Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J.Jayalalitha Memorial: A Tribute to Tamil Nadu's Leaders
Pay homage to Tamil Nadu's iconic leaders at the serene Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. Jayalalithaa Memorial on Chennai's Marina Beach. A cultural and historical landmark.
Located on Chennai's Marina Beach, the Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J. Jayalalitha Memorial stands as a tribute to two iconic Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu: M.G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa. M.G.R., a beloved actor-turned-politician, served as Chief Minister for three consecutive terms and founded the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). J. Jayalalithaa, also known as Amma (Mother), succeeded M.G.R. as the leader of AIADMK and was known for her welfare initiatives. The memorial complex, officially named Bharat Ratna Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G.R. and Puratchi Thalaivi Amma Selvi J. Jayalalithaa Memorial, spans over 8.25 acres. It features a beautifully landscaped area with lush gardens, serene water bodies, and striking sculptures that capture the essence of their leadership and dedication to the people. The memorial includes mausoleums where the leaders are buried, providing a space for reflection and paying homage. An eternal flame illuminates both cemeteries, with portraits of each leader at one end. The M.G.R. memorial's construction began in 1988 and was inaugurated in May 1990. It has been renovated several times, including a remodeling in 1992 with marble. A lotus-shaped wall enclosure houses the M.G.R. Memorial, while the memorial for J. Jayalalithaa is planned to be built in the shape of a phoenix. The memorial complex is a vibrant part of Chennai's cultural tapestry, inviting tourists to connect with the spirit of Tamil Nadu.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Take your time to read the plaques and learn about the impactful lives of the leaders commemorated here.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and gardens, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.
A brief summary to Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J.Jayalalitha Memorial
- Marina Beach Road, Chennai, Navalar Nagar, Chepauk, Triplicane, Tamil Nadu, 600005, IN
- +91180042531111
- Monday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Saturday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
- Sunday 6:30 am-9:30 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the Triplicane area, you can easily walk to Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J. Jayalalitha Memorial. Head towards Marina Beach Road and Navalar Nagar. The memorial is located along this road and is easily identifiable due to its distinctive architecture. It is about a 15-20 minute walk from most central locations in Triplicane.
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Public Transport
Chennai's extensive bus network provides access to the memorial. Check for local MTC (Metropolitan Transport Corporation) bus routes that stop near Marina Beach. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the memorial entrance. Bus fares typically start from ₹5-₹6. Chennai Metro is also an option, with the nearest station being Government Estate. From there, you can take a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to the memorial.
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Taxi
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available throughout Chennai. Use ride-sharing apps or hail a taxi from the street. Tell the driver 'Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J. Jayalalitha Memorial' on Marina Beach Road, Navalar Nagar, Chepauk, Triplicane. The fare from a central location in Chennai (e.g., Chennai Central Railway Station) should be around ₹107-₹312, depending on the distance and type of taxi. Auto-rickshaws may cost ₹30-₹50.
Attractions Nearby to Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J.Jayalalitha Memorial
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Labour Statue
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University of Madras Campus
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Perarignar Anna Memorial
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Puratchi Thalaivi Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Memorial
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Anna Memorial park
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Napier Bridge
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Boat Meeting spot
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சென்னை மெரினா
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Marina Beach
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Covum River mouth
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Kannagi Statue
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Entrance Arch to Parthasarathy Temple
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Victory War Memorial
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World's Second Longest Urban Beach - Marina Beach point
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Marina Beach Photo Spot
