TOP THINGS TO DO IN CHENNAI, INDIA| BEST SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS
As my first destination in India, Chennai was a great starter and not as overwhelming as I thought India might be. In fact, other than they heavy, congested traffic scene like most major cities, I felt at east most of the time. I suppose it also helped that I had the company of my local friends that were great guides and I have much gratitude for them! They helped show me the most visited sites of Chennai and I got to use multiple modes of transport as well.
MARINA BEACH
As one friend stated, Marina Beach has a certain charm to it despite not being the most well-kept beach. I had found myself visiting Marina Beach multiple times and taking night walks there became a ritual. Throughout both night and day there are carnival-like activities on the beach such as shooting balloons, a carousel, and other games. I was actually better than I thought at shooting balloons considering it was my first time and it did add a fun element to as seemingly ordinary beach. At night, boats are docked on the beach which also makes for a great photo shoot. If you can overlook the litter in certain areas of the beach and enjoy the simplicity of the atmospheres, it can definitely be a charming place to visit (as stated by my friend). Besides, it is India’s longest urban beach and one of the longest in the world, so you have to visit!
THE LIGHTHOUSE AT MARINA BEACH
Moving along Marina Beach, you’ll see at one end a lighthouse. This lighthouse was an easy climb because I didn’t really need to climb at all. In fact, from what I recall, there was an elevator that scaled most of the floors and very less stairs to climb. For a nominal fee, probably a couple of dollars at most, you can reach the top floor of the lighthouse that overlooks Marina Beach. The best part is that you can spend a decent amount of time there without being rushed out. There wasn’t much of a turnover of visitors at the time I went and it is less crowded if you arrive at the opening times. The view is definitely worth the wait and you will capture amazing landscape views in the end.
*See post “Asia Travel Highlights” *
SANTHOME CHURCH (ST.THOMAS CATHEDRAL BASILICA)
An absolute must visit due to the amazing gothic architecture and incredible interior construction. I honestly felt that I was transported to Europe the moment I stepped inside St. Thomas Cathedral. If you’re looking for a quiet visit than I recommend arriving on a weekday afternoon. This Roman Catholic cathedral was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. Underneath the cathedral is a tomb dedicated to one of the original twelve apostles, Thomas, which is incredible in itself to think I’ve walked the same land as he did. Even Marco Polo managed to make his way here which is pretty impressive!
KAPALEESHWARER TEMPLE
To reach this temple, it is advisable to take a taxi unless you decide to rent a car, but I suggest you don’t drive during peak times as always. According to locals, the is one of the most famous Hindu temples to visit and not incredibly far from the city center. However, what we did not realize is that foreigners are not allowed to enter the shrine/praying area, which I found to be almost shocking considering the status of the temple and that many tourists would likely have this site on their itinerary. Anyhow, as long as you don’t mind the exterior views of the temple, you can still see it from an architectural standpoint, but won’t be able to go any deeper.
CHENNAI RAILWAY STATION
I was captured in a whirlwind the moment I entered this station, it is bustling with locals awaiting trains to various locations including Bangalore. This station was incredibly active and busy that walking through it was like a flash in my imagination. If you get a moment to gaze at the outer construction, do visit before rush hour.
