Madras High Court
The basics
The domes, minarets, and other decorative elements of the building’s exterior are its biggest draw, and it’s a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It was also one of only a few buildings in India to have been damaged by a German attack during the early years of World War I, though it has since been beautifully restored. Many city sightseeing tours focusing on history and/or architecture stop here, and going with a guide is a great option for those who want an in-depth explanation of the court's history and local significance.
Things to know before you go
- Tours that go to the Madras High Court focus on the exterior, and there are no formal tours of the interiors available.
- Those who do want to enter the court are required to provide entry passes, so don’t count on getting in on your own unless you have a court date.
- If you want to take photos of the exterior, the best views are from NSC Bose Road, near the North (A) Gate.
How to get there
The Madras High Court is located in George Town, about a 15-minute walk from Fort Saint George. The area is easy to get to via public transportation, and the High Court commuter train station sits on the western end of the court complex. Train rides to the popular Mylapore neighborhood take about 35 minutes.
Trip ideas
When to get there
As the court isn’t generally open to visitors, the main factors to take into consideration when deciding when to show up are weather, light, and traffic. Early morning just after sunrise is a great bet for all three, when weather is cooler, traffic is minimal, and the light is ideal for photography.
The Armenian Church
Just around the corner from the Madras High Court sits the Armenian Church, one of the oldest churches in India. Dating back to 1712, this popular attraction features beautiful interiors, with a painted altarpiece and huge bells—the oldest of which date back to the 18th century.
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- St. Andrew’s Church (The Kirk)
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