Chennai Travel

Overview
Chennai: The Capital of the South

Located on the Coromandel Coast, Chennai is fondly acknowledged as the 'Capital of the South' for its rich diversity, historic lineage and cultural traditions. Its luring auto-mobile growth has earned it the name of 'the Detroit of India.' Over the past decade, Chennai has also witnessed a tremendous growth in tourism, surpassing the bustling metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi. After all, the rich culture of South India, with its intense, dynamic and enduring longevity definitely leaves a remarkable memory.

The cloth merchants, spice traders and seafarers have been the significant part of Chennai's ancient history. Babylonian, Roman, Phoenician, Greek and Chinese traders had years of trade/commerce relations with Chennai. With 400 years of prominent history, this city has also witnessed administration by Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas and the rulers of the Vijaynagar Kingdom. Over the years, it also evolved as a battleground for oppositional forces between the Kingdom of Mysore, French and British forces.  After 1947, it was declared the capital of Tamil Nadu State, thereby reflecting the diversity of South India.

Following are the main attractions of Chennai:

Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Flauting an exquisite Dravidian architecture, this temple was built in the 7th Century CE. One can spot fragmented inscriptions embellished on the entrances, presumably dating back to 1250 AD. Revered as Lord Shiva's shrine, the form of Goddess Parvati being worshipped here is called as 'Karpagambal.' This name means 'Goddess of the wish yielding tree.' The 37 metre tall gopuram ( tower) of the Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of its majestic features.

San Thome Basilica: Portuguese explorers had built this Roman Catholic Basilica in Chennai in the 16th century. The Neo-Gothic style of architecture can be spotted here. The significant articles related to St. Thomas, one of the disciples of Jesus, is also preserved in a museum in the basilica.

Marina Beach: With more than 30,000 visitors recorded on weekdays, the Marina Beach, embroidering the Bay of Bengal is filled with action, people and frolic. Also known as one of the longest beaches in India, this 3 km long stretch of sand is bustling with fortune tellers, kite runners, fish markets, foreigners and natives.

St. Thomas Mount: Located quite close to the Chennai airport, this hillock preserves the hill shrine. It is believed that St. Thomas the Apostle had eventually attained his martyrdom here. It also connects the history of Syrian Christians with India. The panoramic view of the entire city of Chennai from the top is simply breathtakingly beautiful.

Excursions from Chennai: Travellers can further explore the nearby locations such as Muttukadu ( 36 km), Crocodile Bank (40 km), Mahabalipuram (60 km),  Pulicat (60 km) and Thanjavur (310 km).

 

Shopping in Chennai: The main shopping markets in Chennai are located at Mylapore, Egmore, George Town, Anna Nagar, Panagal Park and Pondy Bazaar. Few of the shopping items include leaf handicrafts, pattamara mats, brass and bronze castings, Kanchipuram silk and traditional jewellery.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Chennai is from November to February. Tourists can also explore Chennai during the times of festivals like Pongal (January), Indian International Leather Festival ( February) and Madras Music Season (December).

 

How to Visit:
Air: Chennai’s Anna International airport is easily connected with domestic and international flights.
Rail: Chennai Central, the main railway station is known for flawless connectivity with the major cities of India.

Road: State owned tourist buses connect Chennai with other parts of South India.