“Mylapore: Where tradition meets the sea.” Nestled in the heart of Chennai, Mylapore offers a vibrant blend of cultural heritage, spiritual sanctuaries, and scenic coastal beauty. From the bustling shores of Marina Beach to the serene ambience of Kapaleeswarar Temple, Mylapore invites visitors to explore its unique charm. Experience breathtaking views from the Chennai Marina Lighthouse, enjoy a peaceful stroll on Pattinapakkam Beach, or delve into the rich history at San Thome Basilica. Discover local life at Nochikuppam Beach and witness the artistic Kolam tradition. With its diverse attractions and easy accessibility, Mylapore stands out as a must-visit destination for relaxation and exploration.
Sea Breezes And Sacred Sites: Exploring Mylapore
This blog is your passport to exploring the vibrant and historical charm of Mylapore, from the bustling Marina Beach to the serene Pattinapakkam shores. Discover stunning views at the Chennai Marina Lighthouse, soak in the history at San Thome Basilica, and marvel at the intricate Dravidian architecture of Kapaleeswarar Temple. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or need a peaceful seaside escape, this guide has all the insider tips and must-visit spots.
1. Marina Beach
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Marina Beach, just 3 km from Mylapore, is one of the longest urban beaches in the world and a must-visit for anyone in Chennai. Known for its stunning sunrise views and bustling evening atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for a morning jog, beach volleyball, or simply a relaxing stroll along the shoreline. The beach runs from near Fort St. George in the north to Foreshore Estate in the south, a distance of 6.0 km, making it the second longest urban beach in the world, after Cox’s Bazar Beach. The beach also features food stalls offering local delicacies, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and culinary exploration. Easily accessible by local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis, Marina Beach is a vibrant and lively destination for visitors of all ages.
Location: Marina Beach, Chennai
Distance from Mylapore: 3 kms
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2. Chennai Marina Lighthouse
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The Chennai Marina Lighthouse, located about 6 km from Mylapore, offers panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal and the city’s skyline. This historic lighthouse is a navigational aid and a popular tourist attraction where visitors can take an elevator ride to the top for breathtaking views. This is one of the oldest Lighthouses in Chennai. You can view the whole Marina Beach from the top of the lighthouse.
You can only visit the 9th floor. The lighthouse also houses a small maritime museum showcasing the history of lighthouses and naval navigation. Reaching the lighthouse from Mylapore is easy, with numerous transportation options, making it a perfect stop for photography enthusiasts and history buffs.
Location: Marina Beach Road, Marina Beach, Mylapore
Distance from Mylapore: 6 kms
3. Pattinapakkam Beach
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Pattinapakkam Beach, approximately 4 km from Mylapore, is a serene and lesser-known beach offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Known for its clean sands and relatively quieter ambience, it’s a great spot for evening walks, picnics, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. Local fishermen also frequented the beach, giving visitors a glimpse into the region’s traditional fishing practices. Easily accessible by local transport or a short drive from Mylapore, Pattinapakkam Beach is a hidden gem for those seeking solace by the sea.
Location: Pattinapakkam, Kuil Thoppu, Mylapore
Distance from Mylapore: 4 kms
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4. Nochikuppam Beach
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Nochikuppam Beach, just 3 km from Mylapore, is a charming coastal spot known for its fishing community and vibrant local culture. Visitors can watch fishermen at work, witness the day-to-day life of the seaside residents, and enjoy the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal. The beach offers a unique, less commercialised experience than more popular beaches. It’s not too crowded, so you can have a peaceful time there. You can see the blue sea, sandy shores, and sometimes fishermen doing their work. Since it’s a bit far from the city, you might need to plan how to get there. However, auto-rickshaws and cabs will be easily accessible. Nochikuppam Beach is ideal for those exploring Chennai’s authentic coastal life and enjoying the best fresh seafood.
Location: Nochikuppam Main Rd Nochi Kuppam, Santhome
Distance from Mylapore: 3 kms
5. San Thome Basilica
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San Thome Basilica, located about 2 km from Mylapore, is a historic church built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle. This neo-Gothic architectural marvel is not only a place of worship but also a significant landmark showcasing the colonial history of Chennai. A beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral in pristine white, this church has a Portuguese origin and dates back to the 16th century. It was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style in 1896 and is said to be the final resting place of St Thomas, the Apostle. Visitors can attend mass, explore the beautiful interiors, and visit the museum in the basilica with relics and artefacts. The basilica is well-connected by local transport, making it a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, and spirituality.
Location: Santhome neighbourhood of Chennai
Distance from Mylapore: 2 kms
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6. Kapaleeswarar Temple
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One of the imposing religious sites of Chennai city is the noted Kapaleeswarar Temple, which is majestically set in the Mylapore region of Chennai. The temple is also known as Vedapuri, and the four Vedas are worshipped at this auspicious place. The other name given to the religious site is Sukrapuri, and Sage Sukracharya offered his prayers to Lord Shiva at this location to regain his eyesight. ‘Kapaleeswarar’ combines two words: Kapalam, which means “head” and eswarar, which means “Lord Shiva”.Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is renowned for its Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and vibrant festivals. Visitors can participate in the daily rituals, explore the temple complex, and admire the stunning gopuram (tower). The temple is easily accessible by foot, auto-rickshaws, and local buses. A visit to Kapaleeswarar Temple provides a deep insight into the religious and cultural fabric of Mylapore.
Location: 234, Ramakrishna Mutt Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore
Distance from Mylapore: 1 kms
7. Experience Kolam Tradition
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Exploring Kolam tradition is a must-do activity when in Mylapore. Mylapore is incomplete without Kolam, as it offers visitors a unique experience, turning back the clock and embracing the artistic and rich heritage of South India. Kolam, a floor art made with rice flour, is traditionally created by women in front of their homes every morning. This tradition reflects the community’s artistic expression and adherence to cultural practices.
Kolam demonstrations can be seen throughout Mylapore, particularly in the early mornings, making it a captivating and enriching experience for visitors. The Kolam tradition is based on creating images from geometric shapes such as circles, triangles, squares, and other symmetrical shapes.
Location: Streets of Mylapore
Distance from Mylapore: In Mylapore
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Hope you enjoyed reading this Mylapore travel guide. Yet, the words may not do justice to this place’s splendour. It’s a place that needs to be seen and experienced, deserving all your attention. Plan your trip to Chennai and contact us for a hassle-free and memorable touring experience.
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Cover Image Credit: Ashok Arunagiri for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Mylapore
What are the top attractions in Mylapore?
Marina Beach, Chennai Marina Lighthouse, Pattinapakkam Beach, Nochikuppam Beach, San Thome Basilica, and Kapaleeswarar Temple are the top attractions and must-visit destinations of Mylapore.
How can I reach Chennai Marina Lighthouse from Mylapore?
The lighthouse is around 6 kilometres from Mylapore, making it easily accessible through various transport options. You can opt for local transport or book a cab directly to the lighthouse from your location.
What is the significance of San Thome Basilica?
Built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle, the San Thome Basilica showcases neo-gothic architecture and houses a museum with relics and artefacts.
What makes Kapaleeswarar Temple a must-visit?
Visit Kapaleeswarar Temple, which is renowned for its Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and vibrant festivals. It is one of the most significant temples in Mylapore.
When is the best time to visit Mylapore?
Visit Mylapore from November till February as the weather is pleasant and more relaxed, making outdoor visits easier.
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