Chennai is among the most popular destinations in southern India. It is a hub of science and technology where most scientists and software guys move to in search of education or jobs. And this city welcomes them all with arms wide open. It caters to the needs of young and old alike.
While you can find the trendy bands jamming their way into some awesome metal, rock and pop stuff or young adults hitting the dance floor at uniquely themed clubs and pubs, there are also forts, palaces and temples that will give you a sneak peek into the past. There are beaches and wildlife parks for those seeking some solace or in case you need an amazing shot for your instagram. From malls, theatres, clubs, pubs, temples, beaches, zoos and amusement parks there is so much you can explore in this city and never really get bored! We present to you, the five most favoured hangout spots in the city (in no particular order):
1. The Beaches
With friends? On a beach? Only one word: Awesome! There’s nothing like spending the weekend on a beach with friends. On a beach, there is an inherent sense of freedom and with friends it is a whole new experience to share that feeling. Here are the beaches you can visit in Chennai:
i. Covelong Beach
The enthralling picturesque beauty of the Covelong beach along the Coromandel Coast will leave you spell bound! The glistening sand lined by palm trees on the periphery and the sea waves hitting the shore on the other end is just picture – perfect. This beach is famous for water sports. So head there if you want to have some adventure with your friends.
ii. Marina Beach
A trip to this land of serenity is awe-inspiring! When you witness the sunset or sunrise at the junction of golden sand and blue sea you and your friends will be mesmerised. Marina Beach is the second longest beach in the world. You could enjoy the horse ride along the shore. Water sports activities are also available here. In the neighbourhood, you can also find some significant historical monuments. It’s a beautiful beach to just chill. It is situated at Kamrajar Salai Road.
iii. Elliot Beach
Known locally as ‘Bessei’, Elliot Beach is yet another hangout spot you can head to with your friends. Apart from the scenic beauty there are some amazing food – stalls you can try out with your friends!
2. Shake a leg!
With friends you ought to hit the dance club! There is nothing compared to dancing like crazy with the crazies, right? Chennai offers some amazing options of clubs and pubs that you can head to, on a Saturday night.
i. HFO
HFO or Hell Freezes Over gives you 6000 sq ft of space to ‘shake it off’ alongwith some mind blowing music reverberating all throughout the pub. Some of the best DJs from the country are known to play here at special events.
ii. Geofferey’s
Situated at Jawaharlal Nehru Salai, Geofferey’s is a great night hangout joint that offers delicious food and exotic drinks. A special ‘Ladies Night’ is organised where you can head with your chics and avail special discounts.
iii. Dublin
Located in ITC Hotel Park Sheraton, Dublin is a classic styled pub with a fine blend of Irish pub and southern metro city ambience. A great place to just chill with friends.
3. Malls and Movies
Malls offer the ‘all in one’ option where you can get amazing restaurants, branded showrooms and movie theatres all at the same place. Malls never fail to amaze with the amazing activities and events happening. All the big brands are here, so during sale season you can have an amazing time with your friends! You can also check some of the best Tamil Movies at the big theatres here. The popular malls and cinemas in Chennai where you can go to with friends are:
i. The City Centre (near Marina Beach)
ii. Spencer Plaza (on Mount road in Anna Salai)
iii. Express Avenue (houses the largest gaming arcade)
Cinemas: INOX, Abirami Complex, Casino, Devi Complex, Sathyam Complex, Rohini Movie Park, Woodlands Multiplex, Liberty etc to name a few.
4. Amusement Parks
As the name is, these are mega amusement centres with exciting rides, water – parks and entertainment centres in one huge complex. It’s a day long picnic trip to these parks where you can let the adventurous side take over. Away from the daily hassles, the routine life this is one getaway destination that is pure fun with friends or family. Chennai has a number of these amusement centres to keep you entertained all day long:
i. MGM Dizzie World Beach Resort
It is located on East Coast Road (ECR) approximately 24 kms from the city. MGM Dizzie World Beach Resort is known for the thrilling water sports and exciting rides! Head there and get some adrenaline pumping.
ii. Dash-n-Splash
Situated on NH 4 on the way to Bangalore, Dash-n-Splash is a yet another amazing park that is popular among kids and adults alike.
5. Wildlife & Zoo
Whether it is to spend quality time with your loved ones away from the crowded city or to just explore wilderness it can be best enjoyed in the realm of nature and how. You can go out there trekking among the undulating terrains and exotic plants or a bird watching tour to spot some of the magnificent species and share the joy with friends!
i. Vandalur Zoo
Vandalur Zoo is located 30 km from the city. Here you can view the beautiful and exotic species including those of butterflies and reptiles.
ii. Crocodile Bank
Crocodile Bank located 40 km from the city is the largest crocodile breeding site in India. It is home to a large variety of alligators, crocodiles and snakes.
Chennai is a city that has shown phenomenal growth in recent years. With such development there are a number of options for you to chill with your loved ones. Big brands are now making their way into the city.
