Chennai is known for its beautiful culture and lively festivals. If you are looking forward to visiting Chennai in December, you’re in for a treat! Since it is situated off the coastline, Chennai experiences a tropical climate from October to December. Right from adventurous activities to pleasant sightseeing spots, there is a lot you can do here. The spectacular monuments, breathtaking beaches, scenic waterfalls, top-notch resorts, and beautiful temples are some of the major highlights of Chennai. Everything from the delicious South Indian dishes, to Carnatic music, will add to your experience.
Weather In Chennai In December
Located along the beautiful coastline, the overall weather in Chennai is generally humid and hot. However, the weather in Chennai in December is quite pleasant. In order to avoid the heavy downpours and scorching summers, October to February is considered as an ideal time to visit this beautiful place. The temperature in Chennai in December varies between 22 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius.
Places To Visit In Chennai In December
Chennai is not only the 4th largest city in India, but it is also called the cultural capital of India. The city is a perfect blend of art, architecture, dance, music, and drama. The city is also famous for its temples, museums, churches, white-sand beaches, and most importantly mouth-watering seafood. Here is a list of the top three places to visit in Chennai in December.
1. Marina Beach
This mesmerizing beach owns the credit of being India’s longest and world’s second-largest beach. Marina Beach is one of the most visited places in Chennai during the month of December when the temperature is pleasant and inviting falling between 20 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.
The beach is always refreshing and peaceful making it perfect for strolling and walking in the evening with your loved ones. Apart from that, we strongly recommend you click photos of the splendid sunset views and savor some lip-smacking local delicacies at the restaurants close to the beach.
Best time to visit: October to December
Ideal for: Families, friends, couples and solo travelers
How to reach: All the city buses going through Triplicane stop at Marina beach. If your hotel is close to Meenambakkam Airport of Chennai, then get a local train from Meenambakkam railway station to reach Marina beach.
Fun Things to do: Kite flying, pony riding, horse riding, photography, sightseeing
23 New Year Parties In Chennai (2024): The Ultimate List Of Events
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
2. Vandalur Zoo
Visiting a zoo is certainly a thrilling and one-of-a-kind experience during any holiday. Also known as Arignar Anna Zoological Park, this zoo is home to 2,553 species of flora and fauna sprawling across an area of 1,265 acres. It is also home to around 31 species of reptiles, 63 species of birds and 47 species of mammals. This zoological park is also a breeding space for 5 endangered species of amphibians and 10 species of insects. Regarded as the largest zoological garden in India, this place is a must-visit to get a glimpse of the wild animals like tigers, panthers, wolves, etc.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM (Tuesdays closed)
Entry fee: INR 75 (adults) | INR 35 (children)
How to reach: The zoo is 15 km from Chennai Airport and is 2 km from Tambaram city.
Things to do: Safaris and picnics
53 Reasons To Look Forward To The Weekends If You Are in Chennai In 2024
3. Queensland Amusement Park
Undoubtedly, amusement parks are one of the best crowd-pleasers for a child, an adult, or a teenager. Sprawling across a massive area of 70 acres, Queensland Amusement Park is one of the best places to visit in Chennai in December. Boasting more than 51 thrilling and fun-filled rides and coupled with a huge food court, this park is a perfect place to visit for unlimited fun and entertainment. A day at Queensland Amusement Park is worth every penny of your money.
Location: Poonamallee, Chennai
Timings: 10 AM – 6:30 PM (open till 7:30 PM on weekends)
Entry fee: INR 550 (Adults) | INR 450 (Children)
How to reach: Buses 549, 554, 565A and 578 going to Sriperumbudur and Poonamallee stop by Queensland Amusement Park.
4 Best Water Parks In Chennai Are Perfect To Beat The Summer Heat!
Things To Do In Chennai In December
The city guarantees an unmatched holiday experience to foodies, adventure seekers, history geeks, couples, and families with kids since it has so much to offer.
1. Muttukadu – Boating
Located just 40kms from Chennai on the East Coast Road, the Muttukadu Lake is a famous tourist destination for watersports activities. Get that adrenaline rush by indulging yourself in some of the crazy activities like speed boat riding, rowing, windsurfing, and water skiing. You can also visit the boathouse for some peaceful moments or enjoy a floating boat jetty ride, which is one of the major attractions here.
Location: East Coast Road, Muttukadu
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry fee:
Row boating – INR 130
Speed boating – INR 450
Shared Boating – INR 50
Ideal for: Nature lovers, couples, family
How to reach: One of the easiest ways to get to Muttukadu Lake is by bus. Almost all buses going to Pondicherry stop by this place.
14 Best Beach Restaurants In Chennai For A Dinner Date With Views
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
2. Pondy Bazaar – Shopping
If you think your bargaining skills are good, then visit Pondy Bazaar for buying some interesting things back home. This principal shopping destination of Chennai is lined up with a wide range of clothing, accessories and footwear stores. If you love shopping for branded clothes, then you have innumerable branded stores in Pondy Bazaar. Indian Terrain, Strauss & Co, Woodland, Fastrack, and Raymond are some of the brands found here.
Location: T. Nagar, Chennai
Ideal for: Couples, families, solo travelers, and shopaholics
How to reach: The best way to reach Pondy Bazaar is to take a bus from T.Nagar. You can also hail a cab for convenient traveling.
Tip: Carry enough cash with you as small stores and shops do not accept card payments
11 Most Haunted Places In Chennai
3. Kapaleeshwarar Temple – Seek Blessings
Chennai is home to a lot of places that exhibit the rich and cultural heritage of the country. Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of those places that exhibit the Dravidian style of architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this holy temple is one of the oldest temples in Chennai and is visited by thousands of devotees and tourists every year. A visit to the temple is recommended for imbibing a spiritual spirit in you. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Puri Jagannath temple in Chennai exhibits the Kalinga style of architecture. The interior carvings of the temple are simply mind-blogging.
Location: Mylapore, Vadakku Mada Street
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry fee: NIL
Ideal for: Couples, families, and solo travelers
How to reach: Chennai Airport is 17 km while the Chennai Railway station is 7 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport and the station to reach the temple. You can also hop into a bus from the Mylapore bus stand, there are buses every 15 minutes.
5 Homestays In Chennai For A True Tamilian Hospitality
4. Birla Planetarium – Stargazing
Yet another one of the famous tourist places of Chennai, Birla Planetarium gives you a virtual ride into space. Visit the Planetarium to get a glimpse of the solar system, the movement of stars, the earth, the moon, and various other extra-terrestrial elements of outer space. In order to serve people of different languages, the planetarium has programs in English and Tamil that you shouldn’t miss.
Location: Gandhi Mandapam Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry fee: INR 45 (adults) | INR 25 (kids)
How to reach: The cheapest way to reach Birla Planetarium is to get a train ticket from Chennai Central Station.
23 Picnic Spots In And Around Chennai For An Extravagant Holiday Experience In 2024
With so much to explore and experience, your vacation in Chennai in December will surely be an exciting and memorable one! And once you’re back, don’t forget to write to us and tell us all about your fabulous holiday experience in this wonderful city!
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chennai In December
What is the best time to visit Chennai?
You can visit Chennai anytime between October to February, i.e. during the winter and pre-monsoon season. Cyclones and heavy downpours are expected during the monsoons, while the summer season is just not ideal to explore the city.
How cold does it get in Chennai?
Chennai experiences relatively shorter winters and the city is warm during January. The approximate day temperature during January is around 29 degrees Celsius.
What is Chennai most famous for?
Chennai is mainly known for being an industrial and IT hub. Apart from this, it is also popular for its vibrant festivals, Carnatic music, exquisite culture, Marina beach, temples, tropical climate, and monuments. The delicious South Indian and Chettinad food is also very popular in Chennai.
Which are the best places to shop in Chennai?
Some of the best shopping destinations in Chennai are Chennaigaga, Dakshinachitra, Poompuhar, Spencer Plaza, and the Old Curiosity Shop on Mount Road. You can also explore the unique gift store in Alwarpet – CHAYA – Tanjore Art & More.
Which are the famous food items of Chennai?
You can indulge in some famous dishes such as Pongal, masala dosa, idli sambar, bajji, biryani, fish fry, kothu parotta, onion tomato uttapam, etc. Filter coffee and rose milk are also quite famous in Chennai.
What clothes to carry in Chennai?
Since Chennai experiences a tropical climate, one can carry lighter shades of cotton clothes. Woolen clothes are generally not required as the temperature is normally warmer. In case you are visiting during monsoons, make sure you carry raincoats and umbrellas as well.
What are some of the top things to do in Chennai in December?
Nature enthusiasts can indulge in camping and beach bonfire, or stroll through the Thalankuppam Pier. You can also visit the Tada waterfall trek, Ubbalamadugu Falls, MGM Dizzee World, San Thome Cathedral, St Thomas Mount Church, Valluvar Kottam, Birla Planetarium, Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Queens Land. Moreover, you can even enjoy bird watching at the beautiful Pulicat Lake.
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
People Also Read:
Coorg In December Srinagar In December Uttarakhand In December
A keen observer, an avid reader, a complete foodie, a pet lover and a curious entrepreneur with a vision to empower women. Penning down thoughts and musings come naturally, so, what better way to make a living than do what you love the most. Sujata started off as a content writer and today spearheads a content agency with an all-women team, where each day is about exploring the strength within, overcoming challenges and aiming to scale new heights. Her idea of a holiday well spent is visiting beautiful destinations, experimenting with food and trying out adventure activities.
