Things to do in Chennai

Things to do in Chennai

From the iconic Marina Beach to Dravidian temples and street food trails, discover the most exciting things to do in Chennai for every type of traveller.

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In summary

  • Explore the best things to do in Chennai, a city known for beaches, temples, culture, food, and modern attractions.
  • Visit Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, museums, and shopping areas.
  • Enjoy coastal views, heritage walks, street food, and cultural performances across the city.
  • Chennai is ideal for families, friends, solo travellers, and short holidays.
  • Planning your trip becomes easier with an Insta Personal Loan, which can help manage travel expenses such as transport, hotel stays, food, and sightseeing without delay.
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Why Chennai should be on your travel list in 2026

Chennai is one of India’s most culturally rich and fast-growing cities, offering a balanced travel experience.


  • Famous for Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world.
  • Rich in South Indian temple architecture and cultural heritage.
  • Home to museums, colonial buildings, and historical forts.
  • Popular for authentic South Indian cuisine and filter coffee.
  • Well-connected city with easy access to nearby tourist destinations.

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich culture, historic temples, sandy beaches, and modern lifestyle. It offers a unique mix of tradition and urban experiences. From spiritual sites and colonial landmarks to busy shopping streets and peaceful seaside views, Chennai provides something for every traveller visiting in 2026.


Plan your journey easily with a personal loan for travel to manage transport, accommodation, sightseeing, and other travel-related expenses. Check your pre-approved loan offer with phone number and OTP → Apply online in 5 minutes → Get funds in 30 minutes*.

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Best things to do in Chennai

Chennai offers a wide range of attractions that include beaches, temples, museums, and cultural landmarks.

1. Visit Marina Beach

Marina Beach is one of Chennai’s most iconic attractions and a must-visit spot for travellers. It stretches for several kilometres along the Bay of Bengal and is perfect for morning walks, evening relaxation, and street food experiences. The beach becomes lively in the evenings with local vendors and families enjoying the coastal breeze.

 

2. Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a famous Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its colourful gopuram and intricate carvings, it attracts both devotees and tourists interested in architecture and spirituality. The temple surroundings also offer traditional markets and cultural experiences.

 

3. Visit Fort St. George

Fort St. George is one of the oldest British forts in India. It now houses a museum showcasing colonial artefacts, letters, and historical exhibits. Visitors can learn about Chennai’s colonial history and explore well-preserved architecture.

 

4. Explore Government Museum

The Government Museum in Chennai is one of the oldest museums in India. It features archaeological artefacts, bronze sculptures, coins, and art collections. It is ideal for history lovers and students.

 

5. Walk around San Thome Basilica

San Thome Basilica is a beautiful church built over the tomb of Saint Thomas. It features Gothic-style architecture and peaceful interiors, making it a popular spiritual and tourist attraction.

 

6. Enjoy Elliot’s Beach

Elliot’s Beach, also known as Besant Nagar Beach, is quieter than Marina Beach. It is ideal for relaxing walks, cafés nearby, and peaceful sunsets.


Plan a short One-day Trip from Chennai to explore nearby coastal and heritage destinations easily. Check your pre-approved loan offer with phone number and OTP → Apply online in 5 minutes → Get funds in 30 minutes*.

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Fun things to do in Chennai with friends

Chennai offers plenty of exciting experiences for groups of friends, from beaches and cafés to entertainment hubs and adventure activities.


  • Spend an evening at Marina Beach or Elliot's Beach enjoying local snacks and sea views.
  • Explore Express Avenue Mall or Phoenix Marketcity for shopping, gaming, and dining.
  • Visit VGP Universal Kingdom for thrilling amusement rides.
  • Enjoy bowling, arcade games, and escape rooms at indoor entertainment centres.
  • Try Chennai's famous street food and café culture around Besant Nagar and Mylapore.
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What are the best experiences to have in Chennai?

A trip to Chennai is complete when you experience its rich culture, coastal beauty, and authentic cuisine.


  • Watch the sunrise at Marina Beach.
  • Attend a classical Carnatic music or Bharatanatyam performance.
  • Taste authentic South Indian dishes like dosa, idli, and filter coffee.
  • Visit historic temples, churches, and museums.
  • Shop for silk sarees, handicrafts, and souvenirs in T. Nagar and local markets.
  • Explore the city's heritage through guided walks.
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Plan your Chennai trip with Bajaj Finance

Managing your travel expenses becomes easier with flexible financing options.


  • Cover accommodation, transport, sightseeing, shopping, and dining expenses.
  • Avoid disturbing your regular savings while planning your holiday.
  • Benefit from quick approval and minimal documentation.
  • Choose a repayment tenure that suits your financial needs.
  • Apply online for an Insta Personal Loan to conveniently manage your Chennai travel expenses.
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Chennai offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, beaches, shopping, and delicious cuisine. Whether travelling with family or friends, the city provides memorable experiences throughout the year.
 

  • Visit iconic beaches and heritage landmarks.
  • Experience authentic South Indian culture and food.
  • Enjoy shopping, entertainment, and cultural performances.
  • Consider an Insta Personal Loan to conveniently manage your travel-related expenses.
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Key offerings: 3 loan types

Personal loan interest rate and applicable charges

Type of fee

Applicable charges

Rate of interest per annum

10% to 30% p.a.

Processing fees

Up to 3.93% of the loan amount (inclusive of applicable taxes).

Flexi Facility Charge

Term Loan – Not applicable

Flexi Loans –Up To Rs 1,999 To Up To Rs 18,999/- (Inclusive Of Applicable Taxes)

Will be deducted upfront from loan amount.

Bounce charges

Rs. 700 to Rs. 1,200/- per bounce

“Bounce charges” shall mean charges for (i) dishonor of any payment instrument; or (ii) non-payment of instalment (s) on their respective due dates due to dishonor of payment mandate or non-registration of the payment mandate or any other reason.

Part-prepayment charges

Full Pre-payment:

  • Term Loan: Up to 4.72% (Inclusive of applicable taxes) on the outstanding loan amount as on the date of full pre-payment

  • Flexi Term (Dropline) Loan: Up to 4.72% (Inclusive of applicable taxes) on the outstanding loan amount, as on the date of full prepayment.

  • Flexi Hybrid Term Loan: Up to 4.72% (Inclusive of applicable taxes) on the outstanding loan amount, as on the date of full prepayment.

Part Pre-payment

  • Up to 4.72% (Inclusive of applicable taxes) of the principal amount of Loan prepaid on the date of such part Pre-Payment.

  • Not Applicable for Flexi Term (Dropline) Loan and Flexi Hybrid Term Loan.

Penal charge

Delay in payment of instalment(s) shall attract Penal Charge at the rate of up to 36% per annum per instalment from the respective due date until the date of receipt of the full instalment(s) amount.

Stamp duty (as per respective state)

Payable as per state laws and deducted upfront from loan amount.

Annual maintenance charges

Term Loan: Not applicable

Flexi Term (Dropline) Loan:

Up to 0.295% (Inclusive of applicable taxes) of the Dropline limit (as per the repayment schedule) on the date of levy of such charges.


Flexi Hybrid Term Loan:

Up to 0.472% (Inclusive Of Applicable Taxes) Of The Dropline Limit During Initial Tenure. Up to 0.295% (Inclusive Of Applicable Taxes) Of Dropline Limit During Subsequent Tenure

Credit guarantee scheme feeUp to 1.18% p.a. (pro-rated daily till 31st March) (inclusive of all applicable taxes) of the loan amount
Credit guarantee scheme renewal feeUp to 1.18% p.a. (inclusive of all applicable taxes) on the outstanding loan amount as on April 01 of the subsequent Financial Year.
*Renewal Fee to be collected only for 3 subsequent financial years.
 
**If the Remaining Tenure is less than 12 months, the CG Fee in subsequent years shall be charged prorated.

Disclaimer

Bajaj Finance Limited has the sole and absolute discretion, without assigning any reason to accept or reject any application. Terms and conditions apply*.
For customer support, call Personal Loan IVR: 7757 000 000