Top 10 Things to do Good for Kids in Chennai District, Tamil Nadu

Probably the most magnificent and prominent reminder of Chennai's colonial lineage, the San Thome Church bears a colossal amount of history since A.D. 52, the year when St. Thomas traveled to India, though the Roman Catholic basilica was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. It was then rebuilt by the British in 1893. The imposing structure reaches a height of 155 feet and emanates peace and architectural splendor with its tall spires over the tomb of the saint. The sea makes a wonderful backdrop to the pristine white structure. The San Thome Church is considered one of the pilgrimages for people around the world.

This ancient shrine to Shiva is centrally located and among the area’s most popular landmarks.

If you are looking to soak in the culture of Chennai, the Mylapore Tank and Mandavali area should be at the top of your list. One of the oldest residential parts of Chennai, the tank is a part of the seventh century Kapaleeshwarar Temple. This is also the place where the famous Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar, was born. If you are spending a few days in Chennai, you will understand the importance of this state figure from the number of references made in signs, names of shops and statues. The quintessential travel phrase, "overwhelming sights, sounds, smells," fits perfectly in this area. The narrow streets around the temple are buzzing with activities. Flower sellers, archaic shops selling temple offering ingredients and such line the roads leading to the temple. A photographer’s dream, this place is best explored in the morning, the chosen time to pay homage at the temple.

A unique concept of bringing South India’s cultural traditions all under one roof, Dakshin Chitra is a little out of the city (25 kilometers) but certainly worth your while. Dakshin Chitra actually means "picture of the south" and that’s exactly what you should expect to see. Educational and fun at the same time, this is a center for a complete orientation to Southern India’s four states. You can experience the living traditions, performing arts, music, crafts and architecture on the 10-acre spread. The earthy feel of the structure and its surroundings transport visitors into the cultural milieu. Dakshin Chitra is great for both children and adults as you can try your hand at glass blowing, pottery and traditional games.

Close to Marina Beach, yet another architectural wonder from the 8th century can be part of the itinerary. An intricate pyramid-shaped rajagopuram (dome) stands prominently and is the main feature of the temple. As anecdotes go, the British were unable to pronounce the original name, Thiriallikeni, and rechristened it Triplicane.

Adding another feather to its intellectual cap, Chennai is now home to South Asia’s largest library. So if you are a book lover and need a break from the city’s commotion, this is the place for you. The Anna Centenary Library is an eight-story structure that has recently added to the city’s growing modern landscape in the Kotturpuram area. A Braille section, children’s corner, replica of the "Tree of Knowledge," an auditorium and an amphitheater make quite an impression on visitors.