About The Port Of Chennai
Chennai, the sprawling capital of Tamil Nadu on India's southeastern coast, blends colonial-era architecture with deep roots in South Indian culture. Near the port, the Georgetown district reveals narrow lanes lined with markets, warehouses, and buildings dating to the city's days as a British trading post. The Basilica of San Thome, built over the traditional burial site of St. Thomas the Apostle, stands as one of the few churches in the world constructed atop an apostle's tomb.
Farther inland, the temple town of Kanchipuram offers a glimpse of Dravidian architecture dating to the 8th century, its ancient shrines still active centers of worship. Travelers with limited time can focus on Georgetown's walkable historic core near the pier, while those seeking a fuller day often venture to Kanchipuram for its temple heritage and silk-weaving traditions.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Chennai.
Explore Kanchipuram's Temples
Visit the 8th-century Kailasanathar or Ekambareswarar temples, active Dravidian shrines carved with intricate stonework, and browse the town's famed silk-weaving workshops. Plan roughly a half-day for the inland trip from the pier.
Wander Georgetown's Lanes
Stroll the narrow colonial-era streets near the port, past spice markets, old warehouses, and trading-post facades that recall Chennai's British commercial past. Easily walkable in an hour or two.
Visit the Basilica of San Thome
Step inside this striking white church, one of only a few churches worldwide built over an apostle's tomb, said to hold the remains of St. Thomas. A short taxi ride from the pier.
Last Minute Cruise Deals From Chennai
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 7, 2027 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Aura | 23 | $10,429 | ||
| Feb 17, 2028 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Aura | 23 | $12,994 |
Cruise Lines That Call Here
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