Picture yourself going along a beach that just goes on and on, with golden sand, blue water, and green palm trees? A beach that affords you a multitude of activities, say, sightseeing, dining, shopping, and partying? A beach that has witnessed the significant events of India's history and culture? If so, then a trip to Marina Beach Chennai should be on your bucket list.
Marina Beach is a natural urban beach that stretches along the Bay of Bengal for approximately 13 km, making it one of the longest and most crowded beaches in the world. It is also the most visited tourist destination in Chennai, which is why it gets over a million visitors every year. In case you are a person who seeks relaxation, fun, or cultural immersion, Marina Beach is the place that will fulfill your desires.
Chennai Marina Beach History
Marina Beach is a place that boasts a rich and interesting past going back to the 1800s. It was a project by the British governor of Madras (now Chennai), Sir Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant Duff, who was interested in having a promenade built along the coast that would be used by the people of the city. He gave it a name derived from the Italian word “marina”, which means “shore” or “coast”.
After a short time, Marina Beach became the place where the social and political events of Madras and India were held. It was home to numerous meetings, rallies, protests, and celebrations that not only flooded Indian history but also influenced the political course of the country. Among the very first and most influential incidents that occurred at Marina Beach are:
The very first demonstration of Indian National Congress in 1887, which was led by Annie Besant and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.
In 1919, the very first public appearance of Mahatma Gandhi in Madras was the event where he addressed a huge crowd of supporters.
C. N. Annadurai's funeral procession in 1969 was an event that over 15 million people, thus making it the largest funeral in history, were present.
Key facts about Marina Beach Chennai
Here are the key facts about Marine Beach Chennai
Marina Beach Chennai establishment: The first aquarium of India was built in Marina Beach in 1909.
Marina Beach Chennai Location: Marina Beach is located in Triplicane, Chennai, Tamilnadu India. It is spread out to the Coromandel coast of the Bay of Bengal.
Length of Marina Beach Chennai: It is about 12 km long and this makes it the 2nd largest beach in the world.
Marina Beach Chennai Timings: Marina Beach opens 24*7 but it is best to visit during morning and evening for utmost experience.
Best time to visit Marina Beach Chennai
Marina Beach is situated in Chennai which is a hot climatic area. The best time to visit Chennai is during winter season during November to February and so is the best time to visit Marina Beach. The weather stays pleasant during this time of the month, offering a perfect time for morning walks, sightseeing, and evening events. You can also enjoy street food, beach activities and photography during this time of the month.
How to Reach Marina Beach Chennai
Chennai being a metro city is reachable through various means of transport like air, water, and land. Let’s know them in detail below for a smooth and memorable journey-
By Train
Chennai Central, and Chennai Egmore are the two major railway stations nearby Marina Beach Chennai. From there you can take an auto or rickshaw towards the Beach.
By Air
Kamaraj domestic terminal and Anna International Airport, Chennai connects Chennai to the major airports of the world. You can hire prepaid taxis, local buses, and auto rickshaws from the airport to reach the beach.
By Bus
Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminal or CMBT is one of the largest bus stations in Asia nearby Marina Beach Chennai. You can hire prepaid taxis, local buses, and auto rickshaws from the or bus terminal to reach the beach as it is only 5 km away from there.
Places to visit near Marina Beach Chennai
Marina Beach has a plethora of attractions nearby, which makes the visitors explore the heritage culture, food and places but if you are confused about places to visit near Marina beach, then you should definitely check the following list;
1. San Thome Basilica
Prepare to uncover the wonder of this striking Gothic cathedral that stands right above the grave of St. Thomas. He was one of the twelve closest friends of Jesus. This church, originally made in the 1500s, is just a short way from Marina Beach, a great spot for your next walk! The first impression of the church will make you utter a "Wow!" The entire structure shines white very brightly in the sun, and the tower, with its sharp end, extends to 155 feet high.
Indulge yourself with a spectacular view once you are there inside. The vibrant stained glass windows narrate the life of St. Thomas through the pictures, and his tomb is there in the front. This wonderful place is a blend of past, lovely, and religious themes all merged together in one location and very accessible during your trip.
2. Fort St. George
If you are interested in history, you should definitely enjoy visiting St. Mary's Church. The surprising fact is that it's the oldest Anglican church in the whole of India. You should definitely take a look at the Fort Museum full of old artifacts from the time of the British rule and take a walk along the massive walls that were constructed to ensure the safety of their settlements.
One of the most amazing things is you can explore Tamil as well as ancient European culture at this fort and it's like two completely different worlds coming together at one point. It really gives you an idea of what makes the history of Chennai so unique! And this unique amalgamation of cultures makes it one of the best marina beach chennai tourist places.
3.Government museum complex
The remarkable metal sculptures of the Chola period extensively cover the Bronze Gallery. Alongside, the Archaeological Section is home to the artefacts that are extremely old.
The Children's Museum is definitely one of the best places to visit in Chennai with a family and it is absolutely worth your time. Also, the Contemporary Art Gallery displaying the works of modern Indian artists might interest you.
4.Kapaleeshwar Temple
Are you aware of the magnificent Dravidian temple which is estimated to have existed as far back as the 7th century? It is one of those historical places that you cannot forget to visit in Chennai. Honestly, the place is jaw-dropping. It is a temple of Lord Shiva and it brings you back to the glorious times of ancient Tamil Nadu.
And really, the gopuram is the highlight of the temple! It has a height of 40 meters and is covered with brightly colored and meticulously carved sculptures of the gods. How about those Instagram shots, right? If you are going to visit, please try to witness one of the periodic puja. The priests are incredible, conducting their rituals with the smells of incense surrounding them and the sounds of prayers going on it is a very calm atmosphere. You will definitely not want to miss it!
5. Semmozhi Poonga (The Botanical Garden)
Semmozhi Poonga also known as the Botanical Garden. It is an ultimate destination and offers numerous varieties of plants, flowers, trees, and herbs that are sourced from different areas and climates. It is a 20 acres wide area and is embellished with thematic gardens, waterfalls, ponds, and fountain, which makes it heaven for the peace lovers and adventure seekers.
6. Marina Lighthouse
Marina Lighthouse is a 46-meter (151 feet) tall lighthouse, which gives a complete view to anyone visiting Marina Beach and Chennai city. The lighthouse is among the rare ones in India that are accessible to the public and also have a lift that goes to the top.
Things to Do in Marina Beach Chennai
There are lots of things to do in Chennai and one of the best things is exploring the Marina Beach. From watching the sunset to exploring delicious food and nearby places. Here are the following most exciting things to do in Marina Beach-
1. Watching sunrise and sunset
One of the main reasons that Marina Beach is popular is because of the very photogenic sunrises and sunsets that can be seen there. Spending your sunrise time in Chennai Marina Beach is also considered as the most important thing to do here. Sunrise and sunset create a wonderful atmosphere and a great background that can be used for pictures and videos.
Not only that, but you can see the sky and the ocean change their colors while you can also hear the wind and feel the sun's heat on your body.
2. Walking or jogging
Marina Beach is the perfect place for a stroll or a run along the coastline because it offers a broad and lengthy run of sand that is velvety and spotless.
While you are there, you can take in the pure air, the sea sound, and also tap into your energy reserves. Moreover, you may become a member of the walker’s club, which meets in the morning and evening at Marina Beach and conducts group walks and exercises.
3. Playing or relaxing on the sand
Marina Beach is an awesome spot to have fun or chill out on the sand as it offers a lot of space and facilities for recreation and leisure. There are such activities as cricket, volleyball, frisbee, and kite flying which can be played at the beach while one can also make sand castles, sculptures, or art.
People can also relax on the sand with a book, a magazine, or a music player, or take a nap under an umbrella or a palm tree.
4. Swimming or surfing
Marina Beach is also famous as an excellent location to go into the water for swimming or surfing, because it has moderate waves and currents that can be used by both beginners and experts. Swimming safely can be performed in the locations which are marked by flags and where lifeguards are present, whereas surfing can be done with your own board or a board that you have rented from the local shops. Moreover, you may get surfing lessons from the accredited instructors who are at Marina Beach.
5. Indulging in some photoshoots
Marina Beach is an ideal spot to do some photography or videography of nature. It has a stunning and varied terrain that consists of sand, water, palm trees, statues, monuments, buildings, and people. With your camera or mobile, you are able to depict the very nature and inviting characters of Marina Beach and make a record of it.
Travel tips for Marina Beach Chennai
Here are the following tips for a happy experience at Marina Beach Chennai;
It is advised to not swim during the high tide.
Wear modest clothes on a beach.
If you want to click a local’s photo, then be sure to ask him/her first.
Bargain with vendors but at the same time, you should be reasonable.
The brightly lit red stalls that run along the outer beach are the places where you can get tasty local foods. Certainly, you have to indulge in these lovely local treats, but it is better to take only cooked food and to refrain from foods that have been lying in the open for too long. Instead of drinking from different sources, buy bottled water from vendors.
Conclusion
Marina Beach has everything that you can expect from a pure beach and a lot more. A day at the starts with the very beautiful sunrise and your early morning cup of coffee and then it can be wrapped up by the beach with some hot and spicy street food and the hypnotic sound of the sea. In case you are a history lover, or a food lover, or even if you are just looking for some peace and quiet by the water, Marina Beach Chennai, is the place which will give you not only a real brief of the local life but also, make lots of unforgettable memories that will be with you for a long time after your trip.
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