Little Mount & St Thomas Mount (Chinnamalai & Parangi Malai)

Overview

Little Mount and St. Thomas Mount are two significant historical and religious sites located near Chennai. These sites are revered for their spiritual and historical importance, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

These sites are believed to be associated with the life of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is said to have visited the area in 52 AD. They hold immense religious and historical significance.

Religious Site Historical Site

Location

Address

66 Lourd Doss Grotto Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Neighborhood: Guindy

Coordinates

13.010000, 80.200000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

300 INR

Children

150 INR

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October to February

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and sunny

• festivals
• gardens

summer

hot and humid

• extended hours

autumn

cool and pleasant

• fall colors

winter

cool and pleasant

• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• stairs
• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Typical Costs

entry 300 INR

parking 50 INR

food 200 INR

souvenirs 100-500 INR

Dress Code

modest and respectful, comfortable shoes, light clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, revealing attire

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

St. Thomas Mount App

Size: 50 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Chennai International Airport

Distance: 20 km

Travel Time: 40 minutes

taxi

500 INR 40 min

public_transport

50 INR 1 hour

From City Center

Distance: 15 km

metro

20 INR 30 min

bus

20 INR 40 min

taxi

300 INR 25 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic and spiritual significance

Historical Significance: Associated with St. Thomas the Apostle, who is said to have been martyred here

Insider Tips

Free entry during early morning prayers
Best local food at nearby stalls

Local Recommendations

• Try local South Indian cuisine
• Ask for guide John

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Vanakkam

thank_you Nandri

where_is Evaru

how_much Evvalavu

beautiful Sundara

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Tamil, Hindi

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

St. Thomas Mount peak

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Panoramic view

#travel #history #religion

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints

prohibited areas inside chapels

flash photography not allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Guindy National Park

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min

Type: National Park

Chennai Crocodile Bank

Distance: 10 km

Walking: not walkable

Type: Wildlife Park

Marina Beach