Chennai is a city full of life, offering many things to do in Chennai for all kinds of visitors. The city presents attractions from tranquil beach areas and historic temple sites alongside lively shopping streets and thrilling outdoor activities. One cannot have a complete Chennai trip experience without tasting its memorable food and observing its vibrant nightlife alongside sightseeing its notable landmarks. Chennai provides rich activities during any hour of the day so guests with friends and families can find entertaining options. Visitors will cherish special unforgettable memories in this lively city which beautifully combines tradition with adventurous activities.
25 Interesting Things to Do in Chennai
We have curated the top things to do in Chennai including beaches and temples alongside thrill-seeking activities and shopping destinations. Every person who visits Chennai will discover something interesting based on whether they plan a trip with their friends or family. You can also check the best time to visit Chennai, to plan your trip better. Keep reading to know more!
1. Elliot’s Beach: Sunrise Views
Visitors should see Elliot's Beach among the peaceful things to do in Chennai. Elliot's Beach provides the perfect environment of calmness together with its sandy shores during the sunrise. The beach creates a serene atmosphere suitable for both solo and friendly beach walks. Surrounding cafes at this location serve diverse appetizers for visitors.
Location: Besant Nagar
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
2. Mahabalipuram: Sculptures
A day visit to Mahabalipuram represents a top choice among things to do in Chennai. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage designation visitors find rock-cut temple sculptures and the legendary Shore Temple. The site attracts visitors who love both exploring history and taking photographs.
- Location: Mahabalipuram, 60 km from Chennai
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 for Adults, ₹10 for Children
Suggested Read: South India's Scenic Splendor: A Journey in the Vistadome
3. Kapaleeshwar Temple: Historic Temple
Visiting the Kapaleeshwarar Temple stands among the top things to do in Chennai for spiritual exploration. At this historic sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva, visitors can explore the Dravidian architectural masterpiece which displays gopurams along with vibrant sculpturing throughout the complex. A peaceful place for devotion and exploration.
- Location: Mylapore
- Timings: The temple operates between 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and then reopens between 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free
4. Muttukadu: Water Activities
Muttukadu serves up Chennai's adventurous experiences and is considered one of the top things to do in Chennai with friends which includes water-based activities boating windsurfing and water skiing. The area near the Bay of Bengal backwaters provides an exceptional spot for water activities and breezy enjoyment that makes it the perfect destination for family fun with friends.
- Location: Muttukadu, Chennai
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 (Entry), ₹500 onwards for activities
Suggested Read: The Places To Visit In South India: A Cultural Journey
5. Trekking at Vedanthangal
Among the top things to do in Chennai, visiting Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is the best as it provides the ideal nature hiking experience. Bird watchers should visit this site for both scenic trekking experiences along opportunities to see migrating birds. Explore nature peacefully at this location.
- Location: Vedanthangal, 85 km from Chennai
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹10 for Adults, ₹5 for Children
6. Queens Land: Enjoy Fun Rides
When looking for exciting things to do in Chennai, Queens Land is an amusement park that promises fun-filled rides and games. The family-friendly spot features numerous rides that accommodate full thrill seekers alongside lots of activities for children.
- Location: Poonamallee, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹400 for Adults, ₹300 for Children
Suggested Read: Best Tourist Places To Visit In Summer In South India: An Immersive Experience
7. IIT-Madras: Take A Nature Walk
A serene nature walk through IIT Madras makes up a peaceful Chennai recreational opportunity and is considered as one of the relaxing things to do in Chennai. The institution extends its boundaries along walkways full of greenery while providing serene lakes for visitors alongside spectacular wooded paths. Relaxation seekers find complete satisfaction in their peaceful walks through natural environments with this destination.
- Location: IIT Madras, Chennai
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
8. Pondy Bazaar: Shopping
People should make Pondy Bazaar shopping among the top things to do in Chennai. People can discover anything at this active market from fashion items to local street dishes. This destination provides an ideal setting for looking around town and buying some souvenirs.
- Location: T. Nagar, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Top Hill Stations In South India: Discover Breathtaking Retreats Awaiting You
9. Birla Planetarium: Galaxy Exploration
Anyone interested in space science should consider visiting Birla Planetarium among the top things to do in Chennai. This state-of-the-art facility lets you experience sky shows while teaching planetary science and galaxy exploration along with stellar education. This destination provides both educational content alongside entertainment that satisfies both children and older visitors.
- Location: Kotturpuram, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for Adults, ₹20 for Children
10. National Art Gallery: Beautiful Art
Visitors searching for meaningful cultural things to do in Chennai should include a visit to the National Art Gallery among their priorities. The exhibition displays traditional Indian artwork together with contemporary paintings alongside sculptures. A calm peaceful space dedicated to experiencing the splendour of India's heritage.
- Location: Egmore, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹15 for Adults, ₹10 for Children
Suggested Read: Coldest Places In South India: A Relief From The Heat
11. Ubbalamadugu Falls: For Photography
Visitors who want sensational nature photographs should consider visiting Ubbalamadugu Falls as one of the top things to do in Chennai since it ranks among the top for nature enthusiasts. Nature has created a perfect setting at this waterfall because the surrounding landscape offers stunning photographs. Travelers can reach this spot easily from Chennai for their day trip.
- Location: Ubbalamadugu, 90 km from Chennai
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
12. Pulicat Lake: Birdwatching & Scenic Views
Nature lovers and bird watchers can find comfortable refuge at Pulicat Lake. Visiting this attraction stands among the top things to do in Chennai because it gives people an opportunity to observe migratory birds and experience peaceful water environments. The breathtaking natural scenery at this location has to be experienced by people who enjoy nature and take pictures.
- Location: Pulicat, 60 km from Chennai
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for Adults, ₹20 for Children
13. Barracuda Bay: Fishing
Barracuda Bay has become a great pick among city tourism highlights and one of the best things to do in Chennai. From fishing lines to water relaxation and scenic beach sights, visitors can enjoy everything the coast has to offer. A day at this location makes for perfect casual fun with friends.
- Location: Near Kovalam, Chennai
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹200 for fishing
14. Chennai Cuisine: Tasty Food
Food tours present one of the most compelling attractions within Chennai because the city holds an extraordinary variety of dining choices. Besides Chettinad curries, there's filter coffee and idlis, dosas that cater to diverse cravings simultaneously. Try every traditional local dish during your city visit.
- Location: Various restaurants across Chennai
- Timings: Varies by restaurant
- Entry Fee: Based on choice of restaurant
15. Scuba Diving: Thrilling Adventure
Scuba explorers can dive into the bay waters to experience one of the top things to do in Chennai. Scuba diving under trained supervision at the Bay of Bengal provides a secure experience through which you can study marine creatures. See the colourful marine creatures that live in the Bay of Bengal underwater.
- Location: Covelong Beach, Chennai
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 depending on the dive
16. Lion Safari: Visit Arignar Anna Zoo
A visit to the Arignar Anna Zoological Park located at Vandalur functions as one of the fun things to do in Chennai. A lion safari lets you observe numerous wildlife species while they live in their natural environment. Visiting this destination provides chances to experience wildlife while offering a family-friendly environment for learning about animals.
- Location: Vandalur, Chennai
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for Adults, ₹20 for Children
17. Cultural Tour: Explore Dakshinachitra
Dakshinachitra showcases the cultural heritage of South India which securely positions it as one of the most enriching things to do in Chennai for those fascinated by history. Visitors may explore South Indian art alongside architecture as well as crafts and academic performances. Visitors encounter living history in this space where they can both study traditional crafts and discover cultural knowledge.
- Location: East Coast Road, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 for Adults, ₹15 for Children
18. Parasailing: Panoramic View
Spend your time in Chennai experiencing the exhilarating adventure of parasailing because the exhilarating panorama it provides ranks among the most exciting things to do in Chennai. Aerial views of the coastline and beaches emerge as you ascend above the city. Every thrill-seeking adventurer should experience this ultimate adventure.
- Location: Marina Beach, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹2,000 onwards
19. Fun Day: Visit MGM Dizzee World
The specialized amusement park MGM Dizzee World delivers multiple exciting features along with thrilling attractions suitable for people from all age groups. Visiting MGM Dizzee World stands among the most interesting things to do in Chennai for families who want exciting spending time together. Visitors can enjoy multiple amusement park attractions including water slides along with roller coasters.
- Location: East Coast Road, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹500 for Adults, ₹400 for Children
20. Beach Hopping: Best Beaches
Chennai has several fantastic beaches which makes beach hopping one of the best things to do in Chennai. The coastline stretching from Marina Beach through Covelong Beach provides different beach experiences for those who enjoy rest action and ocean views.
- Location: Various beaches along Chennai coastline
- Timings: Varies by beach
- Entry Fee: Free
21. Camping: Get Closer to Nature
Nature enthusiasts can find relaxed moments by camping outside of Chennai city limits. Nature enthusiasts should make this excursion while exploring Chennai because it stands among the best things to do in Chennai at night. Nature lovers should set up tents to enjoy campfires among the outdoors defeats of the night sky.
- Location: Muttukadu
- Timings: Varies
- Entry Fee: ₹1,000 per person
22. Rock Climbing: Thrills
Adventure seekers rank rock climbing as their preferred activity since it makes the best out of any Chennai visit. Several climbing locations throughout the city challenge both your physical abilities and endurance levels. People who want to test their limits will discover rock climbing as a perfect activity within secure boundaries.
- Location: Vandalur, Chennai
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹500 onwards
23. Paintball: Fun with Friends
Paintball is one of the best things to do in Chennai for friends and groups. After teaming with others each person gets to play an exciting high-octane game of collaboration using strategy to reach victory. This action-packed recreation adaptation promises both friends and relatives an exciting time at every visit.
- Location: OMR, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹1,000 onwards
24. VGP Universal Kingdom: Fun Rides
People of all ages will find fun activities at VGP Universal Kingdom which operates as an amusement park. Vising the amusement park stands among the top things to do in Chennai by offering its visitors exhilarating rides alongside watery attractions spread across a gorgeous seaside area. As one unified space, it makes this area ideal for both families who want to spend time together and visitors seeking casual entertainment.
- Location: ECR Road, Injambakkam, Chennai
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹500 for Adults, ₹400 for Children
25. San Thome Basilica: Historic Church
The San Thome Basilica stands as an impressive historical church that attracts visitors seeking cultural exploration and visiting here is considered one of the top things to do in Chennai. The basilica serves St. Thomas as one of the few religious sites worldwide that houses the remains of this apostle. As a landmark of spiritual heritage San Thome Basilica stands as the most famous Christian destination in Chennai.
- Location: San Thome High Road, Chennai
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Conclusion
Chennai is a city full of exciting experiences, offering everything from beautiful beaches and historic temples to thrilling adventures and bustling shopping streets. All the things to do in Chennai bring together entertainment along with cultural pursuits and touching memories. So pack your bags and let Capture A Trip plan the perfect journey for you, making every experience smooth, fun, and truly memorable!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I spend my day with friends in Chennai?
Visitors can experience Elliot's Beach as well as visit Pondy Bazaar to shop and have fun with adventure options such as paintball and parasailing.
2. Which is the famous thing in Chennai?
The Marina Beach is famous in Chennai along with Kapaleeshwar Temple architecture traditional South Indian food and lively historic legacy.
3. How can I enjoy Chennai?
Explore the beaches, visit historic sites, try thrilling activities, shop at local markets, and enjoy the tasty local cuisine.
4. What is Chennai's Favourite food?
The traditional South Indian foods dosa, idli, vada with sambar, and filter coffee are what people most love about local cuisine in Chennai.
