GK: Which Is The Longest Beach In India? It Also Ranks 2nd In The World

Marina Beach in Chennai stands out with its unique charm and history which make it special. It is more than a tourist spot; it holds a record. Extending about 13 kilometres, it is the longest beach in India and the second longest urban beach in the world. Let’s explore why this beach, stretching for kilometres along the Bay of Bengal, has become a symbol of Chennai.

It starts from the historic Fort St. George in the north and reaches Besant Nagar in the south. In some parts, the distance from the road to the water’s edge is 437 metres. This wide beach resulted from natural sand deposition after the Chennai Harbour was constructed in the 19th century.

Marina Beach is integral to the lifestyle of Chennai residents, offering great opportunities for

enjoyment. People can be seen walking, jogging, and practising yoga, creating a refreshing and healthy atmosphere. In the evening, the beach transforms into a fair with hundreds of small shops. From delicious snacks to handicrafts and jewellery, you can find everything here.

Kite flying, pony rides, and watching the sunrise and sunset are popular activities. However, dangerous undercurrents make swimming unsafe and prohibited.

Marina Beach is more than just sand and water; it is an open-air museum. Statues of Tamil heroes, writers, and great personalities like Mahatma Gandhi line the beach road. Memorials of prominent political leaders like Annadurai and M.G. Ramachandran are also located here. Tourists are attracted to the old Chepauk Palace, Presidency College, Chennai Lighthouse, and Aquarium. In the 1880s, British Governor Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant Duff developed this beach as a resort and named it ‘Madras Marina’.

Those who plan to visit Marina Beach must keep a few things in mind. The best time to enjoy the weather is between November and February. The beach is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or auto from any area of Chennai. Chennai International Airport is 18 km away, and Chennai Central Railway Station is just 4 km away.