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Chennai Lighthouse: Beacon of the Bay of Bengal

Ascend Chennai Lighthouse for panoramic city & sea views. Explore maritime history at this Marina Beach landmark. Open Tue-Sun.

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The Chennai Lighthouse, located on Marina Beach, is a modern structure that replaced older lighthouses in the city. Opened in 1977, it offers panoramic views of Chennai and the Bay of Bengal from its viewing gallery. The lighthouse also houses a museum showcasing the history of marine navigation.

A brief summary to Chennai Lighthouse

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays or early in the morning to avoid crowds and long waiting times for the elevator.
  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry.
  • Cameras are allowed, but there is a separate fee for still cameras.
  • Allow about 1-2 hours for your visit to fully enjoy the views and museum.
  • Note that the time at the top may be limited to around 5 minutes during peak hours.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chennai Central Railway Station, take a local train to Chennai Beach station, which is about 0.74 km from the lighthouse. Alternatively, several MTC buses connect Chennai Central to the Lighthouse. Bus routes include 21EET, 22, 27D, 6, and 6D. From the bus or train station, it's a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride to the lighthouse. Bus fare is approximately ₹7-₹26.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber are readily available throughout Chennai. A taxi ride from Chennai Central Railway Station to the lighthouse typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is ₹250-₹300.

  • Walking

    If you are already on Marina Beach, the lighthouse is located at the southern end. Simply walk along the beach or the Marina Beach Road to reach the entrance. The walk from the northern end of the beach can take approximately 30-45 minutes.

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Discover more about Chennai Lighthouse

Chennai Lighthouse, situated at the southern end of Marina Beach, is the fourth lighthouse to serve the city. The first lighthouse was established in 1796 on Fort St. George, followed by a granite Doric column in 1841 near the Madras High Court. The current triangular, cylindrical concrete structure opened in January 1977 and stands approximately 46 meters tall. Visitors can take an elevator to the ninth floor, where a viewing gallery provides 360-degree views of the city and coastline. The tenth floor houses high-security radar equipment and is closed to the public. The lighthouse is also home to the meteorological department. A museum at the base showcases the history of lighthouses and maritime navigation with exhibits of historical artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. The lighthouse is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. It's recommended to visit during the early morning or late evening to enjoy the cool sea breeze and stunning sunrise or sunset views. The vibrant atmosphere of Marina Beach, combined with the historical significance of the lighthouse, makes it a unique place to experience local culture.

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