Things To Do In Chennai With Friends For A Memorable Vacation

Outside view shows the ancient look of the Egmore museum showing the great wealthy heritage.

Chennai is a lively city filled with fun and exciting activities for you and your friends. There are many things to do in Chennai with friends whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or just a great time together,You can explore beautiful beaches, visit historic temples, or enjoy delicious local food. If you’re planning the best things to do in Chennai, don’t miss out on its vibrant markets and parks. There are also many unique things to see in Chennai that showcase its diverse heritage and make Chennai a must-visit place once in a lifetime.

Top 10 Best Things To Do In Chennai

Here is a list of the top 10 things to do in Chennai with friends for a memorable experience.

1. Visit The Marina Beach

Relaxing at the serene Marina Beach, is one of the best things to do in Chennai with friends.

Photo: Socrates veeramani / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Marina Beach is one of the most famous places to visit in Chennai. This long sandy beach is perfect for spending a day with friends. You can stroll along the shore, enjoy local snacks from street vendors, or just sit and chat while listening to the waves. Watching the sunset here is a must-do, as it offers stunning views. There are also various attractions like statues and parks nearby, making it one of the top things to see in Chennai. It’s a lively spot that captures the essence of the city!

Ideal Duration: 2-4 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7

2. Explore The Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Stunning architecture of Kapaleeswarar Temple, one of the things to do in Chennai with friends.

Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Mylapore. This temple features beautiful Dravidian architecture, colourful sculptures, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can explore the beautifully carved entrance and take part in the rituals held throughout the day. It’s a great place to learn about Tamil culture and spirituality which makes it one of the best things to do in Chennai with friends. The temple’s vibrant festivals are also an exciting experience for visitors where you can take part in special prayers and rituals. This is considered to be the best time to connect with spirituality.

Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM

3. Discover The Government Museum

Artefacts on display at the Government Museum, one of the best things to do in Chennai with friends.

Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Government Museum in Chennai has a great collection of history and art. It features a wide range of exhibits, including ancient sculptures, bronze items, and archaeological findings. You and your friends can spend hours exploring the different galleries and learning about Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage. The museum is not only educational but also visually captivating, making it one of the top things to see in Chennai for those interested in culture. Don’t forget to check out the museum’s beautiful gardens!

Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fees: ₹15 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Fridays)

4. Take A Trip To The Valluvar Kottam

Valluvar Kottam monument, a unique attraction and one of the things to do in Chennai with friends.

Photo: Panoshaf / Wikimedia Commons

Valluvar Kottam is a monument dedicated to the famous Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar. The structure is designed like a temple and showcases intricate carvings of his couplets. It is surrounded by a lush garden, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk with friends. The peaceful atmosphere and the cultural significance of this site make it one of the top things to do in Chennai for anyone interested in literature and history. It’s a place that inspires and educates visitors.

Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fees: ₹10
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

5. Enjoy Shopping At T. Nagar

Bustling T. Nagar market, one of the best things to do in Chennai for shopping enthusiasts.

Photo: Mick Latter / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

T. Nagar is a famous shopping district in Chennai, famous for its saree shops and jewellery stores. You and your friends can explore the vibrant markets, bargain for unique items, and try local street food. Which gives you an unique experience of Chennai.The lively atmosphere and colourful shops make it an enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for traditional clothes or modern fashion, T. Nagar offers something for everyone. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Chennai for shopping lovers.

Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7

6. Experience The Theosophical Society

Beautiful gardens of Theosophical Society, one of the tourist attractions in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Photo: Aleksandr Zykov / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Theosophical Society is a peaceful retreat located in Adyar. You can explore its dense green beauty and can visit the stunning Adyar Banyan Tree, and enjoy the soothing environment. This is a great place for a relaxed day with friends, away from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can also learn about the society’s history and its focus on spirituality and education. This amazing spot is certainly one of the best things to do in Chennai for those seeking peace.

Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

7. Visit The Snake Park

Witness the fascinating reptiles at the Snake Park, one of the famous tourist spots in Chennai.

Photo: SeppH / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

The Snake Park in Chennai is a unique attraction where you can learn about various species of snakes and reptiles. With your friends, you can observe these fascinating creatures up close. The park is dedicated to conservation and education, making it a great place for animal lovers. Guided tours provide interesting information about the snakes and their habitats, making it one of the best things to do in Chennai for a fun and informative outing. It’s both exciting and educational.

Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fees: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM

8. Relax At The Besant Nagar Beach

Sunset view at Besant Nagar Beach, a peaceful spot among the top tourist attarctions in Chennai.

Photo: Abishek k / Unsplash

Besant Nagar Beach is a beautiful place to relax and unwind with friends. This beach offers a calm atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a day out. You can sit on the sand, enjoy local snacks from nearby stalls, or take a peaceful walk along the shore. The beach is also famous for its stunning sunsets, making it a romantic spot to end the day. Visiting this beach is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Chennai for those who love nature and relaxation.

Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7

9. Explore Fort St. George

Learn something about the history and India’s great heritage at the historical Fort St. George.

Photo: George John Edkins / Wikimedia Commons

Fort St. George is a historic fort that was built in the 17th century and is one of the most important places in Chennai. You can explore its museum, which displays artefacts from the colonial era, and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the fort itself. This site offers a glimpse into the city’s history, making it one of the best things to do in Chennai for history buffs. The fort’s gardens are also lovely for a walk. This place is best for those who want to learn something about the history and India’s great heritage.

Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Entry Fees: ₹100 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

10. Enjoy A Meal At Murugan Idli Shop

Delicious South Indian cuisine at Murugan Idli Shop, a popular dining choice in Chennai.

Photo: Harikrishnan N / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Murugan Idli Shop is famous for its delicious South Indian cuisine, especially its idlis and dosas. You and your friends can enjoy a hearty meal at this popular eatery, known for its cosy atmosphere and friendly service. The menu offers a variety of traditional dishes, making it one of the top things to do in Chennai for food lovers. Trying the flavorful chutneys that accompany the dishes is a must! This dining experience will surely be a highlight of your trip!

Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 7 AM – 11 PM

These places offer a variety of things to do in Chennai with friends to enjoy together. From relaxing at Marina Beach to exploring historical sites like Fort St. George, there’s something for everyone. You can try delicious South Indian food or learn about culture at local temples and museums. These things in Chennai will create wonderful memories. Plan a trip with TripXL for an adventure for a great experience!

Cover Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

When in Chennai, you should try local dishes like dosa, idli, sambar, and filter coffee. These are popular and delicious!
Yes, getting around Chennai is easy. You can use public transport like buses and trains or hire auto-rickshaws and cabs for convenience.
It's good to pack light, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle, especially if you plan to explore outdoors.
Yes, Chennai offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Yes, Chennai has several night markets and lively areas like T. Nagar and Pondy Bazaar where you can shop and enjoy street food after sunset.

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