Kamarajar Statue
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Chennai Lighthouse: Beacon of the Bay
Ascend to Chennai Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and sea, a beacon of history and a must-see landmark on Marina Beach.
The Chennai Lighthouse, an iconic red and white structure on Marina Beach, has guided seafarers since 1977. Offering panoramic city and ocean views, it's a must-visit landmark showcasing Chennai's maritime history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Chennai Lighthouse
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Marina Beach Road, Chennai, Marina Beach, Mylapore, Tamil Nadu, 600004, IN
Tuesday
10 am-1 pm
Wednesday
10 am-1 pm
Thursday
10 am-1 pm
Friday
10 am-1 pm
Saturday
10 am-1 pm
Sunday
10 am-1 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From Marina Beach, the lighthouse is easily accessible by foot. Head south along the beach promenade; the lighthouse will be visible as a tall, red and white triangular structure. The walk from near the Mahatma Gandhi statue takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no costs involved in walking to the lighthouse.
Public Transport
The Chennai Lighthouse is well-connected by MTC buses. Several routes have stops near Marina Beach. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the lighthouse. Bus fares typically range from INR 5 to INR 30 depending on the distance and type of bus.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Chennai. A short taxi ride from Chennai Central Railway Station or other parts of the city to the lighthouse will cost approximately INR 107 to INR 722, depending on the distance and service. Expect to pay more during peak hours.
Local tips
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Visit on weekdays or early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
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Bring a valid ID for entry.
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Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking and climbing stairs.
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Cameras are allowed, so bring one to capture the stunning views.
Discover more about Chennai Lighthouse
Chennai Lighthouse, also known as Marina Lighthouse, stands proudly on Marina Beach, offering breathtaking views of the city and the Bay of Bengal. This active lighthouse, one of the few within city limits in India, is a testament to Chennai's enduring connection with the sea.
The current lighthouse, the city's fourth, was constructed in 1976 and opened in January 1977, replacing its predecessor. The first lighthouse was established in 1796 within Fort St. George. The second, a tall granite Doric column erected in 1841, was located within the compound of the Madras High Court. The third tower operated from the Madras High Court building from 1894 until this lighthouse was built.
Visitors can ascend to the viewing gallery via an elevator, a unique feature for Indian lighthouses, to witness panoramic views of the city, Marina Beach, and the Bay of Bengal. The lighthouse also houses a museum showcasing the history of marine navigation with various lamps and equipment used over time. The lighthouse is a popular spot for photographers, offering countless opportunities to capture stunning images.
A brief summary to Chennai Lighthouse
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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