Overview
St. Mary's Church is the oldest British building in India and a significant historical landmark. It is known for its beautiful architecture and its role in the history of British rule in India.
It is the oldest British building in India and a testament to the colonial history of the region.
Location
Address
Shankar Road, Fort St. George, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Neighborhood: Fort St. George
Coordinates
13.082000, 80.270500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November to February
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm and pleasant
- • Pleasant weather for sightseeing
summer
Hot and humid
- • Historical reenactments
autumn
Pleasant and cool
- • Cooler weather
winter
Cool and pleasant
- • Christmas and New Year celebrations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check opening hours
- Dress modestly
- Respect religious customs
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: None
- • Hot weather in summer
- • Occasional rain in monsoon
Medical facilities: Nearby hospitals available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Modest clothing, Comfortable shoes, Closed-toe shoes, Shorts, Sleeveless tops
Booking Tips
- • Not usually required
- • Official website or local tour providers
- • Varies by tour provider
- • Not usually available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
St. Mary's Church Guide
Size: 20 MB
Features: Interactive map, Historical information, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Not available
Charging Stations: Not available
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Chennai International Airport
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historical significance and beautiful architecture
Historical Significance: Oldest British building in India, important in colonial history
Insider Tips
- Best time to visit is early morning for fewer tourists
- Local cafes offer delicious South Indian snacks
Local Recommendations
- • Try local South Indian cuisine nearby
- • Visit the Government Museum next door
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Tamil
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main altar
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Use natural light from the windows
Result: Beautiful interior shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Government Museum
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Museum
Fort St. George
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Historical Site
Chennai Fort Railway Station
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Landmark
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early to avoid crowds"
- "Combine with a visit to the Government Museum"
- "Dress modestly"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
6
Rating
4.3 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
Free