The park was developed by the Tamil Nadu Department of Horticulture and Plantation Crops at a cost of INR 46 crore. The land originally belonged to the Agri Horticultural Society before the state government recovered and repurposed it for public use. Chief Minister M K Stalin laid the foundation stone on 27 February 2024, and the park opened to the public on 7 October 2024.
Kalaignar Centenary Park was designed to integrate horticulture, education, recreation, and ecology in a single location. A specific mandate to showcase Sangam-era flora alongside modern horticultural achievements sets it apart from conventional public parks. A 30 m Supertree structure, added after the initial opening, is now one of the park's most striking visual features, particularly in the evening when it is illuminated.
Main Attractions and Fees
500 m Zipline: INR 250 for adults and INR 200 for children. One of the longest ziplines within a public park in Tamil Nadu. Visit early to avoid long queues. Open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Air-conditioned Glasshouse (10,000 sq. ft.): INR 50 for adults and INR 40 for children. Showcases rare and exotic plants, including seven varieties of orchids. Open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Aviary: INR 150 for adults and INR 75 for children. A birdwatching and bird-feeding zone with a diverse range of species. Open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Horticultural Museum: No separate fee. Covers the life cycle of plants, silkworm cultivation, and the history of regional flora.
Musical Fountain Show: INR 50 per person. Shows at 6:30 PM and 7:10 PM. Tickets are limited and should be secured on arrival; bookings open after 4:00 PM.
Supertree Structure: A 30 m illuminated structure, best appreciated in the evening. Open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Children's Play Zone and Toy Train: Rides and play equipment for young visitors. INR 50 per ride.
Sangam-era Flora Garden: Showcases plants referenced in classical Tamil Sangam literature across a dedicated garden section
How to Plan Your 3-Hour Visit
Tickets are valid for 3 hours from entry, so a clear plan helps cover the key attractions without rushing:
Arrive between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM to allow time to cover the zipline, glasshouse, and aviary before the fountain show at 6:30 PM.
Start with the zipline to beat the afternoon queue build-up.
Visit the glasshouse and aviary during the warmest part of the afternoon, as both are climate-controlled or shaded.
Secure fountain show tickets on arrival, as tickets are limited.
Photography is permitted. A still camera carries a fee of INR 100. Smartphone photography has no additional charge.
Eco-conscious Design and Plant Diversity
Kalaignar Centenary Park was developed with a focus on ecological restoration within an urban setting. Key features include:
Sangam-era Flora: A curated collection of plants referenced in classical Tamil literature, creating a living botanical record of Tamil Nadu's historical plant heritage.
Orchidarium: 7 varieties of orchids are maintained under climate-controlled conditions inside the glasshouse.
Aviary Biodiversity: A range of bird species that urban visitors would not ordinarily encounter in a city environment
Department of Horticulture Management: The park is maintained directly by the Tamil Nadu Department of Horticulture, ensuring consistent horticultural standards.
Best Experiences for Every Visitor
For Families: Plan to spend a few hours exploring the children's play areas and open lawns. Stay until evening to watch the musical fountain show, which is one of the park's main attractions.
For Couples: Take a relaxed walk through the landscaped gardens and quieter pathways. The park is particularly pleasant in the evening, when the temperatures are cooler, and the lighting adds to the atmosphere.
For Morning Walkers: Arrive soon after the park opens to enjoy cooler weather, fewer visitors, and peaceful walks along the garden trails.
For Photography Enthusiasts: Visit around sunset to capture the glasshouse, orchid displays, landscaped gardens, and illuminated fountains in the best natural light.
Getting There
Nearest Metro Stations: Little Mount (~6 km) and Guindy (~10 km)
Parking: No dedicated parking. Shared with Semmozhi Poonga. Public transport or early arrival is recommended to avoid congestion.
Timings and Entry Fees
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: INR 100 for adults, INR 50 for children (ages 5 - 11). Children under 5 enter free.
Ticket Validity: 3 hours from entry
Visitor Tips
Book tickets in advance, particularly on weekends and public holidays.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe footwear for the garden trails and glasshouse.
Carry a water bottle. Food and beverage options inside the park are limited.
Avoid school holidays when activity zones are at peak capacity.
Places to Visit near Kalaignar Centenary Park
Cathedral Road and the surrounding Gopalapuram and Nungambakkam areas offer several worthwhile stops that pair well with a Centenary Park Chennai visit:
Semmozhi Poonga (Directly Opposite): A 20-acre botanical garden with over 500 plant species and a butterfly park. Entry is ticketed.
Valluvar Kottam (~2 km): A cultural monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet Valluvar
Nungambakkam High Road (~3 km): Cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops in one of central Chennai's most accessible commercial streets
Express Avenue Mall (~3 km): One of Chennai's larger shopping and dining destinations, a short drive from Cathedral Road
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Take a break from sightseeing with a meal at The Fisherman's Wharf, our signature multi-cuisine restaurant, where Goan-inspired recipes are served alongside a wide selection of other favourites.
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