7 Best Historical Places in Chennai

Historical places in Chennai are in abundance and include several temples and churches. There are several famous historical sites in Chennai like Pallivasal Beach, Alagar Cathedral, Fort St George, Joseph Rice Temple, Silent Monastery, Meenakshi Temple, Velliengiri Hills, and many more.

These historical sites add a flavor to life in Chennai, and the photographs of locales are well worth seeing. The beautiful botanical gardens, waterfalls, and other natural wonders of Chennai entice the visitors the most.

Here is the list of the Top 7 Famous Historical Places in Chennai:

1. Government Museum

This museum was established in 1851. It is one of the most significant areas of Chennai which emphasizes the importance of South India.

Being the most recognized gallery in India, this can be the very best historical place for you in Chennai. It has 6 sections that have unique 46 screens that you may view in this museum. Read Also: Top 10 Places to See near Chennai in April

Location: Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai

Highlights:

• Established: 1851, making it the second oldest museum in India
• Collections: Archaeology, numismatics, zoology, natural history, and art
• Bronze Gallery: Renowned for its collection of South Indian bronzes
• Children’s Museum: Interactive exhibits and educational displays

Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Closed on Fridays and national holidays

Entry Fees:

• Adults: ₹15 (Indian), ₹250 (Foreigners)
• Children (up to 12 years): ₹10
• Free for students with valid ID

Activities: Exploring galleries, attending exhibitions, educational tours

Tips: Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum

2. Valluvar Kottam

The place got this title to recall one of the excellent writers and the logician named Thiruvallu. Few of the fine works could be seen on this renowned landmark.

Aside from that, many other most satisfactory results may also be viewed here from the 35 meters of Goliath that’s the gorgeous attraction of the place.

Location: Nungambakkam, Chennai

Highlights:

• Dedicated to: Thiruvalluvar, the classical Tamil poet and philosopher
• Structure: Built in the shape of a temple chariot with a life-sized statue of Thiruvalluvar
• Hall of Fame: Contains inscriptions of 1330 verses from Thirukkural
• Architecture: Dravidian style with intricate carvings and sculptures

Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Open all days

Entry Fees:

• Adults: ₹10
• Children (up to 12 years): ₹5

Activities: Photography, learning about Tamil literature, attending cultural events

Tips: Visit during early hours to avoid the heat and for better lighting for photographs

3. Fort St George

Fort St George was founded in 1644. It is also known as the white city. It is the place from where East India Company used to get the job done. Among the very best areas to be aware of is the last of Old Madras.

It is a must-visit spot for tourists in Chennai. Presently, this place is the home of the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and various official buildings.

Location: Rajaji Salai, Chennai

Highlights:

• Established: 1644, by the British East India Company
• Historical Significance: First English fortress in India
• Museum: Houses artifacts from the colonial period, including weapons, coins, and documents
• St Mary’s Church: The oldest Anglican church in India, located within the fort

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Closed on Fridays and national holidays

Entry Fees:

• Adults: ₹15 (Indian), ₹200 (Foreigners)
• Children: ₹5

Activities: Guided tours, exploring the museum and church, learning about colonial history

Tips: Carry a valid ID for entry, as it’s located in a high-security area

Read also: September Monsoon Destinations Near Chennai

4. Alamparai Fort

This was where zari fabric, ghee, and salt were exported out of a 100-meter dockyard. The Fort has a very long history that reveals how the French captured the Fort of Mughals and then dropped it to Britishers, who ruined the building in 1760 AD.

The architecture of the Fort will give you a wonderful sightseeing experience.

Location: Edaikazhinadu, 50 km from Mahabalipuram

Highlights:

• Built: During the Mughal era, around the 17th century
• Features: Ruins of the fort, a scenic view of the Bay of Bengal, and a dockyard
• Historical Significance: Once a major seaport for trade

Timings: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: Free

Activities: Exploring ruins, enjoying the coastal view, bird watching

Tips: Combine the visit with a trip to Mahabalipuram for a full day of historical exploration

Read also:

• Top South India Destinations to Explore in October
• Top Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu for October

5. San Thome Cathedral

The architectural design of the church has become the most remarkable attraction of the beautifully constructed architecture. The place is built over the tomb of Saint Thomas in 16th Century by the Portuguese.

Location: Santhome High Road, Chennai

Highlights:

• Built: By Portuguese explorers in the 16th century, rebuilt by the British in 1893
• Dedicated to: St. Thomas the Apostle, whose tomb is located here
• Architecture: Neo-Gothic style with stained glass windows
• Museum: Contains artifacts related to St. Thomas and Christian relics

Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Open all days

Entry Fees: Free

Activities: Attending mass, exploring the museum, appreciating the architecture

Tips: Respect the sanctity of the place and dress modestly

Also read: 10 Most Famous Temples in Chennai

6. Connemara Public Library

This is the location like heaven for readers. It was established in 1896. In this Connemara Public Library, you will discover many rare novels and several different books on various subjects and subjects.

If you’re among those that wish to learn more about the rare book set, then this is the ideal location for you.

Location: Egmore, Chennai

Highlights:

• Established: 1896, part of the Madras Museum complex
• Collections: Extensive range of books, periodicals, and manuscripts
• Architecture: Blends Southern Hindu Deccan, Gothic, and Rajput styles
• Reading Rooms: Spacious and quiet, ideal for study and research

Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM (Monday to Saturday), 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Sunday), Closed on public holidays

Entry Fees: Free

Activities: Reading, research, exploring architectural details

Tips: Carry a library membership card if you wish to borrow books

7. Arignar Anna Zoological Park

This is a huge zoo covering 510 hectares of the property where 170 distinct species of wildlife can be viewed. This is the most beautiful place for wild animal lovers or wildlife lovers.

Many of the most well-known animals like lions, tigers, hyenas dinosaurs, dads, etc., could be seen at this zoo. In this zoo, you will see battery-powered vehicles for people who don’t want to walk.

Location: Vandalur, 32 km from Chennai

Highlights:

• Established: 1855, relocated to its current location in 1985
• Features: One of the largest zoos in South Asia, spread over 602 hectares
• Exhibits: Wide variety of animals, including endangered species
• Safari: Lion and deer safari available

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Closed on Tuesdays

Entry Fees:

• Adults: ₹50
• Children (up to 12 years): ₹20
• Safari: Additional charges apply

Activities: Wildlife safari, educational tours, picnicking

Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water bottles

Conclusion

In short, we can say that Chennai is a perfect place for tourism. There is no doubt that people worldwide visit this city to spend their weekend or even a week in this city.

This city has good weather all around the year and is always welcoming to the tourists. You can also arrange for a tailor-made tour that includes your tour to this and that place. Thus, all that we say is true, and it is great to visit Chennai.

To learn more about Tamil Nadu, visit our articles:

• 10 Places you must visit to see the great temples of Tamil Nadu
• 5 Architectural Buildings in Tamil Nadu
• 8 Popular Hill Stations to Visit in Tamil Nadu
• Honeymoon Places in Tamil Nadu for a Romantic Trip
• Famous traditional folk dance of Tamilnadu
• Top 10 Famous Destinations to See near Chennai in April 2025

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can you provide a list of area names in Chennai?

Some area names in Chennai include:

• Adyar
• Anna Nagar
• T. Nagar
• Velachery
• Kodambakkam

2. What are the best places to visit in Chennai?

The best places to visit in Chennai are Marina Beach, Fort St. George, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Government Museum, and Santhome Cathedral Basilica.

3. Which famous monuments can be found in Chennai?

Famous monuments in Chennai include Fort St. George, Valluvar Kottam, and the Victory War Memorial.

4. What is Chennai famous for?

Chennai is famous for its beaches, temples, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene.

5. What are the iconic buildings in Chennai?

Iconic buildings in Chennai include Ripon Building, Central Railway Station, and Madras High Court.

6. Which are the heritage sites in Chennai?

Heritage sites in Chennai include the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and the Senate House.

7. What is the history of Chennai’s name change?

Chennai was previously known as Madras until 1996 when the name was officially changed to Chennai.

8. Which are the famous libraries in Chennai?

The famous libraries in Chennai are the Connemara Public Library and the Anna Centenary Library.

9. What are the famous places in Chennai for couples?

Famous places in Chennai for couples include Besant Nagar Beach, Semmozhi Poonga, and ECR (East Coast Road).

10. Which are the historical places to visit in Chennai?

Historical places to visit in Chennai include Fort St. George, Government Museum, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple.

11. What is Chennai known for?

Chennai is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, educational institutions, and bustling commercial centers.