Marina Beach is the pride of Chennai and holds the title of the longest urban beach in India and the second longest in the world, stretching over 13 km along the Bay of Bengal. A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, the beach is known for its expansive sandy shores, mesmerizing sunrises, and a bustling promenade that reflects the city's cultural and social vibrance. In the early morning hours, the beach is serene and ideal for long walks or jogs. As the day progresses, it transforms into a lively social hub with vendors selling local snacks like murukku, sundal, and ice cream, kite flyers painting the sky, and street performers adding to the charm. Key Attractions and Things to Do: Enjoy sunrise walks along the beach. Explore the statues of Tamil poets and national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. Visit the nearby Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the beach and city. Take part in local street food experiences. Explore nearby attractions like Vivekananda House, Santhome Cathedral, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Best Time to Visit: November to February offers pleasant weather and is ideal for sightseeing and beach activities. How to Reach: By Air: Chennai International Airport (approx. 18 km away). By Train: Chennai Central (3.5 km) and Chennai Egmore (4.5 km) are the nearest major railway stations. By Metro/Bus/Taxi: Well-connected via Chennai’s public transport system. Whether you're seeking a peaceful sunrise or a lively evening by the sea, Marina Beach promises an unforgettable coastal experience.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple, located in the Mylapore neighborhood of Chennai, is one of the most iconic and sacred temples in South India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Kapaleeshwarar, and his consort Goddess Parvati, worshipped as Karpagambal, the temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. It is believed to have been originally built in the 7th century CE by the Pallavas, though the current structure, with its soaring gopuram (gateway tower), was rebuilt by the Vijayanagar rulers in the 16th century. The temple is rich in history and mythology. According to legend, Goddess Parvati once worshipped Lord Shiva in the form of a peacock (mayil), giving the area its name—Mylapore. This legend is depicted in several temple sculptures and murals. Key Attractions and Things to Do: Admire the stunning Dravidian-style architecture and intricate sculptures. Participate in the rituals and pujas held throughout the day. Witness the vibrant Arubathimoovar Festival, a highlight during the Tamil month of Panguni (March–April). Explore the temple tank, used in rituals and festivities. Stroll through the Mylapore streets, filled with heritage, flower vendors, and traditional music. Best Time to Visit: Between November and March, when the weather is cooler. The Panguni Festival in March–April is the most festive time. How to Reach: By Air: Chennai International Airport (approx. 16 km) By Train: Chennai Central Railway Station (approx. 7 km) By Metro/Bus: Well-connected by Chennai Metro and local buses to Mylapore.

Fort St. George, located in the coastal city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, holds the distinction of being the first English fortress built in India. Established in 1644 by the British East India Company, the fort marked the beginning of British influence in South India. It served as a strategic base for trade, governance, and military operations. Today, Fort St. George is a heritage landmark symbolizing colonial architecture, history, and governance. The fort houses several important structures. One of its key attractions is the Fort Museum, which displays a vast collection of artifacts from the British Raj, including portraits, coins, weapons, and uniforms. Another significant building is St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in India, where Robert Clive got married. The fort is also home to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and Secretariat, making it a working administrative complex. Key Attractions and Things to Do: Explore the Fort Museum and its rare colonial-era exhibits. Visit St. Mary’s Church for its historic and architectural beauty. Walk around the colonial structures and learn about British architecture. Capture scenic views of the marina from the fort’s ramparts. Best Time to Visit: November to February is ideal due to the cooler climate. How to Reach: By Air: Chennai International Airport (approx. 20 km away). By Train: Chennai Central Railway Station (approx. 3 km away). By Metro/Bus: Easily accessible via local transport and metro rail.

San Thome Basilica, located in the Mylapore area of Chennai, is one of the most revered Christian sites in India. Built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have brought Christianity to India in 52 AD, the church is one of only three churches in the world built over the remains of a direct disciple of Jesus Christ — the other two being St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The current Neo-Gothic structure, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later rebuilt by the British in 1896, is a stunning example of colonial architecture. Its tall spire, gleaming white facade, stained glass windows, and wooden interiors create a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Inside the church lies a crypt chapel where Saint Thomas is believed to be buried, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. The museum within the basilica showcases historical relics, ancient manuscripts, and paintings associated with the saint. Key Attractions and Things to Do: Visit the tomb of Saint Thomas in the underground chapel. Explore the museum that chronicles the arrival of Christianity in India. Admire the Neo-Gothic architecture and stained-glass artwork. Attend mass or enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the cathedral. Walk around the nearby Marina Beach promenade. Best Time to Visit: November to February is the best time due to pleasant weather. The church also hosts special services during Christmas and Easter, which are beautiful to witness. How to Reach: By Air: Chennai International Airport is around 17 km away. By Train: Chennai Central Station is approx. 6 km away. By Metro: Nearest metro station is Government Estate (Line 1). By Road: Well-connected via local buses, taxis, and autos.

Established on August 18, 1865, the Government Museum in Bengaluru is one of the oldest museums in the country and the second oldest in South India. It was founded under the guidance of Surgeon Edward Balfour and has since become a significant repository of archaeological and geological artifacts. The museum is located on Kasturba Road, near Cubbon Park, in a building designed by Colonel Richard Sankey, completed in 1877. The museum features two exhibition floors divided into 18 galleries that cover various sections, including sculpture, natural history, geology, art, music, and numismatics. Notable collections include: Halmidi Inscription: The earliest Kannada inscription dating back to 450 AD. Sculptures: Artifacts from the Hoysala, Gandhara, and Nolamba periods. Terracotta Artifacts: Items from Mathura and weapons from Kodagu. Paintings: A collection of 70 paintings reflecting the Deccan, Mysore, and Tanjore styles. Neolithic Pottery: Excavated artifacts from Chandravalli and other historical sites like Mohenjodaro and Vijayanagara. The museum also houses a scale model of Srirangapatna Fort from the time of Tipu Sultan and various old musical instruments. The museum is open to visitors from 10 AM to 5 PM every day except Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee is ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children.