Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Spencer Plaza, located on Anna Salai (Mount Road) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, is one of India's oldest shopping malls and a significant landmark in the city. Originally established in 1863–1864 by Charles Durant and J.W. Spencer, it was the first department store in the Indian subcontinent. The original building, designed in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style by W.N. Pogson, was destroyed by fire in 1983. The current structure was rebuilt on the same site and opened in 1991. The mall spans approximately 1.068 million square feet across eight floors, housing over 700 shops featuring both international and local brands, making it a prominent commercial and architectural landmark in Chennai's Central Business District.
Spencer Plaza was originally established in 1863–1864 by Charles Durant and J.W. Spencer, making it the first department store in the Indian subcontinent. The original building was designed in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style by W.N. Pogson, reflecting the architectural trends of the colonial period. The historic building was destroyed by fire in 1983, marking the end of an era. The current structure was rebuilt on the same site and opened in 1991, preserving the legacy of the original Spencer Plaza while adapting to modern retail needs. The mall has continued to serve as a significant commercial hub in Chennai, maintaining its position as one of the city's most prominent shopping destinations and architectural landmarks.
Modern Structure: The current building, rebuilt in 1991, spans approximately 1.068 million square feet across eight floors
Retail Space: Around 600,000 square feet of air-conditioned retail space housing over 700 shops
Office Units: 400,000 square feet of office units located between the fourth and seventh floors
Shopping Arcade: The shopping arcade occupies the ground, first, and second floors
Parking Facilities: Parking facilities available from the basement up to the third floor, with additional double basement parking in the third phase
Historic Legacy: Built on the site of the original Spencer Plaza, preserving the historic location and commercial significance
Central Business District Location: Situated in the heart of Chennai's Central Business District
Shopping at over 700 shops featuring both international and local brands including Westside, Landmark, Nike, Adidas, and Bata
Exploring the eight-floor shopping complex with diverse retail options
Dining at various restaurants and food courts
Entertainment and leisure activities
Learning about the historic significance as India's first department store
Experiencing the modern retail environment in a historic location
Visiting nearby attractions including Taj Connemara hotel and major banks
Location: Anna Salai (Mount Road), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India (in the heart of Chennai's Central Business District)
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport, Chennai – approx. 16 km
Major Railway Stations:
Chennai Central Railway Station – approx. 4 km
Chennai Egmore Railway Station – approx. 3 km
Metro Station: Nearest metro stations accessible via connecting transport
Nearby Landmarks: Adjacent to Taj Connemara hotel and close to major banks, insurance companies, and tourist offices
The mall is strategically located in the heart of Chennai's Central Business District on Anna Salai (Mount Road), making it easily accessible from various parts of the city and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
Spencer Plaza is well connected by road and public transport. The mall is located on Anna Salai (Mount Road) in the heart of Chennai's Central Business District, which provides excellent connectivity to Chennai city center and surrounding areas. Public bus services operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) provide regular connectivity to the area. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly, offering convenient access for visitors. The mall is easily accessible from major railway stations, with Chennai Egmore Railway Station being just 3 km away, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local shoppers and tourists. Parking facilities are available from the basement up to the third floor, with additional double basement parking. The mall operates from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and extends its hours until 10:00 PM on weekends. Spencer Plaza remains a significant commercial and architectural landmark, preserving the legacy of India's first department store while serving as a modern retail destination.