14 Best Sightseeing Places to Visit in Chennai for 1 Day Outing
"Sleep, eat, work, repeat." Sounds like your routine? Well, then this is an indication that you need a break. Chennai is a good place to just take a one-day break from everything and transport yourself to a place where you have time to breathe, to feel every moment, giving yourself the chance to immerse in a peaceful and enriching experience. Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is a vibrant city in the southern part of India with a rich cultural heritage and a variety of attractions to explore. Although one day outing in Chennai isn't enough to cover all that this city has to offer, in this blog, we will help you figure out the top places to visit in Chennai in 1 day to get the most out of your time. Your secret trick to a successful 1 day plan in Chennai includes a good strategy and a budget-friendly hotel to stay. Upar Hotels is the best hotel in Chennai to make your one day sightseeing in Chennai a memorable experience.
The secret sauce to a successful one-day trip to Chennai includes a good plan and a convenient place to stay. Upar Hotels is the best hotel in Chennai to make your trip a memorable one.
Beautiful Sightseeing Places to Visit in Chennai in One Day
1. Marina Beach
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world or you can even immerse yourself in the beauty of the sunset in the evening. The leisurely walk along the shore and sea breeze make it one of the best places to visit in Chennai in 1 day.
Location: Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Entry Fee: No Fee
Best Time to Visit: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 12:00 PM
2. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is the best place to visit in Chennai in one day with family especially due to its spiritual significance. The stunning Dravidian architecture, vibrant atmosphere, the temple's intricate design and the rituals that take place here offer a unique cultural experience, making it an ideal thing to do in Chennai in one day.
Location: Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM; 04:00 PM to 09:30 PM
Entry Fee: No Fee
Best Time to Visit: Early in the morning to avoid crowd
There are many more must-visit temples in Chennai. For your next trip remember to stop by these 6 oldest temples in Chennai.
3. Santhome Basilica
Santhome Basilica is a must-visit place in Chennai on a 1-day trip for its historical and religious significance. This is definitely an easy place to visit in Chennai in 1 day as you can explore the Basilica's majestic architecture and serene ambience, and then continue your Chennai adventure with other nearby attractions.
Location: 38, Santhome High Rd, Dummingkuppam, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings:06:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Entry Fee: No Fee
4. Government Museum and National Art Gallery
Appreciation is important to reinforce a sense of positivity in your life when you feel stuck or hopeless. Visiting the Government Museum and National Art Gallery in Chennai will help you do just that with its region's art, history and culture. You can include this stop in your one-day visit to Chennai by allocating a couple of hours late in the morning to explore it fully.
Location: Pantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 09.30 AM to 05.00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Entry Fee:
Indians: ₹15 per adult and ₹10 per kid below 12 yrs
Foreigners: ₹250
5. Fort St. George
To visit Fort St. George in Chennai in one day, start your journey here to explore its historical significance, museums, and colonial architecture. It's an ideal place to visit in Chennai in one day with family and friends, offering a blend of educational and recreational experiences.
Location: Rajaji Salai, Near Legislature and Secretariat, Fort St George, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 09.00 AM to 05.00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Entry Fee:
Indians: ₹5 per person
Foreigners: ₹5 per person
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and mornings
6. Chennai High Court
Chennai High Court is one of the best places for a one-day outing in Chennai because of its stunning Indo-Saracenic and rich history. It offers a glimpse into the city's legal system and rich heritage. A brief visit to the Chennai High Court is recommended to carry a unique experience back home.
Location: High Ct Rd, Parry's Corner, George Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Entry Fee: No Fee
7. Vivekananda House
Vivekananda House, where Swami Vivekananda stayed, is one of the best places to visit in Chennai in 1 day. Explore this museum to learn about the life and teachings of this revered spiritual leader and gain insight into the essence of his philosophy. It's a place that offers a profound and thought-provoking experience for visitors of all backgrounds.
Location: Kamarajar Salai, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 03:00 PM to 07:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹10 per kid and ₹20 per adult
8. Valluvar Kottam
Valluvar Kottam is a popular place to visit in Chennai in 1 day, honouring the classical Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar. Its significance lies in the stupendous stone monument dedicated to his work, the Thirukkural. It's an educational and cultural stop suitable for those looking for places to visit in Chennai with family in one day, offering insights into Tamil literature and heritage.
Location: Tirumurthy Nagar, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 08.30 AM to 05.30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings and winter to enjoy the pleasant weather while exploring
Looking for a budget hotel in Nungambakkam? Book your stay with Upar Hotels in Nungambakkam and enjoy your trip at ease with all the luxurious amenities and facilities.
9. Thousand Lights Mosque
Thousand Lights Mosque is a notable place in Chennai to visit in one day with family to learn about its historical significance and appreciate its architectural beauty. Including this mosque in your plan of “one-day trip places in Chennai” will allow you a glimpse into the city's cultural diversity and heritage, creating a well-rounded experience for all members of the family.
Location: Royapettah, Peter's Rd, Peters Colony, Thousand Lights, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: No Fee
10. Phoenix Market City
Phoenix Market City is one of the top destinations for one-day sightseeing in Chennai, boasting the distinction of being one of the largest malls in the city. Visitors can expect a diverse range of shopping options, dining experiences, entertainment, and even art installations. It's a one-stop destination offering a mix of retail therapy, culinary delights, and entertainment for a memorable one-day outing in Chennai.
Location: Velachery Rd, Indira Gandhi Nagar, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: No Fee
11. Guindy National Park
Guindy National Park is among the top places to visit in Chennai for a one-day nature retreat. Apart from the lush greenery, serene lakes, and diverse wildlife you can also enjoy bird-watching, picnicking, and guided nature walks, making it an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts and families.
Location: Rangeguindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per adult and ₹5 per kid
Book your stay with Upar Hotels in Ashok Nagar and access all the city's popular tourist places.
12. Birla Planetarium
Birla Planetarium offers an enriching experience for those seeking one-day sightseeing in Chennai. Devote a couple of hours to exploring its fascinating astronomy exhibits and captivating sky shows. You will be spellbound by how there is so much to explore about the universe.
Location: Gandhi Mandapam Rd, Duraisamy Nagar, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for kids
13. MGR Film City
MGR Film City is a sprawling cinematic haven, making it a fantastic place for a one-day Chennai trip with family and friends. Covering over 70 acres, it provides a glimpse into the world of Indian cinema with film sets, studios, and engaging exhibits. Visitors can explore the magic of filmmaking, from iconic movie sets to taking a tour of the studios, creating unforgettable memories.
Location: Kazhikundram, Tharamani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 08:00 AM to 08:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25
Chennai is a land of beauty and enjoyment. Visit these popular picnic spots in Chennai the next time you plan a trip here with your family.
14. Semmozhi Poonga
Semmozhi Poonga is a serene botanical garden that should be on your one-day plan in Chennai, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Stroll through lush landscapes, themed gardens, and a variety of plant species, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and families. Enjoy a peaceful time at this park in the evening to fully appreciate the natural beauty on display.
Location: Ellaiamman Colony, Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 10:00 AM to 07:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: ₹15
Best Time to Visit: Evenings
Book yourself a room with Upar Hotels in T. Nagar to stay near the popular attractions spot and enjoy your trip without having to spend most of your time travelling across the city.
Conclusion
Exploring the best places to visit in Chennai in 1 day is like diving into a treasure trove of experiences. Despite the time constraints, Chennai offers a plethora of sights and experiences to savour. From the awe-inspiring Kapaleeshwarar Temple to the serene Marina Beach and the vibrant Semmozhi Poonga, each destination we've explored provides a glimpse into the soul of this dynamic metropolis. Whether you're drawn to the rich heritage, the delicious South Indian cuisine, or the vibrant arts scene, there are some of the famous places to visit in Chennai in 1 day to gain a variety of experiences.
For an unforgettable one-day trip to Chennai, a perfect stay is essential. Experience the best of the city with Upar Hotels – your gateway to comfort and convenience. Book your room now with Upar Hotels and make your Chennai adventure extraordinary! You can also check out other blogs to know more about travelling.