Hello fellow historians and seekers of knowledge! We can be honest here. When you think of Chennai, chances are you think of filter coffee, the beautiful Marina Beach, and of course, yummy dosas.But, what if I told you that this busy city is also home to incredible historical places to visit in Chennai? A city with a fort, a temple, or a building that holds stories of dynasties, colonial empires, and ancient cultures.
Isn’t that the thrill of historical places to visit in Chennai? It is a city, not just a gateway to South India but a true living museum. You can see everything from the serene recall of temples that were older before the construction of the British colonial forts! Experiencing Chennai’s memories will be a breathtaking and monumental experience. Just remember to bring your curiosity and sunscreen as we travel through time to uncover the truest stories of this great city.
9 Must-Visit Chennai Historical Sites
The history of Chennai isn’t just found in books; it’s dictated by the city’s landscape. This section provides you with our recommendations of the most interesting heritage sites in Chennai. We’re exploring areas that have a colorful past. Each site possesses the charm of an earlier period. Lucky for you, these sites are all marked on our map!
1. Government Museum
Often touted as Chennai’s crown jewel of tourism, the Government Museum in Egmore is a history enthusiasts dream. Established in 1851, this museum is one of the oldest museums in India, and is housed in award-winning Indo-Saracenic architecture. However, the real treat comes with what’s inside. The Museum is home to an impressive collection, with such highlights including the Bronze Galleries which house many priceless artifacts from the Chola period—where the divine beauty of the Nataraja statue is present, a worthy experience. The Government Museum is an entertaining way to begin your Chennai heritage tour, and to learn about TamilNadu’s rich culture.
Location: Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai.
Price: Approximately ₹15 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners. Extra for camera.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays & National Holidays)
2. Fort St. George
Are you ready to walk the halls of power from the 1600s? Welcome to Fort St. George, the first British fort in India, and the birthplace of modern Chennai (Madras). Upon entering the fortress gates, the era of the East India Company awaits you. The fort complex is home to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the stunning St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in India. The on-site museum has a variety of colonial artifacts, from letters by Robert Clive, to old uniforms and old weapons. It’s an unmissable heritage site in Tamil Nadu.
Location: Rajaji Salai, Fort St George, Chennai.
Price: The fort entry is free. Museum entry is around ₹15 for Indians.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
3. Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore
Every list of historical places to visit in Chennai has to include this masterpiece. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a brilliant example of gorgeous Dravidian architecture with its iconic and magnificent gopuram (gateway tower) soaring into the Mylapore skyline. The temple tank and surrounding streets seem to have a palpable spiritual energy to them. Legend has it that this temple is over 1300 years old! Whether you are looking for blessings or simply marveling at the craftsmanship – the colours, the sculptures and chanting all combine to create an amazing experience.
Location: Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai.
Price: Free entry.
Timings: Generally from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
4. San Thome Basilica
The San Thome Basilica is an attractive Roman Catholic minor basilica. The basilica is close to the beach, and is a tall white structure from the beach that contrasts against the blue sky. The building itself is well kept up, yet beautiful, and has a significant history. The basilica was built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers and was built right on the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Christ’s 12 apostles and is believed to have preached in Chennai and died there. The neo-gothic style is beautiful, as are the stained-glass windows retracing the wonderful life of St. Thomas. The experience in the basilica is quiet and peaceful, almost meditative. The basilica is also a significant heritage site for Christians and has a great sense of peace.
Location: Santhome High Road, San Thome, Chennai.
Price: Free entry.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day.
5. Marundeeswarar Temple, Thiruvanmiyur
Marundeeswarar Temple is another antiquity dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marundeeswarar means “Lord of Medicines”. One legend claims Sanskrit sage Valmiki (of Ramayana fame) worshiped here. The temple is more than a worship stop; one of the spots where people traditionally visited for cures! The architecture is traditional Dravidian. The temple is not as touristy, which is good for immersion into their beliefs and traditions. It’s a different stop on your Chennai pilgrimage tour.
Location: Marundeeswarar Sannadhi St, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai.
Price: Free entry.
Timings: Typically from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
6. Valluvar Kottam
Although hardly ancient, the Valluvar Kottam , is one of the iconic monuments of Chennai and a grand salute to the revered Tamil poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar. The Valluvar Kottam is shaped like a large temple chariot (ther) and was established as Tamil Nadu’s first auditorium in 1976. The most appealing aspect of Valluvar Kottam is its 133- ft tall replica of the one and only temple chariot of Thiruvarur-there is a replica of the temple chariot centre of the city with 133 chapters of Thiruvalluvar’s stellar work the Thirukkural. Valluvar Kottam is a highlight of Tamil culture and history mixed with modern engineering; there is nothing else like it in the heart of Chennai.
Location: Valluvar Kottam High Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai.
Price: Nominal entry fee (around ₹10).
Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
7. Ripon Building
You can’t miss the majestic white Ripon Building, the seat of the Chennai Corporation. It is named after Lord Ripon, a Viceroy of India. Ripon Building is an example of neoclassical architecture – complete with a glorious clock tower. Built in 1913, the Ripon Building looks like it has been taken off the pages of a British administrative handbook. You may not be able to be afforded much time inside, a brief look at the exterior – and especially while it is illuminated in the evening – would make any lover of architecture and history smile.
Location: Park Town, Chennai
Price: Viewing from the outside is free.
Timings: Can be viewed at any time from the public square.
8. Sri Ramakrishna Math, Mylapore
Sri Ramakrishna Math, seated running along the Adyar river, is dedicated to the principles of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a 19th century saint and spiritual philosopher. Counted among the historical places to visit in Chennai, it offers a spiritually fruitful environment with serene gardens and an inviting zen-like ‘Samadhi’ area for peace and contemplation. The architecture of the main shrine was surprisingly simple, but imposing. It seems as much of a place to confront ideas and philosophies, to study and add concepts and philosophies that enable or connect to action, than a place of worship or reflection. The overall vibe is tranquil and zen-like, and is perhaps life outside of the city’s hustle and bustle, it’s both interesting and comforting to provide an escape from the metropolitan inner-city.
Location: Sri Ramakrishna Math Road, Mylapore, Chennai
Price: Free entry.
Timings: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
9. Alamparai Fort
Have a little bit of adventure in you? A mere drive of about 90 mins south of the city takes you to the stunningly desolate ruins of Alamparai Fort. The complex is a former 17th-century Mughal-built fort dating the successor to a former trade port controlled by the French and then the British. Now the crumbling walls and arches of the fort contrast dramatically against the shimmering Bay of Bengal. You will find no fancy museum or guides here, just wind, waves and ghost stories of old. It would be a perfect day for photographers and those interested in history that is rugged and raw.
Location: Near Kadappakkam village, about 90 km from Chennai.
Price: Free entry.
Timings: Open all day, but best visited during daylight hours.
Wrapping Up
From the quiet and stillness of an ancient temple to the military-power of a colonial fort, the historical sites in Chennai have a story so diverse, it is difficult not to be affected.
The way Chennai blends its glorious past with its fast-moving present is notable. One minute you are looking at a 1,000 year-old sculpture, the next you’re drinking the world’s best filter coffee out of a shiny stainless steel tumbler. Now that is Chennai!
The next time you plan a trip, think beyond the ordinary. There are layers of history to peel away that make this city great. Take in all these heritage sites in Tamil Nadu, get lost in the stories and let the eternity of Chennai touch you. You will leave with a full memory card, and full stories to tell.
Happy Time Traveling!
