Fort St. George: Built by the East India Company in 1639-1640, the fort marks the beginning of Madras as a modern city. It was one of the first bastions of British Power in India. Today the fort is used by the state legislative assembly and as the secretarial offices of the Tamil Nadu government.
Fort Museum: This museum contains many relics pertaining to the tenure of the East India Company and British India. Besides, it has a collection of contemporary paintings as well.
Kapaleeswarar Temple: The temple is the biggest in the city and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple contains inscriptions dating back to the 13th century AD, and is a fine specimen of the Dravidian style of architecture. The 37 metre gopuram is especially noteworthy for its intricate carvings depicting tales from Hindu mythology.
Sri Parthasarathy Temple: This temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, was built in the 8th century AD under the patronage of the Pallavas. It houses the idols of the five avataras of Sri Vishnu and has a small temple shrine dedicated to Vishnu's consort called Vedavalli Ammai in this part of the country.
Santome Cathedral: Though Madras is predominantly populated by Hindus, it has several fine monuments and places of worship connected to the Christian faith. The Santhome cathedral was built by the Portuguese between the 14th and the 15 century AD and derives its name after St. Thomas. To this day it continues to be an important place of pilgrimage for the Christian community in the country and is also historically important
Little Mount Shrine: This shrine is said to be built at the site where the St. Thomas lived and preached from a small cave.
St. Thomas Mount: Situated near the Airport, the small hillock is believed to be the place where the apostle was killed by his assassins.
St. Mary's Church: This is the oldest Anglican church in Asia. The imposing white edifice was consecrated in 1679AD, and.continues to be an important place of worship.
The Snake Park and Children's Park: The snake park will interest visitors of all ages. It houses a variety of Indian snakes and reptiles which can be viewed from close quarters.
Adjescent to the snake park is a children's park which has a large playing ground and collection of birds and animals.
The Marina Beach: Lining the east of the city is the famous Marina Beach. This is supposed to be the second longest beach in the world and runs to a length of 12 km. The beach can be ideally visited in the early mornings or in the late evenings when the area becomes a virtual fair ground; with food stalls and other entertainment.
The Theosophical Society: Madras is also the fountainhead of the theosophical movement which spread worldwide. The Theosophical Society is located along the Adyar River. Discourses are conducted here under a huge banyan tree which spreads to almost 40,000 sq. ft. of area. It is open from 8 am and 11 am and 2 pm to 5 pm on Mondays to Fridays and from 8 am to 11 am on Saturdays.
Kalakshetra: Founded by Rukmini Devi Arundale in 1936 the institution is devoted to the revival of traditional dance, textile designing, and weaving which are taught in naturally harmonious environs. Visitors may fix an appointment with the concerned authorities prior to the visit.
Birla Planetarium: This modern planetarium houses a fully computerised projector to depict the skies. It is situated at Kotturpuram in the city.
National Art Gallery and Government Museum: The museums situated in the heart of the city at Egmore were founded in 1857. It houses various sections on geology, archaeology, numismatics, anthropology, botany and zoology. There is also a fine collection of sculpture and armoury in the museum. It is open on all days except Fridays from 8 am to 5 pm.
Anna Square: The mortal remains of Dr. C.N. Annadurai, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu was buried at the Anna Square which is at the northern end of the Marina Beach.
Aquarium: The aquarium located at the Marina beach is open from 14.00 to 20.00 hours on weekdays and between 10.00 to 12.00 hours and 12.00 to 18.00 hours on Sundays.
Elliot's Beach: This beach is comparatively quieter and an ideal place to go sea bathing. It is located near Besant Nagar.
Valluvar Kottam: Erected in memory of the poet saint Thiruvalluvar, the shrine at Nungambakkam is constructed after the temple car of Thiruvarur. The place also has a large auditorium.
Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur): Situated about 3() km from the city, the zoological park is spread over an area of 510 hectares. It is open from 08.00 to 15.00 hours on all days except Tuesday.
Amusement Parks around Madras: Dash 'N Splash, Kishkintha, Little Foolks, MGM's Dizee World and VGP Golden Beach