British Buildings & the Story of Chennai walking tour with guide

Chennai , India

British Buildings & the Story of Chennai walking tour with guide

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About this experience

Story of Chennai through British Buildings is an immersive walking tour in Chennai. This tour is led by a cultural evangelist who will explain the history of these buildings as well as the fate of their masters.
Chennai was an important power centre during the British rule in India. Listen to the Chennai story through the buildings built in that period.
Over the 3 hours appreciate the harmony in blending of Victorian Gothic, Indo-Saracenic and Byzantine styles of architecture.

Our company is committed to strengthening local communities. We help train and employ local guides and support local businesses to ensure travel dollars stay where they are spent. Our guide will be happy to talk about the community initiatives we undertake.

Available options

with Hotel pick up

Pickup included

Walk with pick and drop

Car<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Snacks

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

The Railways is a British Legacy left behind after the fall of imperialism. Today the Indian Railways binds this vast country together. The Central Railway Station was built in 1873 in Gothic Revival style by British architect George Harding handles more than 350000 passengers every day.

Stop 2

Built in the year 1913, the Ripon Building is the official seat of the Chennai Corporation and is painted white as a representation of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is named after Lord Ripon, a Governor-General of British India. Our Cultural Evangelist will explain how Ripon introduced local self Government in India. Today this building is the office of Mayor of Chennai and features a charming Westminster Chiming Clock.

Stop 3

The Southern Railway headquarters was one of the earliest buildings in India to be built with reinforced concrete. Learn about how the British introduced Railways to hasten troop movement and helped keep the Colony under the control of the British Empire. After independence this symbol of colonialism became a unifying agent of Modern India with various provinces spread far away from each other.

The Victory War Memorial, formerly called the Cupid’s bow, is a memorial constructed to commemorate the victory of the Allied Armies during World War I

Stop 5

We will visit St Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church of India.

Napier Bridge was built in 1869 across the Coovum river and is named after the British governor of Fort St George. Before arriving iin India, Napier commanded the 50th Regiment of Foot during the Peninsular War in Iberia against Napoleon Bonaparte. He helped annex the SIndh province in North West India which was resisting the British Empire.

The Senate House is the administrative center of the University of Madras. We part ways after appreciating this Indo Saracenic beauty.

Available languages

Guide guide

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet out guide outside ticket counter near platform 4.

About Chennai

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and bustling streets. It's a melting pot of tradition and modernity, offering everything from ancient temples to modern IT hubs.

Top Attractions

Marina Beach

Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching over 13 km along the Bay of Bengal.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Fort St. George

This historic fort was the first English fortress in India and is now a museum showcasing the city's colonial past.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 50

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and a major pilgrimage site.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Government Museum

One of the oldest museums in India, it houses a vast collection of artifacts, including bronze sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours INR 25

Breezy Beach

A quieter alternative to Marina Beach, Breezy Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Beach 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dosa

A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, often served with sambar and chutney.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian

Idli

Soft, steamed rice cakes made from fermented batter, typically served with sambar and chutney.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Filter Coffee

A strong, aromatic coffee made using a traditional filter, often served with milk and sugar.

Drink Non-vegetarian

Chettinad Chicken

A spicy, flavorful chicken dish from the Chettinad region, known for its unique blend of spices.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Scuba diving Snorkeling Surfing Beach visits Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Music and dance performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the best time to visit Chennai as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Tamil
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Chennai is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or app-based services like Ola and Uber.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Chennai International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore

By bus

Koyambedu, CMBT

Getting around

Public transport

The Chennai Metro is a modern, efficient, and air-conditioned system that covers major parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Mylapore T. Nagar Besant Nagar

Day trips

Mahabalipuram

60 km from Chennai • Half day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples, rock-cut caves, and sculptures.

Kanchipuram

75 km from Chennai • Full day

A historic city known for its ancient temples, silk sarees, and religious significance.

Pondicherry

160 km from Chennai • Overnight

A former French colony with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures, known for its beaches, architecture, and spiritual centers.

Festivals

Pongal • January Chennai Music Season • December-January Chennai Film Festival • December

Pro tips

Visit the city's temples and historical sites early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Try the local street food, but be cautious and choose vendors with high turnover to ensure freshness.
Use app-based services like Ola and Uber for convenient and reliable transportation.
Explore the city's vibrant street art and mural scene, with numerous murals and art installations throughout the city.
Visit the city's beaches, such as Marina Beach and Breezy Beach, for a relaxing break from the bustling city life.