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Vivekananda House: A Glimpse into Indian Culture and Spirituality

Explore the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda at this historic landmark on Chennai's Marina Beach, showcasing Indian culture and spirituality.

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Vivekananda House, formerly known as Ice House, is a historical landmark on Marina Beach Road in Chennai. It served as the residence of Swami Vivekananda for nine days in 1897 and now functions as a museum dedicated to his life, teachings, and Indian culture. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing Indian heritage, Swami Vivekananda's life events, and his messages through modern technology like virtual and augmented reality.

A brief summary to Vivekananda House

  • VIVEKANANDA HOUSE, Kamaraj Salai, Marina Beach Road, Chennai, Neelam Basha Dargapuram, Triplicane, Tamil Nadu, 600005, IN
  • +914428446188
  • Visit website
  • Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Photography is not allowed inside the museum, but you can capture the beauty of the exterior.
  • Maintain silence in the meditation room to respect the peaceful environment.
  • Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the exhibit areas.
  • Consider visiting during a talk or cultural program if you are interested in spirituality and philosophy.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Vivekananda House is accessible via Chennai's extensive public transportation network. Several bus routes stop near Marina Beach, a short walk from the house. The closest railway stations are Chepauk, Thiruvallikeni, and Light House. Light House MRTS station is only a few hundred meters away. From Chennai Central railway station, local trains can get you to one of these stations in 3 to 10 minutes. A single bus fare typically costs between ₹5 to ₹30 depending on the type of bus. Train fares are generally very affordable. Consider using the Chennai Metro; the BLUE LINE has stations near Marina Beach. Check the CMRL website for the latest fare information.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Chennai. A taxi ride from Chennai Central Railway Station to Vivekananda House, approximately 6 km, would cost around ₹107 to ₹220. Always confirm the fare with the driver or check the ride-sharing app for estimated costs. Keep in mind that fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

  • Walking

    If you are already near Marina Beach, Vivekananda House is easily accessible by foot. It's located on Kamaraj Salai (Marina Beach Road) in Triplicane. From the beach, walk along the promenade towards the northern end; Vivekananda House will be on your left. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach before or after your visit.

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Discover more about Vivekananda House

Vivekananda House, or Vivekanandar Illam as it's known in Tamil, stands as a testament to both colonial history and Indian spiritualism. Originally constructed in 1842 as an ice storage facility by Frederic Tudor, it later became a residence and was even known as Castle Kernan. Its significance amplified when Swami Vivekananda stayed here for nine days in 1897, following his return from the West. During his stay, Swami Vivekananda delivered inspiring lectures that resonated throughout India. The building later housed the Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai, for ten years. Today, the house is a museum managed by the Ramakrishna Math, showcasing Indian culture and the life and message of Swami Vivekananda. The museum, called “Experience Vivekananda,” uses modern technology like virtual and augmented reality to engage visitors. Exhibits include picture galleries, 3D and 4D displays, and a meditation room. Visitors can explore Swami Vivekananda's childhood, his travels, and key events in his life. The serene meditation hall, once Swami Vivekananda's room, offers a space for reflection. The museum also features a park with exhibits containing messages and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. Located near the iconic Marina Beach, Vivekananda House provides a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle and an insight into Indian culture and spirituality.

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