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May Day Park: A Green Oasis in Chennai

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Discover a refreshing escape in Chennai's May Day Park, a historical green space offering recreation and a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

May Day Park, originally Napier Park, is a refreshing green space in the heart of Chennai's Chintadripet area. Established in the 1860s and later renamed, the park offers a peaceful retreat with sports facilities and historical significance as a former site for political rallies and the first May Day celebration in India.

A brief summary to May Day Park

  • 37FF+97H, Dy Mayor Kabalamoorthy Salai, Chennai, Chintadripet, Tamil Nadu, 600002, IN
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  • Monday 5 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-8 pm
  • Friday 5 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many paths to explore within the park.
  • Check local event calendars for any cultural events or festivals happening during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chennai Central Railway Station, take a local bus towards Chintadripet. Alight at the nearest bus stop to May Day Park on Dy Mayor Kabalamoorthy Salai. The park is a short, 5-minute walk from the bus stop. Bus fare is approximately ₹10-₹20.

  • Walking

    If you are near Egmore Railway Station, head towards the western exit and take a left onto Poonamallee High Road. Continue for about 1 km until you reach the intersection with Chintadripet Road. Turn right onto Chintadripet Road and walk for another 500 meters. May Day Park will be on your left on Dy Mayor Kabalamoorthy Salai. The total walk is approximately 1.5 km.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Chennai, you can hire a taxi or ride-share service to May Day Park in Chintadripet. The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes from Egmore, and the fare will range from ₹50 to ₹100, depending on traffic and your exact pickup location.

Discover more about May Day Park

Escape the Chennai bustle at May Day Park, a 14.5-acre urban oasis in Chintadripet. Originally established as Napier Park in 1869, it was named after the Governor of Madras, Francis Napier. The park's grounds were once part of Burghall's Stables. Madras (now Chennai) was the first city in India to observe May Day, and the park was renamed to commemorate this. A monument erected in 1990 stands as a reminder of this change. Today, May Day Park provides a green respite for locals and tourists alike. Maintained by Simpson & Co, the park features facilities for cricket, football, volleyball, and badminton. It's a popular spot for morning walks, evening strolls, and recreational activities. The park also hosts local events and festivities, offering a glimpse into Chennai's vibrant culture. While offering a welcome escape, some visitors have noted that the park could benefit from better upkeep. Despite this, May Day Park remains a significant landmark, offering a blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty in the heart of Chennai.

Explore the best of what May Day Park has to offer

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