CHENNAI
About Chennai

Chennai, or Madras as it was called before, on the Coromandel Coast, is the capital city of Tamil Nadu, a State of the Indian Subcontinent. It is a major industrial, commercial, cultural, economic, and educational center of Southern India. Chennai City is the sixth largest populated Indian city. It is known as the "Detroit of India" because of many automobile industries. 

Beautiful Beaches, day leisure outlets, Modern Sea Port & Airport, Long and beautiful Highways, Convenient multi-Transport system, Theme parks, Industrial cities, Hi-Tech software silicon valley parks, Sophisticated Multi Speciality Hospitals, World Class Universities, High Rise Business, and Residential complexes are the present day's outlook of the great Chennai, most sought after by the people of all walks of life from all parts of the world. 

While the city was the seat of power for many South Indian kingdoms through the ages, the documented history began in the colonial times when the British stepped on the shores of Chennai and settled with the establishment of Fort St. George in1644. 

Tourist Attractions In Chennai : 21

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1: Government Museum
Government Museum
It's the second oldest museum, next to Kolkata & a multi-purpose State Government Museum in Egmore. Six independent buildings have 46 galleries. It is rich in archaeological, numismatic, & largest Roman collections too. Buddhist Ruins from Amaravathi find a prominent place here. Housed across the British-built Pantheon Complex, this excellent museum is the best in Chennai. The big highlight is 3rd building, the Bronze Gallery, with a superb collection of South Indian bronzes from the 7th century Pallava era through to modern times and English-language explanatory material. Another building, the Anthropology Galleries, traces South Indian human history back to prehistoric times, displaying tribal artifacts from across the region. 
 
2: Vivekananda House
Vivekananda House
The marshmallow-pink Vivekananda House is famous not only for its displays of the famous wandering monk, Swami Vivekananda but also for its semicircular form, built-in 1842 to store ice imported from the USA. Vivekananda stayed here briefly in 1897 and preached his ascetic Hindu philosophy to adoring crowds. The displays include a photo exhibition of the swami's life and the room where Vivekananda stayed, now used for meditation. Free weekly one-hour meditation classes may be available. 
 
3: Victory War Memorial
Victory War Memorial
To explore the vibrant heroic past of India, visit the War Memorial of Chennai. The memorials are dedicated to those soldiers who laid their lives for the welfare of the nation as well as those who died as martyrs, serving their nation. These memorials in honor of the Freedom Fighters are on a stretch of land near Raj Bhavan, the Residence of the Governor of Tamil Nadu. Each of the leaders honored is different from the others in terms of approach and activity, but with a common goal-OUR NATION.
 
4: Kattubava Mosque
Kattubava Mosque
Almost 500 years old in its construction, the Kattubava Mosque, or Kattubava Pallivasal, is a famous mosque in Tamil Nadu located on the Padukkottai-Madurai Highways. It is among the notable Islamic Pilgrim Centres in India. A beautifully built structure, the Kattubava Mosque entombs a saint called Bava Fakruddin. Popularly known as Kattubava, he was the grandson of the honorable saint of Nagore Shahul Hameed. The mosque looks as peaceful from its exteriors as it is from within. The architecture of the mosque is truly phenomenal, with exquisite detailing. The Kattubava Mosque stands as a symbol of peace and harmony & is visited by both Hindus and Muslims in Tamil Nadu. 
 
5: The Big Mosque
The Big Mosque
The Big Mosque Chennai is located in the Janbazar area of Triplicane in Chennai, along Wallajah Road. It is one of the most beautiful mosques in this capital city. Constructed in 1795, the Big Mosque Chennai is one of the important historical monuments of Chennai. The architecture embodies the fusion of Indian, Islamic, and Iranian influences. The Big Mosque of Chennai has the distinction of being one of the most beautiful shrines in Chennai. The Big Mosque Chennai is an impressive architectural specimen and tourist destination, known to be frequented regularly by a large number of visitors to the city of Chennai. 
 
6: Kandaswamy Temple
Kandaswamy Temple
The Kandaswamy Temple of Chennai is in Cheyyur, 29 kilometers from Madurantakam. You can reach the temple from Chennai by bus, rail, or road. The nearest railway station to Cheyyur is the Chenglepattu. Besides this settlement, these rulers constructed three temples, among which the Kandaswamy Temple of Chennai is the most well-known. The Kandaswamy Temple of Chennai is between the Shiva and the Vishnu temples. Lord Kandaswamy or Lord Shiva is the principal deity of this temple. The Kandaswamy Temple of Chennai attracts tourists due to the different figures standing in specific postures. 
 
7: Kapaleeshwar Temple
Kapaleeshwar Temple
Located in Mylapore, Kapaleeshwar temple is dedicated to Shiva. As per the Puranas, Shiva was worshipped as a peacock by Shakti. Peacock is called Mayil in Tamil, giving the place the vernacular name Mylapore. At Kapaleeshwar temple, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Kapaleeswarar and his consort Parvati is as Karpagambal. The temple is an architectural splendor with towering gopurams and intricate carvings.
 
8: Dash-n-splash
Dash-n-Splash
Dash-n-Splash in Chennai is an amusement park located about 30 kilometers from Chennai. The park is on national highway number 4, which leads to Bangalore. Dash-n-Splash of Chennai is a water retreat that covers a huge area in the Mevallur Kuppam Village. The park has plenty of water reservoirs and shaded locations, which give total family refreshments. The Wave Slide, Free-Fall Slide & Spiral slide at Dash-n-Splash of Chennai give lifetime joy and excitement.
 
9: Covelong Beach
Covelong Beach
Covelong Beach, sited on the way to Mahabalipuram, has transmogrified into an exclusive, classy beach resort located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, where the shining sun, calm sea, and shimmering sand form a unique aura of cheerfulness and magnetism. Its surroundings are enthralling and pleasing, providing people with inner peace & happiness away from the hustle and bustle of a routine. Flanked by attractive and uplifting palm trees and glittering white sand with fascinating and colorful sea shells, the picturesque beauty of this place makes it a well-known tourist destination.
 
10: Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Arignar Anna Zoological Park
The Arignar Anna Zoological Park of Chennai is one of the most contemporary zoos in the country & as well as in South East Asia. Situated in the Vandalur area of the Kanchipuram district, the park is about 35 kilometers from the metropolitan city. This park covers 510 hectares of land and is one of the biggest in Southeast Asia. It shelters more than 170 species of animals that wander independently on an island. This Zoological Park is open throughout the week except for Tuesdays. The daily visiting hours are from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. 
 
11: St. Thomas Mount
St. Thomas Mount
Historically speaking, the commencement of Christianity in India is credited to St. Thomas. Saint Thomas spread the 'Good Word' among the South Indians. However, some critical circumstances led him to take refuge in the fabled Little Mount. Later, while he was on his way to Little Mount, about 3 kilometers away, he was martyred & that place is still remembered for him and aptly called St. Thomas Mount. It is located in Parangimalai and is one of the most attractive spots for tourists & as well as for religious devotees in Chennai.
 
12: Mgm Dizzee World
MGM Dizzee World
The MGM Dizzee world is on East Coast Road. Opened from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, it is bustling with people throughout the week, with 35-acre area coverage that comes with a beach, a resort, amusement park, which makes for a great trip. The rides include Giant Wheel, Parachute Tower, Kamikaze Ranger, Roller coaster, and Rocking Boat, & others. Revolution and Venture rides are hot favorites among teens. 
 
13: Ayyappan Temple
Ayyappan Temple
The Ayyappan temple has the Panchaloka idol of Ayyappan and other deities such as Ganesha, Anjaneyar, Durga, and Muruga. The temple is a product of teamwork & accordingly serves a large number of community initiatives through which people come together. This temple has also received several awards for being the cleanest and best-maintained temple in the city besides having high aesthetic significance. The main attractive feature of this temple is its architecture which resembles Keralite temples.
 
14: Vgp Universal Kingdom
VGP Universal Kingdom
The VGP Universal Kingdom, commonly known as VGP, is located on East Coast Road. It is open from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm on weekdays and till 7:30 pm during weekends. This pioneer among amusement parks in Chennai is known for its safety. The place is both affordable & as well as holds much promise for fun and entertainment. The Giant Wheel and Rain Dance are its key attractions. It also has a beach nearby. Rides for kids available here are the best ones available in the city. 
 
15: Fort St. George
Fort St. George
Historically famous as White Town, the fort has taken its name from St. George, believed to have had a significant influence in the region during that era and whose birthday coincides with the day of completion of the construction of the fort. The fort is considered the first establishment of the British in India. Initially erected as a trading post, it later served as the origin of the modern Indian Army. The fort holds great historical importance and is looked after by the Archaeological Survey of India. After Independence, the Archaeological Survey of India declared the fort a protected monument. 
 
16: Mahalingapuram Sree Ayyappa Temple
Mahalingapuram Sree Ayyappa Temple
Mahalingapuram Sree Ayyappa Temple is located in the busy Nungambakkam area of Chennai. The temple opens in the morning for customary rituals and remains open to devotees till 9:00 pm. Many people come here hoping to cherish a calm state of mind. The magazine published by this temple is called Pushpabhishekam. Devotees bring turmeric, vermilion, flowers, and coconut to offer to the Gods.    
 
17: Velakanni Church
Velakanni Church
Velakannai Church, called the Mecca of Christians, is the principal shrine of Mother Mary, where she is admired and revered as the Lady of Health. Take some time on a trip to Chennai to see the striking church situated at Elliot's Beach at Basant Nagar. The Annai Velankanni Church is located in Besant Nagar and remains open throughout the week. Velankanni Church is among the most revered pilgrimage destination visited by people from all around the world. The church also has a museum that displays valuables crafted out of gold & silver.    
 
18: Marina Beach
Marina Beach
Known as the Pride of Chennai, Marina beach stretches for about 13 kilometers making it the second-longest beach in the country. The urban beach has white sand & is considered one of the cleanest & busiest beaches in India. The beach is one of the most prominent open spaces in Chennai & is host to many important national and cultural events like the parades on Independence Day and Republic Day. The annual Chennai Marathon, India’s biggest city marathon, starts from Anna Square near Marina beach. The Pongal celebration in January attracts an estimated 150,000 people to the beach for the festivities.
 
19: Golden Beach
Golden Beach
Located at the East Coast Road, the VGP Golden Beach borders the Bay of Bengal & it takes about half an hour to go from Marina Beach to Golden Beach. It's a resort with an amusement park offering rides like go-karting, water chute, and roller coaster, among many others. 
 
20: Parthasarathy Temple
Parthasarathy Temple
The Parthasarathy Temple, also known as Arulmigu Parthasarathyswamy, is a Vaishanavite temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna is in the form of Parthasarathy, the charioteer for Arjuna in the Mahabharata war. Here all four forms of Lord Vishnu can be worshipped in a single place, which further increases its importance among people making pilgrimages to holy places. This temple has two entrances, one leading to Lord Parthasarathy's shrine, along with goddesses Rukmini and Sathyabama's, and the other to Lord Narasimha's shrine, where he lies in a yogic pose.  
 
21: Vadapalani Temple
Vadapalani Temple
The Vadapalani temple, also called Arulmigu Vadapalani Andavar Thirukoil, is a temple dedicated to Lord Muruga and is known for its powers in blessing. This temple was built during the 17th century and has gained popularity as the years have passed. Lord Muruga blesses his devotees while wearing chappals, which are said to have divine powers. There is also a shrine for Mars, as Muruga is said to be the Deity of the planet Mars. The temple has a golden chariot, used during festivals and special occasions, and is on full public display. It lies in T. Nagar between Koyambedu and Ashok Nagar.    
 
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How To Reach Chennai

By Air - Chennai has both domestic and international airports. Chennai is well connected to several Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Ahmadabad, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Kochi, Port Blair, etc.

 

By Train - Chennai Central, Egmore and Tambaram are the three railway stations in Chennai. Chennai is well connected to most major parts of the country like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Goa, Ahmadabad, Bhubaneswar, Bilaspur, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Ernakulam, Gaya, Gorakhpur, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Jammu, Jodhpur, Kanyakumari, Mangalore, Madurai, Patna, Pondicherry, Jamshedpur, Thiruvananthapuram, etc.

 

By Road - Chennai is well connected by 5 highways to all the major cities as well as states. Chennai bus station is considered as Asia's largest bus station. It has a great frequency of buses to and from Chennai. This connectivity makes Chennai a place most visited by tourists.

 

Chennai Metro Rail - Chennai Metro Rail is a new part of underground rapid transit system for moving around the city much easier. Line 1 goes from the airport to Teynampet, Thousand Lights, Central train station, the High Court and Washermanpet in northern Chennai, running beneath Anna Salai for several kilometres. Line 2 goes from Central train station west to Egmore and the CMBT then south to St Thomas Mount.

 

Other Modes - Taxis and rickshaws are easily available from the station to reach anywhere in the city. There are pre-paid auto rickshaw booths outside the CMBT and Central station, and 24-hour pre-paid stands with fare charts outside the north and south exits of Egmore station. Both airport terminals have pre-paid taxi kiosks. There's a pre-paid taxi stand outside the south side of Egmore station.
 

Traditional Food (Regional cusine of Chennai)

Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu in South India, offers a diverse and delectable range of traditional dishes. Here are some famous dishes and places to eat in Chennai:

 

1. Idli and Sambar:

   - Specialty: Soft, steamed rice cakes (idli) served with a spicy lentil soup (sambar) and coconut chutney.

   - Where to Try: Murugan Idli Shop and Saravana Bhavan are renowned for their idli and sambar.

 

2. Dosa:

   - Specialty: Thin, crispy pancakes made from fermented rice and lentil batter, often stuffed with potatoes (masala dosa).

   - Where to Try: Sangeetha's and Ratna Cafe serve delicious dosas.

 

3. Chettinad Cuisine:

   - Specialty: Spicy and flavorful dishes, such as Chettinad Chicken Curry and Chettinad Fish Curry.

   - Where to Try: Explore Chettinad restaurants like Anjappar and Karaikudi Chettinad Restaurant.

 

4. Filter Coffee:

   - Specialty: Strong and aromatic South Indian coffee served with frothy milk and sugar.

   - Where to Try: Mylapore and Triplicane areas have numerous local coffee shops.

 

5. Biryani:

   - Specialty: Fragrant rice cooked with aromatic spices and meat or vegetables.

   - Where to Try: Buhari Hotel and Aasife Biryani are famous for their biryani.

 

6. Pongal:

   - Specialty: A comforting dish made from rice and lentils, often seasoned with black pepper, cumin, and ghee.

   - Where to Try: Pongal is commonly available at local breakfast eateries.

 

7. Chennai Beach Sundal:

   - Specialty: A popular beach snack made from boiled legumes, typically garnished with coconut and spices.

   - Where to Try: Marina Beach and Besant Nagar Beach are popular spots to enjoy sundal.

 

8. Kozhukattai:

   - Specialty: Steamed or fried rice dumplings, sweet or savory, often prepared during festivals.

   - Where to Try: Local sweet shops and eateries serve Kozhukattai.

 

9. Chennai Seafood:

   - Specialty: Fresh seafood preparations, including fish curry, prawn masala, and crab masala.

   - Where to Try: Restaurants like Kaaraikudi and Grand Sweets and Snacks offer seafood dishes.

 

10. Grand Sweets and Snacks:

    - Specialty: A famous sweets and snacks shop known for its Mysore Pak, Badam Halwa, and other traditional treats.

 

11. Murugan Idli Shop:

    - Specialty: A renowned restaurant chain specializing in South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa, and vada.

 

12. Saravana Bhavan:

    - Specialty: A popular vegetarian restaurant chain offering a wide range of South Indian dishes.

 

13. Anjappar:

    - Specialty: A well-known Chettinad restaurant serving spicy and flavorful dishes.

 

Chennai's cuisine showcases the rich and diverse flavors of South India. These dishes and eateries provide a delightful experience for food enthusiasts visiting the city. Enjoy your culinary journey in Chennai!

Weather & Quick Info Of Chennai

 

Chennai is a famous tourist destination perfect for beach lovers & adventure seekers. 

 

The best Months To Visit are from October to February.

 

The ideal time required to explore Chennai is 3-4 days.

 

Chennai has many nearby tourist destinations like Ooty, Coorg, Pondicherry & many more.

 

Best Hotels In Chennai

Chippy Inn
Price: ₹ 1800.00

Updated Apr 15

Hotel
  • 53, Mgr Main Road, Perungudi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

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  • Near By: Perungudi
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  • Amenities: Concierge Desk,Wifi,Restaurant or Fine Dine Area,Laundry Facilities,Room Service
  • 14.5 km
    16.8 km
Arunaachalaa Residency
Price: ₹ 2500.00

Updated Apr 14

Hotel
  • 34 Wallaja Road, Chepauk, Opp. Kalaivanar Arangam Chennai 600002, Tamil Nadu, India

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  • Near By: Wallaja Road
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  • Amenities: Spa/Saloon, Conference Or Meeting Rooms, Restaurant or Fine Dine Area
  • 18.3 km
    4.2 km

Best Travel Agents In Chennai

Jim Corbett National Park
 
Price: Available on Enquiry

Updated 30 Oct 2017

Adventure
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  • Organizer : Madrs Travels And Tours
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Sabarimalai Package
 
Price: ₹ 15900/person

Updated 30 Oct 2017

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