Planning a family vacation in Chennai? Here is a list of things to do with your family

Located in the south-eastern tip of the Indian sub-continent, Chennai is popularly known as the “Textile City of India”. Historically served as a port city for the British East India Company, Chennai was one of the largest ports situated on the Bay of Bengal. Post-independence the place was regarded as one of the frontiers for the industrial revolution in South India. Modern-day Chennai is among the busiest and most populated cities in the country. Every year more than 3 million people visit this great city to get a taste of its luxurious culture and heritage.

A hub of rich culture, learning, mouthwatering cuisines, natural beauty, and modern infrastructural marvels, this port city has a lot to offer. Read on to get a comprehensive view of 7 things that you and your family can plan while visiting the Textile City of India. But make sure to pre-book your accommodations at any of the hotels in Chennai, as per budget to avoid the last-minute rush.

Explore the native cuisine of Chennai

Native Tamil cuisine is a fusion of Malayali, Persian, and other south-Indian preparations. Starting from dosa and vada to French crepes and Full English breakfast you will find everything in Chennai. Being a vegetarian state most dishes in native Tamil cuisine are free from any meat and eggs, but don’t get fooled by the name. They taste way better than what you might expect.

Dosa, idli, sambar and rasam rice, kuzhi paniyaram, and pongal are some of the native dishes that Chennai has to offer. Among the fusion must-tries liver stew, chicken chettinad, kothu parotta, and nethili fry are the best. And don’t forget to wash it all down with locally sourced coffee or coconut mocktails.

Spending time at the Marina Beach

Nothing beats spending time at the most popular tourist destination of Chennai, the Marina beach. It stretches for a distance of 13 km dotted with natural beauty. The nightlife at Marina beach is undoubtedly one of the best experiences you can have. The place often hosts music fests, seaside fairs, camps, and other adventure sports. Some of the most famous hotels in Chennai are situated along the coastline of the beach.

Best time to visit:- Anytime you fancy.

Nearby attractions:– Senate House, MGR Memorial, Icehouse, and Anna Square.

Shopping at Pondy Bazar

Thinking about shopping? Then you have to look no further than Pondy Bazar. Located in T.Nagar, Pondy Bazar is the largest open market in the city. From exclusive handicrafts to famous native textile products, tech products, and souvenirs. You will find it all in Pondy Bazar.

Best time to visit:- During the evening.

Best stores for shopping:- Sarvana Stores, Naidu Hall, and Ratna Commercials.

Strolling by the Theosophical Society’s Huddleston Garden

If you are a nature lover this place will obviously attract you. Spread across a massive 260 acres of land Theosophical Society’s Huddleston Garden is the largest botanical garden of Tamil Nadu. Located in Adyar, this man-made natural marvel is a perfect place to enjoy and make memories with your family.

Popular attraction:- The 450-year-old Banyan tree and cultural programs that happen every weekend.

Open from:- 9:00 a.m. to 5:30p.m.

Entry Fee:- NIL.

Dive in the stunning beauty of Chennai’s famous Temples

South India is famous for its temples and Chennai itself has more than 30 temples spread across the whole city. Some of the most prominent among them are Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Ashtalakshmi Temple, etc. Each of these marvels dates back thousands of years and serves as the cultural and religious backbone of Chennai.

Most popular temples:– Kapaleeshwarar Temple(Mylapore), Ashtalakshmi Temple(Besant Nagar), Shree Ramanatheeswarar Temple(Porur), and Arunmigu Murandeeswarar Temple(W-Tank Street)

Open from:– Most of the temples remain open between 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Experience the great history of Chennai at its Museum

Museums are like a time machine that takes us back ages. Chennai houses some of the oldest museums of India, which were all build during the colonial era. Museums in Chennai house some of the rarest archaeological collections along with Roman and Asian antiquities. If you are looking for a place that everyone in your family would enjoy, then the museums are your way to go.

Most popular museums:- Government Museum(Egmore), Vivekananda House(Triplicane), Dakshinachitra Museum(Muttukadu), Fort St. George(Rajaji Salai Road), and Cholamandalam Artists Village(Injambakkam)

Open from:- Most museums remain open between 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Go on a safari at Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Located in Vandalur the Arignar Anna Zoological Park is 602 hectares of natural heaven which hosts more than 2600 animals in their natural habitat. This zoo is also home to some of the rarest breeds of flora and fauna. Thus, if you want a little adventure Arignar Anna Zoological Park is the most appropriate choice.

Popular Attractions:– Lion and Deer Safari, White Tigers, Spotted Southern Cobra, etc.

Open from:- 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Entry Fee:- Children – Rs. 60, Adults – Rs. 100.

And here is a list of 7 things to do in Chennai, during your next family trip. Make sure to get the hotel bookings done online in advance. You can also visit the website of Intermiles to avail of extra facilities and assured rewards.