Sightseeing in Chennai

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Chennai Sights

With a rich history stretching back millennia, Chennai is full of fascinating sights, pristine temples, cathedrals, forts, colonial houses, battlegrounds, bazaars, and everything in between.  There are even natural wonders for those who never felt comfortable with dates, figures, and historic personalities.  If you plan to spend more than a few days during your medical tourism vacation, be sure to squeeze in a few of the below sights into your itinerary. 

Kapaleeshwar Temple

This 8^th century shrine to the Destroyer, Lord Siva, is the biggest temple in the city and is built along Dravidian architectural lines.  All elements of this distinctive school are visible in the temple, including gopurams, mandapams, and a tank, and the façade is covered with inscriptions dating back to1250 AD.  Non Hindus aren’t allowed entry into the sanctum sanctorum.   

San Thome Cathedral Church

Built by the Portuguese in 1504, this Roman Catholic basilica houses the remains of Christ’s doubting apostle, Thomas. It was rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style in 1893. 

Fort St. George

Head to Fort St. George, the first fortified British settlement in the.  This walled structure contains many prominent landmarks like St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in India.  In its modern avatar, it houses the offices of the Government and the Fort Museum which displays a collection of objects dating back to the rule of the East India Company in Chennai.  Especially noteworthy are letters written by Sir Robert Clive and a selection of contemporary paintings.  

Snake Park

This specialty zoo houses over thirty species of snakes, and a variety of exotic tortoises, turtles, and lizards. There is also a museum, and library on the premises.  If reptiles make your skin crawl, it’s best to avoid this area altogether. 

Marina Beach

This thirteen kilometer stretch of beach is Chennai’s most popular attraction.  Strong currents keep all but the strongest swimmers away, but this is where Chennaiites head on weekends, so it’s a great place to observe the locals in action.  The aquarium nearby is on the paltry side but is packed with kids anyway.  Guys selling coconut water and the area’s specialty fresh-grilled mackerel do roaring business. Keep your bikini back in the hotel room- you’re likely to offend conservative locals!

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