Explore Chennai’s Culture, Coast & Heritage - Best Tourist Places in Chennai

Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu, is a metropolis steeped in rich heritage, offering a pulsating culture and a diverse array of captivating attractions. The city expertly balances centuries-old tradition with dynamic modern life, offering something for every traveller.
From historic landmarks such as Fort St. George and the Government Museum, to natural escapes like Marina Beach and green spaces, and a lively social and cultural scene shaped by temples, music, art, markets and local cuisine, Chennai truly offers experiences for every interest.
Whether you’re seeking must-visit places in Chennai or must-see places in Chennai, The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road provides the perfect, centrally located base to experience it all.
 

Must-Visit Places in Chennai - Places That Echo Heritage


Kapaleeswarar Temple: Located in the historic neighbourhood of Mylapore, Kapaleeswarar Temple is one of Chennai’s most revered spiritual landmarks. Situated approximately 3 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its classic Dravidian architecture and vibrant religious life.
 

  • Historic Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
  • Famous for its colourful, towering gopuram adorned with intricate carvings
  • A major centre for daily rituals, spiritual gatherings, and traditional ceremonies
  • Especially lively during festivals such as Panguni Peruvizha and Pradosham

Exterior of a temple in ancient architectural style under the sky.
Exterior of an old building with trees under the sky.

Santhome Cathedral Basilica: Situated in Santhome, close to Chennai’s coastline, the Santhome Cathedral Basilica lies about 3.5 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road. This iconic church is a major religious and heritage site, known for its deep historical and spiritual significance.
 
  • The Neo-Gothic cathedral is believed to be built over the tomb of St Thomas the Apostle
  • One of the very few churches in the world constructed over an apostle’s burial site
  • Features stunning stained glass windows and a serene interior
  • An important Christian pilgrimage destination and heritage monument
  • A symbol of Chennai’s rich colonial and religious history

Government Museum & National Art Gallery: Located in Egmore, about 7 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road, this museum complex is a must-visit for history and art lovers. It is among the oldest museums in India and offers deep insight into South Indian heritage.
 

  • Established in 1851, making it one of India’s oldest museum complexes
  • Spread across 6 buildings with 46 galleries
  • Houses rare South Indian artefacts, bronze sculptures, and art collections
  • Showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture and heritage structures
  • A key destination for cultural, historical, and academic exploration

Old multi-storey architectural building with open balconies on three sides.
Exterior view of a old building with brick like design.

Fort St. George: Located near Chennai Port, Fort St. George is approximately 10 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road. This historic fort marks the beginning of British rule in the city and remains an important administrative and cultural site.
 

  • Built in 1644, signalling the Start of British presence in Chennai
  • Houses a museum displaying colonial artefacts, documents, and uniforms
  • Still functions as an active administrative complex today
  • Offers valuable insight into the East India Company and colonial history
  • One of Chennai’s most significant historical landmarks

Nature and Modernity: Must-see Places in Chennai


Beyond the core heritage sites, Chennai offers unique retreats into nature and contemporary entertainment, confirming its Status as a city with a diverse range of places for tourists to explore. Find the must-visit places in Chennai which bring out the preserved soul of the city.
Theosophical Society & Adyar Banyan Tree: Set amidst lush greenery in Adyar, around 5 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road, this peaceful retreat is known for its spiritual ambience and natural heritage.
 

  • Home to the Adyar Banyan Tree, believed to be over 400 years old
  • One of the largest banyan trees in the world spreads across several acres
  • Located within the serene campus of the Theosophical Society
  • Ideal for quiet walks, reflection, and nature appreciation
  • A unique blend of spirituality, ecology, and heritage
     

Old tree with spread out branches amidst the woods in greenery.
Deers in a group walking along surrounded by greenery.

Guindy National Park: Situated close to the city centre, Guindy National Park lies about 5 km from The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road. It is a rare example of protected wildlife existing within a bustling urban environment.
 

  • One of the smallest national parks in India
  • Features a wildlife sanctuary with deer, birds, and native flora
  • Includes an adjacent snake park
  • Ideal for family-friendly visits and nature walks
  • A refreshing green escape within the city

Phoenix Marketcity: Located in Velachery, approximately 8 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road, Phoenix Marketcity is Chennai’s premier destination for shopping and entertainment.
 

  • One of the city’s largest and most modern shopping malls
  • Offers high-end retail outlets and international brands
  • Wide range of dining options, cafes, and food courts
  • Multiplex cinemas and entertainment zones
  • A contemporary contrast to Chennai’s historical attractions

Interior of a shopping mall with crowd roaming around, decorations and escalators in the background.
Sun getting down over the waves along the sea shore.

Marina Beach: Stretching along the Bay of Bengal, Marina Beach is located around 6 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road. It is one of the city’s most popular public spaces and a defining feature of Chennai’s coastal identity.
 

  • India’s second-longest urban beach
  • Popular for morning walks, evening Strolls, and sunset views
  • Known for its local Street food Stalls and vibrant atmosphere
  • Home to landmarks such as the lighthouse and historic Statues
  • A lively reflection of everyday life and culture in Chennai

Why Staying at The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road, is Ideal


Choosing The Raintree provides maximum benefit for your sightseeing itinerary. The hotel’s prime location in the affluent Alwarpet neighbourhood is central, ensuring you are just minutes away from virtually every listed attraction.

Exterior view of hotel building surrounded by greenery at The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road.
Lounge with sofas, chairs, and large windows at The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road.

The experience is defined by:

Elements of a Promising Stay: The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road, offers a wide range of facilities and dining options designed to enhance every stay. Guests can enjoy signature dining experiences across multiple in-house restaurants, including the popular rooftop venue.

Alongside dining, the hotel features well-equipped leisure and business facilities such as a fitness centre, swimming pool, meeting and banquet spaces, and attentive concierge services, all delivered with a strong commitment to comfort, safety and warm hospitality for a seamless Chennai experience

  Accommodations Which Go Beyond the Standard: The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road offers 5 categories of thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, including Deluxe Rooms, Club Rooms, Executive Suites, the Presidential Suite and The Apartment, catering to both short and extended stays.

All accommodations are equipped with modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable bedding, workspaces, flat-screen televisions and well-appointed bathrooms, while select categories offer additional privileges like happy hour access, airport transfers and extra living space, ensuring a comfortable and seamless Stay for every guest

Seamless Access: The hotel provides extremely easy transport links to major city points.
 

  • Chennai International Airport: Located approximately 14 km from The Raintree, St Mary’s Road, the airport is reachable in about 40–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic, making arrivals and departures convenient for both domestic and international travellers.
  • Chennai Central Railway Station: One of the city’s main rail hubs, Chennai Central is around 7 km from the hotel and offers excellent connectivity to major cities across India.
  • Chennai Egmore Railway Station: Situated about 6 km away, Egmore Station primarily serves long-distance and regional trains, providing easy access for intercity travel.
  • CMBT (Koyambedu Bus Terminus): Chennai’s largest bus terminal is approximately 11 km from the hotel, connecting travellers to destinations across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring States.

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The Raintree, St Mary’s Road, brings together comfort, convenience and thoughtful hospitality to create a truly complete Chennai Stay. With spacious rooms, well-crafted dining experiences, a central Alwarpet location and facilities suited for both leisure and business, every detail is designed to make your visit smooth and enjoyable. Whether you are exploring the city’s culture, attending meetings or simply unwinding, The Raintree offers a balanced and memorable Stay experience from Start to finish.

FAQs


1. Is it easy to get transport from The Raintree to the major tourist sites?
Yes, the hotel is centrally located with excellent taxi and public transport connectivity, and the travel desk can efficiently arrange car rentals and local transport.

2. How far is the hotel from the famous Kapaleeswarar Temple?
The hotel is strategically located just around 3 km from the Kapaleeswarar Temple, making it one of the must-visit places in Chennai that is easily accessible.

3. What kind of dining options are available after a day of sightseeing?
The hotel features multiple esteemed dining outlets, including Colony (multi-cuisine buffet), Chap Chay (Asian Stir-fry), and Above Sea Level (rooftop fine dining).

4. Is the Guindy National Park suitable for a family visit with small children?
Yes, Guindy National Park and the adjacent Snake Park are excellent, contained destinations that are highly suitable and educational for families with small children.

5. What is the best way to get to Marina Beach from the hotel?
Marina Beach is only about 6 km away, and taking a taxi or auto-rickshaw is the quickest and most straightforward way to travel from the hotel near Mylapore, Chennai.

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