Details 

Japanese Restaurants: 

Kuuraku Chennai   GREEN PARK HOTEL, Basement, Vadapalani, Chennai – 600026

Oyama Japanese Restaurant, 28/61, 3rd Main Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai – 600020

Nippon Japanese restaurant, AL Lakshmi Achi Building, Kavignar Bharathidasan Rd, Teynampet, Chennai – 600018

Hokkaido, 3rd Floor, TTK Road, Alwarpet, Chennai – 600018

Teppan, 1st Floor, 146, TTK Rd, above Benjarong Restaurant, Cooperative Colony, Sri Ram Nagar, Alwarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600018

Continental Restaurants 

Writer’s café 98, Peter’s Rd, Gopalapuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600086

Amethyst Continental No 239, Whites Rd, next to Corporation Bank Royapettah, Express Estate, Royapettah, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600014

The Tuscan Table Old no: 27A, New No: 60, 4th Main Rd, RA Puram, Govindaswamy Nagar, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028

Chamiers Café Old no: 27A, New No: 60, 4th Main Rd, RA Puram, Govindaswamy Nagar, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028

Chinese Restaurants

Stix     365, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Chennai – 600018

Zhouyu – A Chinese Kitchen, 37/20, Bheemanna Garden St, Alwarpet, Chennai – 600018

Kim Ling Specialty Chinese Restaurant Teja Towers, 2nd Avenue, Anna Nagar, Chennai – 600040 

Mainland China Door 5, Old 11, Cenatoph Road, Alwarpet, Chennai

Indian Food 

Dhakshin New no 552, no 135, Old, TTK Rd, Austin Nagar, Alwarpet, Chennai, 600018

The Waterfall Restaurant LV Prasad Rd, Vadapalani, Chennai – 600026

Broken Bridge Cafe Indian Restaurant Somerset Greenways, MRC Nagar, Chennai – 600028

Karaikudi South Indian Restaurant 10, Sivaswamy Street, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai

Manjal 6/9, Kasthuri Estate, 3rd St, Poes Garden, Chennai, 600086

Patti Veedu 2, Bhagirathi Ammal St, Rama Kamath Puram, T. Nagar, Chennai, 600017

Amma Chettinad Restaurant Gopathi Narayanaswami Chetty Road, 1, Giri Rd, T. Nagar, Chennai, 600017

Virudhungar Panagal Park, 77 Gopathi Narayanaswami Chetty Road, T. Nagar Chennai, 600017

Visesham Restaurant 135, Chamiers Rd, Nandanam Extension, Nandanam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600035

Savya Rasa 2/10, Gandhi Mandapam Rd, Chitra Nagar, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600085

Multi-cuisine Restaurant 

Kappa Chakka Kandhari  Multicuisine Restaurant – 10, Haddows Rd, opp. Shastri Bhavan, Thousand Lights West, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600006

Buhari – 83, Anna Salai, Border Thottam, Anna Salai, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600002

Here is the detailed description of all the sightseeing places along with opening, closing time & holidays.

San Thome Cathedral Basilica, Mylapore – where faith meets history. San Thome Basilica is one of Chennai’s most iconic landmarks, believed to be built over the tomb of Saint Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. It is among the very few churches globally with such a distinction. Beyond its religious significance, the basilica impresses visitors with its elegant Neo-Gothic architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere. Located in the heart of historic Mylapore, it can be combined with a heritage walk through one of Chennai’s oldest neighbourhoods, allowing visitors to experience the city’s unique blend of spirituality, history, and everyday local life.

Timings: 10:00 hrs to 17:00 hrs

Entrance Fee: No 

Video Camera & Still Camera Fee: Free & allowed.  

Holidays: No 

Kapaleeshwarar Temple – experience the living soul of Chennai:

Kapaleeshwarar Temple is far more than a place of worship. It is where Chennai’s traditions come alive every day. From the fragrance of fresh jasmine flowers and the sound of temple bells to colourful rituals and local devotees, the temple offers visitors an authentic glimpse into South India’s living culture. The temple forms the heart of historic Mylapore, one of Chennai’s oldest neighbourhoods. A visit here is best experienced on foot, exploring the vibrant streets lined with flower markets, traditional shops, local eateries, and age-old homes. Rather than simply admiring a monument, visitors become part of the rhythm of everyday life, making it one of Chennai’s most memorable cultural experiences.

Timings: 6:00 hrs to 12:30 hrs & 16:00 hrs to 20:30 hrs 

Video Camera Fee: Rs.50 (top view only)

Still Camera fee: Rs.25 

Holidays: No 

Dress code: A fully covered dress is recommended. Shorts and sleeveless must be avoided. 

Please note that non-Hindus are restricted from entering the inner sanctum of the temple. 

Marina Beach – where Chennai comes together. Marina Beach is best experienced not as a beach, but as the city’s largest open-air meeting place. Every evening, families, students, joggers, street food vendors, and local artists come together, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into everyday life in Chennai.

A walk along the promenade provides an opportunity to observe the city’s rhythm, enjoy local street snacks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere that makes Marina a favourite gathering place for Chennai’s residents. For travellers seeking authentic local experiences rather than just sightseeing, Marina Beach offers a memorable insight into the city’s culture and lifestyle.

Luz Church – the perfect beginning to discover Mylapore. Luz Church offers visitors a quiet and refreshing contrast to the bustling streets of Chennai. Its peaceful surroundings and timeless charm make it an ideal place to pause and appreciate the city’s rich blend of European and Indian heritage. More importantly, Luz Church serves as the gateway to historic Mylapore. From here, visitors can explore vibrant local markets, centuries-old temples, traditional homes, and hidden streets that reveal the true character of Chennai. It is the perfect starting point for travellers looking to experience the city’s culture beyond its well-known landmarks.

Timings: 8:00 hrs to 11:00 hrs & 13:00 hrs to 17:00 hrs

Entrances: No
Video Camera & Still Camera: Free 
Holidays: Nil 

Parthasarathy Temple – Witness a living tradition. Parthasarathy Temple is one of Chennai’s most vibrant places of worship, where visitors can experience South India’s living spiritual traditions through daily rituals, devotional music, and colourful ceremonies. For travellers visiting during December and January, the temple comes alive during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival. The beautifully decorated temple, devotional processions, traditional music, and the gathering of thousands of devotees create a truly immersive cultural experience that offers a rare glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s rich religious heritage. Located in the historic neighbourhood of Triplicane, the temple can also be combined with a walk through its lively streets, allowing visitors to experience the traditions and everyday life that continue to define one of Chennai’s oldest communities.

Timings: 6:00 to 12:00 hrs & 16:00 hrs to 21:00 hrs

Entrance Fee: No 

Video Camera & Still Camera Fee: Not allowed. 

Holidays: No 

Dress code: A fully covered dress is recommended. Shorts and sleeveless must be avoided. 

Please note that non-Hindus are restricted from entering the inner sanctum of the temple. 

St. George Fort Museum – where modern Chennai began:  A visit to the Fort St. George Museum offers more than a glimpse into the British colonial period. It tells the story of how Chennai evolved from a small trading settlement into one of India’s major metropolitan cities. Located within Fort St. George, the museum showcases the city’s colonial legacy through carefully preserved artefacts, military memorabilia, maps, and historical records. For travellers interested in history, politics, and architecture, it provides valuable insight into the events that shaped not only Chennai but also much of British India’s administration. The museum is best combined with a walk around the historic fort precinct, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the city’s remarkable transformation over the centuries.

Timings:  09.30 hrs to 17:00 hrs 

Entrance Fee: Foreigners: Rs. 250 (children below 15 years free) / Indian: Rs. 20 (Entry tickets are only through online payment via QR code scan). 

Video Camera Fee: Not allowed.

Still Camera Fee: Allowed with Permission at no cost and can be used without a flash.

Holidays: Friday & Government Holidays.

Government Museum: The Government Museum is one of Chennai’s cultural treasures, offering visitors an opportunity to explore thousands of years of India’s history, art, and civilisation under one roof. Its world-renowned collection of South Indian bronze sculptures, ancient artefacts, and archaeological treasures provides a fascinating insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and curious travellers, the museum offers a rewarding experience that goes beyond sightseeing. It is a perfect addition to a Chennai city tour for visitors who wish to better understand the traditions, craftsmanship, and heritage that have shaped South India.

Timings: 9:30 hrs to 16:30 hrs 

Entrance Fee: Foreigner Adult – Rs. 250 till 9 years child free, above 9 they will charge adult charges & Indians Adult – Rs. 50 

Video Camera Fee: Rs.500

Still Camera Fee: Rs.200

Holidays: Friday & National Holidays. 

Vivekananda Illam: Vivekananda Illam offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the life and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda, one of India’s most influential spiritual leaders. Through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays, the museum presents its message of universal harmony, self-discovery, and service to humanity. The peaceful setting makes it an enriching stop for travellers interested in India’s spiritual traditions and modern history. It is an ideal addition to a Chennai itinerary for those seeking a deeper understanding of the ideas that continue to inspire millions around the world.

Timings: 10.00 hrs to 12:30 hrs & 14:00 hrs to 17:00 hrs 

Entrance Fee: Rs.25 for both Indians & Foreigners 

Video Camera Fee: Rs.200 

Still Camera Fee: Rs.200

Holidays: All Mondays 

St. Mary’s Church – A Link to Chennai’s Colonial Past: Nestled within Fort St. George, St. Mary’s Church offers a fascinating glimpse into Chennai’s colonial history. As one of the oldest surviving Anglican churches in India, it has witnessed many significant events from the early days of British India. The church is home to centuries-old memorials and tombstones, each telling a story of the people who helped shape the city’s past. It is also closely associated with Elihu Yale, the British Governor of Madras, whose name later became synonymous with Yale University. A visit to St. Mary’s Church, together with Fort St. George Museum, provides travellers with a deeper understanding of Chennai’s colonial legacy and its place in world history.

Timings: 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs 

Entrance fee: No 

Video Camera Fee & Still Camera Fee: Not Allowed 

Holidays: Visitors are not allowed on Sunday due to the mass. Rest on all days, no holiday

Arignar Anna Zoological Park – A Great Choice for Families and Wildlife Enthusiasts: Located about 30 km from Chennai city centre, Arignar Anna Zoological Park is one of India’s largest zoological parks. More than just a zoo, it plays an important role in wildlife conservation, captive breeding, and the rehabilitation of rescued animals. With spacious enclosures and a wide variety of native and exotic species, the park is an enjoyable excursion for families with children, nature lovers, and travellers interested in wildlife. It can be considered as an optional half-day visit for guests with additional time in Chennai.

Timings: 9:00 hrs to 16:30 hrs

Entrance fee: Rs. 500 for foreigners (including camera fee) & Rs. 200 for Indian adults, Rs. 50 for children (5 to 12 years); free for children below 5 years 

Closed on Tuesdays 

St. Thomas Mount – A Place of Faith and Reflection: St. Thomas Mount is one of Chennai’s most important Christian pilgrimage sites and is traditionally believed to be the place where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, was martyred. The hilltop church continues to attract pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Apart from its religious significance, the mount offers a peaceful setting and panoramic views of Chennai, making it a rewarding stop for travellers interested in history, spirituality, and photography. It is often combined with visits to San Thome Basilica and Luz Church to provide a deeper insight into Chennai’s rich Christian heritage.

Timings: 10:00 to 17:30 hrs 

No entrance fee

Camera: Not allowed 

Kalakshetra – Discover India’s Classical Arts: Kalakshetra is one of India’s most respected centres for classical performing arts and an ideal place to experience the country’s rich cultural traditions. Set amidst a peaceful, tree-lined campus, it offers visitors a glimpse into the world of Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, and traditional craftsmanship. When performances are scheduled, guests can witness authentic classical dance and music presented in their purest form by talented students and artists. For travellers seeking meaningful cultural experiences beyond sightseeing, Kalakshetra offers an inspiring introduction to South India’s artistic heritage.

Visiting Hours: 

Prayer Session: 08:00 AM – 08:30 AM

Class Observation: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Monday to Friday)

Video Camera & Still Camera Fee: Not Allowed

Holidays: Saturdays, Sundays, Public / National Holidays & School Summer Holidays and during Exams 

Prior permission is a must to visit the school. 

Oriental Tour of Chennai

For guests who are not staying overnight in Chennai, we can arrange an Oriental Tour of Chennai, covering the city’s colonial landmarks and historic institutions.

• Mother’s Child Hospital – Believed to be the first maternity hospital established in India.
• Kirk Church (St. Andrew’s Church) – A beautiful Scottish church renowned for its striking blue dome and elegant interiors.
• Egmore Railway Station – One of Chennai’s finest heritage railway stations, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.
• Government College of Fine Arts – One of India’s oldest art institutions, nurturing generations of renowned artists.
• Ripon Building – Chennai’s iconic white colonial landmark and the headquarters of the Greater Chennai Corporation, one of India’s oldest municipal bodies.
• Victoria Public Hall – A beautifully restored Victorian-era public hall, reflecting Chennai’s colonial heritage. (Prior permission required. Closed on Tuesdays.)
• Chennai Central Railway Station – One of India’s busiest railway terminals, admired for its impressive Gothic Revival architecture.
• Southern Railway Headquarters – A magnificent heritage building showcasing Neo-Dravidian architecture.
• Government General Hospital – One of India’s oldest hospitals, playing an important role in the country’s medical history.
• Madras Medical College – One of India’s oldest and most prestigious medical institutions.
• YMCA Building – The first American-supported YMCA building in India and an important educational landmark.
• Armenian Street & Armenian Church – A reminder of Chennai’s rich trading history and the Armenian community that once flourished here.
• St. Andrew’s Church – A historic colonial church admired for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Shopping in Chennai: Chennai offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from bustling local markets to premium shopping malls, catering to every budget and preference. 

For budget-friendly shopping, guests can explore Pondy Bazaar, T. Nagar, Mylapore, Parry’s Corner, Sowcarpet, Pantheon Road, and Spencer Plaza, one of Chennai’s iconic heritage shopping centres. 

For a more modern shopping experience, Chennai has several popular malls featuring international brands, restaurants, entertainment, and cinemas:

• Phoenix Market City – Velachery
• Express Avenue – Mount Road
• VR Chennai – Anna Nagar
• Nexus Vijaya Mall (formerly Forum Vijaya Mall) – Vadapalani

We hope this information will help plan your clients’ tours to South India.