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Chennai ( Tamil : சென்னை Ceṉṉai ), formerly Madras , is the capital of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu . With a population of 8.6 million (2011 census), Chennai's urbanised area is the most populous in Southern India and the fourth most populous in India. It is on the east coast of peninsular India.
Though Chennai traces its history to Fort St George and the adjoining village of Madrasapattinam founded by the British East India Company in 1640, some residential districts of the city are older. The name Madras was changed to Chennai in 1997 by a special act of the Tamil Nadu legislature.
Chennai has an extremely hot and humid climate—especially in the month of May, and has heavy rains during monsoons (July to November). The worst of the heat can be avoided by visiting from November to February..
For travel purposes, this article covers the Chennai Metropolitan Area , a region of 5,904 km 2 (2,280 sq mi) . It consists of several municipalities, the largest of which, the Corporation of Chennai , is spread along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. The Corporation of Chennai can divided roughly along Coovum and Adyar rivers into North, Central and South.
A coastal site that has been inhabited since the Stone Age, what is now Chennai was ruled by the Three Crowned Kings (Chola, Chera and Pandya dynasties) for most of its history. In medieval times, it came within the control of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Chennai is associated with one of the twelve apostles in Christianity , Thomas. He is believed to have gone to evangelise in India and died in Mylapore, today a neighbourhood of Chennai. The two modern suburbs of Chennai, St Thomas Mount and Santhome, were named in Thomas' honour. In 1522, the Portuguese came to the area, built a port and accordingly named it São Tomé after Saint Thomas.
Chennai the modern city was founded by the British East India Company in 1639. The company purchased the land from the local Nayak or chieftain on 22 August 1639, which is why Chennai nowadays celebrates its birthday every year on 22 August. It was one of the British East India Company's first outposts in India. The company built Fort St. George which is now the administrative and legislative seat of Tamil Nadu state. Over time, George Town absorbed many nearby boroughs and grew into becoming the current metropolis of Chennai.
In 1996, the Tamil Nadu government changed the name of the city from Madras, the name adopted during British rule, to Chennai, which it says is the original name of the city.
The name Madras comes from Madraspattinam , which is what the British called the site when they settled here. Its origin is uncertain. Tradition suggests that a fishing village near to the location of the British settlement was called Madraspattinam. Others think that the early Portuguese voyagers may have called the area Madre de Sois after an early settler, or Madre de Deus after an early church (of St. Mary).
Chennai is derived from Chennapattinam , a name with almost equally uncertain origins. Tradition has it that Chennapattinam was the name of a fishing village near the location of Madraspattinam. However, it is not clear if the village was there beforehand or grew up around the British Madraspattinam settlement.
As the settlements grew, the location of Chennapattinam and Madraspattinam became confused as the two settlements merged into a single town.
Under British rule, what was then Madras gradually became an important administrative centre and was linked to the other big cities by rail, including Mumbai and Kolkata. Madras was the capital city of the Madras Presidency , a subdivision that governed the areas of South India under direct British control. Upon India's independence, the city continued to be the capital of Madras State . After many of India's states were renamed and reorganised on the basis of language, Chennai became the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu.
For centuries, Chennai has been the gateway to Southern India, with a vastly different culture from the other big cities of the country. Tamil culture and tradition at its core celebrates beauty. This is revealed in its dance, sculpture and clothing. Chennai's demographics show a more diverse population than the rest of Tamil Nadu. The traditional art forms, music, dance of Tamil Nadu thrive here. The cuisine uniquely blends traditional foods, fast food and filter coffee. The architecture varies from age-old temples, to colonial buildings and twenty-first century skyscrapers. Western and Indian classical music flourish in Chennai, along with a booming nightlife. There are dance schools teaching anything from traditional Bharatnatyam to Salsa. There are music schools teaching you how to play the veena, violin, guitar or drums just about everywhere. Chennai reflects its traditional heritage from December to January during the height of the music festival. The clothing locals wear is generally conservative by Western standards but the younger generation wear contemporary.
Its coastal position and closeness to the equator makes Chennai's climate humid and tropical all year round.
Chennai predominantly has two seasons - summer from April to June (35-42°C (95-108°F)), the highest temperature recorded was 45°C (113°F) in 2003) and the monsoon from October to December. The city barely gets any rain from the southwest monsoon (Jun-Sep), but receives copious amounts from the northeast monsoon from October through to December, every year amounting to between 125 and 150 cm (49 and 59 in) of rain. During some seasons, Chennai gets a greater amount of rainfall if there are depressions in the Bay of Bengal.
The period from December through to February is the mildest in terms of temperature, where the daily range on average is 19-28°C (66-82°F). Be sure to take along thin and light clothing.
Chennai is a good morning city where all restaurants, shops and public transportation facilities are in full swing well before 6AM. Traffic is in full strength well before 8AM.
Tamil is the most widely spoken language in the city and the official language of the state of Tamil Nadu. However, English is well-understood and considerably well known in the city, with most of the well-educated upper class being fluent in English. The dialect of Tamil used by the locals is called Madras Bashai and includes a disproportionately high chunk of the English, Telugu, Sanskrit, Hindi and Urdu vocabulary and their derivatives. White-collared professionals use Tanglish , a form of conversational Tamil containing a large number of English words. Both forms of Tamil are different from the dialects spoken in other parts of the state and are often viewed upon contemptuously by Tamil purists.
Telugu is spoken by a quarter of the city's population. Chennai is less than 60 km from the Telugu-speaking Andhra Pradesh border. Most Telugu-speakers are settled in Chennai for generations and are usually bilingual in both Tamil and Telugu. However, the Telugu script is far-less understood and very few are literate in the language.
As the centre of anti-Hindi agitations from the 1930s and the 1960s, the city has cherished a deep-rooted animosity for Hindi. However, since the 1980s, when the much-politicised rhetoric against Hindi began to tone down, tolerance for Hindi has been growing. Nevertheless, Hindi is still not widely spoken or understood by locals, so if you don't speak Tamil, you will be better off trying English, even that may not be useful everywhere. Learning a few phrases in Tamil may be highly useful, especially when interacting with locals.
Transport options into city centre:
Use the prepaid taxi to reach the central business district. Every terminal has many taxi booths when you leave the airport. Fast Track has the best rep, figure on around ₹560 to the city centre for a Toyota Innova or equivalent. The fares differ for the international and domestic terminals though the terminals are next to each other. You can either choose the standard taxis (black with yellow tops) or the private call-taxi (which can come in any colour). It is better to have some loose change when paying at the counters. The taxi number is written on your charge slip. One copy is for the passenger while the other is for the driver to collect the fare from the counter. Make your way to the taxi stand and get the taxi number allotted at the designated desk. The helpful drivers will offer to take your luggage and guide you to the taxi that drives up quickly near the allotment desk.
"Fasttrack" pre-paid taxi service has booths in the domestic and international terminals. Comparing with the rest of the taxis their fare and service is pretty much good. Depends on your need you can get from Maruti van to Toyota Innova.
The prepaid and yellow top taxis are not air-conditioned, were made in the 1970s and 80s, are rickety and are prone to stop midway in a journey. The drivers sometimes exhibit rough dangerous behaviour and can demand exorbitant fares. The "prepaid" may mean nothing and they may demand more when you get down. Stay away from these types of taxis.
Aviation Express is very overpriced.
Ola and Uber have become more prominent and travellers can easily book a journey on these services using a smart phone. They are generally cheaper than all prepaid taxis.
The Blue Line 1 of the Chennai Metro connects the airport to MGR Chennai Central. There's also an inter-corridor service along the Green Line 2 that follows the Blue Line from Airport to Alandur.
Trains that connect Chennai to major hubs like Bangalore , Mumbai and Delhi are usually booked out days in advance. If you plan to travel by train, consider making a reservation, the reservation opens 120 days before the day of travel. The AC compartments in the trains are preferable for new travellers as the sleeper class and sitting class compartments are generally very crowded. A 3-tier AC berth from Chennai to Bangalore or Coimbatore costs around ₹700 and that to Delhi is around ₹2500 including meals.
All buses terminate near Koyambedu but there are different stands for state-owned (CMBT) and private buses (Omni bus terminus). The two terminals are near each other, and it is better to tell your exact destination to the taxi/auto-rickshaw driver. Buses usually drop passengers at various points in the city before reaching the terminus. Ask the driver or fellow passengers at the closest drop-off point to your destination.
Several private players also operate buses between most southern destinations. During the weekends most buses are fully occupied and it's better to reserve a ticket in advance. All buses terminate near Koyambedu but there are different stands for state-owned (CMBT) and private buses (Omni bus terminus). The two terminals are near each other, and it is better to tell your exact destination to the taxi/auto-rickshaw driver. Buses usually drop passengers at various points in the city before reaching the terminus. Feel free to ask the driver or fellow passengers for the closest drop-off point to your destination.
Chennai is very well connected to other parts of India by road. Five major national highways radiate outward towards Kolkata, Bangalore, Tiruchirappalli , Madurai , Tiruvallur , and Pondicherry. With the progress of the Golden Quadrilateral project, driving down from Bangalore is an option too. There are many car rental companies available.
Getting around the heart of Chennai city often takes time, due to traffic and heavy congestion. So it is advisable to plan your journey accordingly. Travelling within Chennai is not so cheap by Indian metropolitan standards, and is quite cheap by European and USA standards.
Chennai has a suburban train network . There are six suburban lines as of June 2023:
The suburban trains are generally reliable and fast. The frequency of suburban trains is generally good and it is advisable to take a first-class ticket during peak hours. Trains offer a reliable alternative to quickly reach your destination when compared to buses which might get trapped in traffic jams. The fare in Chennai suburban trains is the lowest in the country and you don't have to compromise comfort for the meagre amount that you pay as in other Indian metros. There is a separate ladies' compartment in the suburban trains that are relatively less crowded even in peak hours. The lowest second-class train fare is ₹5. However, you might need to wait even for almost half an hour in a queue for a ticket during peak hours. So it would be best if you buy a card that is available at every station that can be used to buy tickets from a ticket vending machine that almost nobody uses. Always keep your baggage safe when you are travelling in the suburban railway system.
The Mass Rapid Transit System MRTS is an elevated railway line from Chennai Beach to Velachery. It is very similar to the suburban railway and only suburban trains run through it.
The Chennai Metro is regularly being extended. As of June 2023, there are two metro lines:
Three new metro lines are under construction and are expected to open partially by as soon as 2026. The Blue and Green lines intersect at MGR Chennai Central and Alandur. Besides, there's an inter-corridor service along the Green Line that follows the Blue Line from Airport to Alandur.
The maximum fare between Chennai Airport to Nehru Park (which is 1½ km from Egmore and 2½ km from MGR Chennai Central) is ₹60 per person. The Tourist Travel Card offers unlimited travel within the Chennai Metro network for a day. It costs ₹100, of which ₹50 when it is returned. Chennai Metro has baggage checking like the airport and is very safe.
Also, tourists can use the Chennai Metro Rail app (Google Play Store/Apple iTunes). The app provides details about train timings, exit gates and platforms, fares between two stations, the nearest metro station, and how to reach the station by car, public transport and walking.
Metropolitan Transport Corporation buses ply throughout the city. These are government-run and extremely cheap.
Normally bus fares in MTC range from ₹4-30. State corporation also has Deluxe and A/C Buses for Chennai Passengers. The fare for the deluxe bus is almost two times as compared to the normal bus. For the same route, deluxe and normal buses have the same number but deluxe buses are being run targeting long-distance journeys since they will stop at major bus stops only. So if you find normal buses too crowded, take a deluxe one. Non-AC deluxe also have power gates and better suspension which you won't find in the normal bus. If you have luggage with you, you might have to pay the cost of an extra person depending upon its size.
MTC Chennai operates an AC bus service between important routes like Parrys - Tambaram, Parrys - CMBT, Chennai Central - CMBT, Chennai central - Tambaram, etc. The most frequent AC bus runs between CMBT towards Pondicherry and is known as the East coast road (ECR) bus and is very popular for intracity travel too.
Daily and weekly bus passes are available for tourists costing ₹50 or ₹300. They can be used on normal and deluxe bus services (but not AC) on all routes within the city. It is worthwhile to purchase the daily pass if you plan to visit more than a couple of places in a day and it will save you from the trouble of maintaining loose change. The daily pass can be purchased on the first bus you board from the conductor, while the weekly and monthly passes are sold at kiosks in major termini.
Bus route information for MTC Chennai is available online at official site and Jaanlo .
State Express Transport Corporation buses go to different parts of the state. Private carriers also run to other towns/cities in the state. You can buy these bus tickets online at redBus or readIndia or RathiMeena or Myticketbuddy [ dead link ] .
Chennai has about 71,000 autorickshaws.
The fares of Chennai auto-rickshaws have been an enormous political topic for many years and have contributed to the perception that the city's auto-rickshaw drivers never use meters and continually fleece passengers. However, despite the reputation, trips by auto rickshaw actually are quick, but rarely based on the metered price.
The minimum fare is set at ₹25 for the first 1.8 km and ₹12/km for every additional kilometre (2013). Waiting charges were set at ₹3.50 for every five minutes and ₹42 per hour. Between 11PM and 5 AM, the fare is 50% higher than the normal daytime rate.
Auto rickshaw meters are being outfitted with GPS and electronic digital receipt printers. As of 2015, though, only a small fraction of autos have these features.
Despite the official fares, the situation as of 2015 is for the driver and passenger to agree before the ride begins to a price of a) meter, b) meter + some additional amount, or c) a fixed price.
Whether the auto driver will agree to a metered fare depends on many factors. Generally, many drivers will agree to a fare of a meter plus ₹10-30 additional. But at busy times such as rush hours on weekdays, almost no drivers will agree to the metered price and will insist on a fixed price, or at a minimum demand a fare of meter plus ₹30-100. On the other hand, at slower times, for example, Sundays, many drivers will agree to metered prices with no surcharge. Some drivers will simply never accept metered fares no matter what time it is.
The fixed prices that auto drivers demand is related to distance. They generally have a good sense of how much the fare would be for a given route and ask for fixed prices around double what it would cost by the meter. For shorter distances which would cost ₹25-50 by the meter, the fixed price demanded is ₹100-150. For longer distances which would cost ₹50-150 per meter, the fixed price demanded will be ₹200-300. Depending on the situation, it's possible to negotiate down the demanded fixed price.
For short distances up to 1.8 km, auto drivers as of 2015 very rarely will agree to the metered price of ₹25. Generally, ₹40-50 is the minimum most will require for any trip, although at off-peak hours, it might be possible with negotiation and speaking to many autos to find a driver who will agree to ₹30-40. For a typical trip in the city of 3-5 km, many drivers will demand ₹100-150, but at non-peak hours a fare of ₹50-₹0 will usually be sufficient after speaking to a few drivers.
At all times, the price agreed depends very much on the passenger's knowledge of the distance involved and the price it would cost by meter, his/her negotiation skill, and the time s/he is willing to spend asking auto after auto. In almost any central area, there are many autos around, so if you have the time, it's possible to save quite a bit by speaking to many auto drivers until you find an acceptable fare.
Many passengers now opt for Ola, Uber or other similar taxi-order services simply to avoid the frustration and time involved with negotiating with auto after auto.
All autos in Chennai have meters, but at least a quarter of drivers have disabled their meter in some way in order to make it not functional and the passenger must agree to a fixed price if s/he wants to use that auto. For those meters that function, you can see the price, kilometres and waiting time, and thereby confirm that the meter is fairly following the official tariff structure.
Share autos have emerged as an alternative mode of transport in Chennai. They are oversized three-wheelers running on diesel and charge slightly more than the bus. There are four-wheelers known as meter taxis , which don't have a meter and are not taxis. Another four-wheeler, Magic (manufactured by Tata), has started running in and around the city, which operates similarly to share autos and meter taxis. They are all overcrowded and the drivers indulge in rash driving, owing to the competition. The only advantage is that it is cost-effective.
If you are fascinated by the idea of going around in an auto, think about all those foreigners, who are riding an auto from Chennai to Mumbai.
A Chennai-based event management company, Chennai Event Management Services, has been having auto-rickshaw rallies from Chennai to Mumbai, or Kanyakumari, etc., and has developed a great fan following for them.
Taxis (locally called "call-taxis" since they must be pre-arranged) are available by phone. They are most reliable, can be ordered air-conditioned, and have digital fare meters, although time-based hire is also possible with some companies. Most companies charge a minimum fare of ₹150, which is for 5 km (3 mi) and for every subsequent kilometre they charge ₹18. Alternatively, you can hire a car for a half/full day for around ₹800/1300. These figures are for basic non-AC Ambassadors, add about 50% if you want a comfier aircon Tata Indica. Waiting charges are included in the meter cost but you are required to pay parking and toll fees in addition to the fare displayed on the meter. If your trip is time-sensitive, it's best to book your taxi a few hours in advance and call shortly before your trip to confirm.
Most prepaid taxi operators have a choice of vehicles. Indica is the ubiquitous hatchback that can seat 3 passengers, but it is almost impossible to find one well-maintained. Opt for a Figo or Liva instead of the Indica when you book the taxi, these are newer models and likely to be in a better state of maintenance. If you prefer a sedan, choices are Etios, Maruti Suzuki DZire and Ford Fiesta. SUV models Innova or Xylo have more space and are suitable for small groups (up to 7). Innova has a well-deserved reputation with travellers for airport transfers due to its reliability, spacious seats and capacity to carry more luggage.
It is generally not advisable for foreign travellers to drive on their own as they might be unaware of the traffic rules and congestion in the city. The roads in Chennai are better maintained than the average Indian road. The main highway is Anna Salai also known as Mount Road . It has been acting for a decade and still as one of the prime arterial roads of Chennai starting from Chintadripet to Alandur at the Kathipara Flyover, continuing as GST Road. It also connect the Central railway station to the International Airport. Major parts of the blue line of metro are built about this road.
The complex road routes may confuse novice drivers and it is a sheer waste of time. If you choose to rent a car, it's strongly advised to hire a driver as well. The typical driver fee comes to around ₹250 for a 4-hour shift and an additional ₹50 every hour thereafter. Outstation trips cost a driver fee of ₹750 for a 12-hour journey.
Diesel and petrol are used as fuel in India and it varies with the model of the car. Some cars have identical models with only a D badge to indicate diesel. Make sure you find out what type of fuel the car uses from the rental company.
East Coast Road ( ECR ), also known as New Mahabalipuram Road , is one of the very few places around Chennai that is best enjoyed by car. There are a lot of scenic views with many sightseeing options along the route. For most of the sights within the city limits, travellers would be better served by public transport or a taxi.
East Coast Road could very well be termed the entertainment highway of Chennai. The road is new, flanked by the sea on the left and dotted with amusement spots throughout the entire stretch. Driving down ECR is an experience. Really! You can pick and choose from amusement parks, water sports centres, beaches, eco-conservation, cultural and religious centres, restaurants or resorts to spend your day in. The road caters to practically every type of pastime that one could think about. Be prepared to pay a small toll fee.
Chennai is home to numerous churches, with the oldest being Santhome Church , named after the Christian apostle, St. Thomas, who has preached in the area between 52 and 70 CE.
Chennai has several well-known beaches. The Marina Beach in Central Chennai is the second-longest beach in the world after Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh. Chennai is home to Guindy National Park , the smallest national park in India.
Chennai is famous for its concerts and performances that take place in various auditoriums and temples throughout the year, which are announced in The Hindu and other local newspapers. During the Tamil month of Maargazhi (December - January) there is a series of classical Carnatic music concerts and classical dance performances in various parts of the city, but the best are organized in various Sabhas (loosely translates to "concert house"). You will see mostly older celebrities, although occasionally there will be some world-class young virtuosos. Free entry passes are usually given out for debutante performances (called Arangetram in Tamil) and for performances held on weekdays (before 4PM when the crowd starts filling up).
Chennai is a major centre of Bharata Natyam with over 1,000 dance performances a year. More dance forms are now encouraged and taught like Kuchipudi (Traditional dance form from Andhra Pradesh ), Mohini Attam , etc. Some other dances like Odissi Manipuri can be found, but are rarer.
When in Chennai, do not miss a chance to watch a movie. There are several new Tamil movie releases every Friday or to coincide with holidays. Apart from Tamil, movies in other Indian languages like Hindi, Kannada, Telugu and Malayalam also get wide releases in Chennai. Many of the Hollywood franchise movies enjoy a huge fan following and are screened at some theaters (dubbed) in Tamil. Make sure to book your tickets in advance especially for the weekend, because most of the cinemas will be sold out. Chennai also provides best cinematic experience at lowest cost ₹120/- and lesser, which is very less compared to other metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Check out any local newspaper or websites to get to know the movies running in and around Chennai. Some of the cinema halls are
Chennai has been one of the prominent sporting location in India, with wide variety of sports played almost everywhere right from every street corners to big stadium matches.
Cricket is a festival per se in India. Every TV in the mall is tuned to cricket during the match season and the whole city tunes in to the sport by one means or another. Chennai is an international venue for cricket and is also a home ground for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) cricket team. While in Chennai it might be interesting to catch a game and enjoy the electric spirit of Indian cricket. Close to Chepauk there are several sporting goods stores where you can buy good quality cricket equipment at low prices.
If you happen to be in Chennai in January, Chennai Book Fair is an event not to miss. Location and dates may vary annually.Plan to visit on a weekday as they attract lesser crowds and you can browse through the collections peacefully. If you pick a weekend or holiday, try to visit in the morning instead of the evening. Look through all the shops but it is usually better to skip the marquee stalls and visit the smaller ones which have books stacked all around. You will be rewarded with some great finds as these shops have lesser known but excellent titles from all around the world. Carry cash as many of the smaller shops do not accept credit/debit cards and cash also helps to bargain down the price of the books to some extent. On average, paperback novels in bargain shops cost ₹100 to ₹200. A budget of ₹3000 should be enough to purchase a good collection of books.
Chennai has dozens of different institutes of higher learning from arts to engineering. The city also offers plenty of opportunities to learn Yoga, Bhartanatyam, Carnatic music and the Bhagavad Gita.
Chennai has a wide selection of rare books and maps in the many second-hand book stalls.
For more current publications:
In addition to these there are several exhibitions at Das Community Hall (Cathedral Rd) and Shankara Hall (TTK Rd), where artisans display their work. Check the local newspapers for details and timings.
Chennai has numerous restaurants, offering an assortment of cuisine. The beach restaurants are well-maintained and serve great food during the evenings. The eat-outs in Chennai range from budget, midrange and to up-market. There are swanky star-quality restaurants, plain open traditional vegetarian or non-vegetarian restaurants- where you share a table with strangers, street stalls, tea kadais, Indian fast food centres, western fast food centres, food courts, coffee shops, bakeries to exclusive speciality establishments. Vegetarian restaurants serve tiffin and vegetarian meals. There are also a number of restaurants that serve a variety of Tamil, Andhra and Kerala vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare. Many of these restaurants have nowadays diversified and offer other Indian and Indianized Chinese dishes as well. Usually, the check includes a service charge, written next to 'S.C.' If no service charge is added, it is customary to leave a moderate tip.
The East Coast Road abounds with restaurants and eating spots, which offer a wide range of cuisines and a tasteful ambience. And you can plan your dinner or lunch in one of these hotels.
All these budget eateries serve only vegetarian food and are very cheap.
Chennai is a difficult place to drink. Government rule states that only establishments with a minimum of 21 rooms can obtain a bar or liquor license. Hence there are no standalone bars or pubs here. All the bars that are around are part of some hotel or the other and in general overpriced.
Government-run liquor stores called TASMAC are all over the place but in general not at all a pleasant experience. They usually have unpleasant staff and environment and usually will have local brands. Also, they always tend to mark up each bottle by ₹5-10 over the listed price. Go for it if you want a one-time war-like experience in order to obtain some booze!
Nightclubs close at 11PM, even on Fridays and Saturdays, according to government rule.
The closest hotels to the airport are The Trident , Le Royal Meridian , Hilton and Radisson GRT Hotel all five-star properties.
Chennai is generally a safer area of India in terms of crime, although pickpocketing, muggings, and robberies sporadically occur. Keep your doors and windows shut and locked at night and do not carry or display large amounts of cash if possible.
It is advisable for women, especially unaccompanied ones, to dress modestly and limit their interaction with unfamiliar local men. Foreigners are generally overcharged by autorickshaws simply because they are ignorant of the prevailing fares. It is necessary to confirm whether the driver knows the exact destination and to fix the fare before boarding. 'Autos', as autorickshaws are known in Chennai, are notorious for fleecing customers, tourists and locals alike.
Be alert to your surroundings and watch where you step, especially if you get caught in a large crowd where it is difficult to look at what is in front of you. Cross streets extremely carefully as traffic is generally heavy. On major roads, use the underground crossings (locally called "subways"). Avoid using underground road-crossing/ subways in the night or if you notice them to be empty. Traffic signals are frequently ignored by drivers and pedestrians alike, and it is not at all advisable for tourists to try driving in Chennai.
While in Chennai it is advisable to drink bottled water and keep a bottle handy as it is extremely hot . Eating fresh vegetables and fruits that have sat outside in the presence of insects can also be unhealthy, although bananas and coconuts are usually safe because they are opened only immediately before eating. Hot drinks in restaurants such as tea, coffee, and other local specialities are safe, as are packaged/bottled drinks such as Aquafina water, Frooti (a popular local mango drink) and others. If you have access to a stove, boiling tap water before drinking is also an option. Chennai summers are humid and sultry; it's better to step out with an umbrella , bottled water and some oral rehydration salts (available from pharmacies, the brand name is Electral ). These come in handy if you happen to get dehydrated.
BSNL and Airtel Reliance Jio, Tata, are main providers of terrestrial telephone lines in Chennai. You can make long-distance calls from one of the many booths that display NSD/ISD i.e. National Subscriber Dialling (National Long Distance) and International Subscriber Dialling (International Long Distance).
Mobile phone rates are among the cheapest in the world. There are mainly 4 service providers:
You can buy a sim card with a photo and a copy of your passport or local ID should you have any.
CDMA service providers are Reliance [ dead link ] , TATA Indicom [ dead link ] , Virgin Mobile and MTS .
Starter packs and top-up cards can be picked up from numerous outlets. Seamless roaming across the country is provided by all providers.
There are several Internet cafes from where you can access the internet for sending email or uploading your digital photos, however they are not very common now.
Mobile data is very cheap. 1.5GB per day costs around Rs.250 for 28 days. You may find it sufficient to roam throughout the city on this data.
Apart from that you can access Internet provided in your hotel or if you are staying long you can buy a local SIM card and use a portable Hotspot.
ATM cards issued by any bank will work with ATM of any other bank, but they may impose restrictions on number of transactions, amount per transaction and may also charge a small transaction fee of ₹20.
Many hotels will change money for you at the front desk. However, they may not have the best rates.
It is best to change money at the city-based money changers than the ones at the airports. The ones at the airport offer much less for exchanging forex into Indian rupees (₹) and sell forex for a much higher rate than the market rate.
The telegraph office on Anna Salai (Mount Rd), near Higgin Bothoms accepts letters and parcels up to 8PM with a small late fee. Snail Mail in India is by a Post Card (25Ps), Inland Letter ₹5, or envelope ₹5. Speed Post [ dead link ] facility allows you to send mail more conveniently than a courier service. They have a pan India coverage and also provide international service. International delivery is considerably slower than private competitors like FedEX or UPS but it is also much cheaper. Telegraph services have been discontinued from July 2013 citing very poor response.
Due to proliferation of mobile phones and VOIP, the public telephones are fast disappearing. Telephone Booths or public telephones in India can still be found near travel hotspots like the airport, railway station or CMBT and usually painted with the letters PCO (Public Call office,local calls), STD (Subscriber Trunk Dialling) and ISD (International Subscriber Dialling). All booths have electronic metering and you pay what's displayed on the meter (included in the metering is a nominal ₹2 as service charges). You'll also get a receipt if you insist on one. Coin operated phones ₹1 are located in many busy junctions (easily identified by bright yellow or red colour) but support only local calls.
Chennai, erstwhile called Madras, is one of the most noteworthy tourist places of Southern India . More than being called a tourist place, Chennai is a city that in spite of becoming one among the trendiest cities of the country, still follows its own unique traditions and cultures and has so many breathtakingly beautiful places like the beaches, sanctuaries and museums that draw tourists to the city. And that is not all. Chennai is the gateway to the Group of Monuments at Mamallapuram .
Chennai is known as one of the IT hubs of the country and is fast emerging as a significant region for medical tourism, thanks to a well developed medical infrastructure. If you would love to visit Chennai, our travel and tourism guide will help you plan a trip.
Chennai is well connected to all major cities of India . The easiest and fastest way to reach Chennai would be by flight.
Chennai has flights from most Indian cities and from overseas too. The domestic and International terminals lie close by and from the airport you can board an airport metro or suburban train to your destination.
The Egmore Railway Station caters to trains from the south, while the Central Railway Station has trains from all over India. Both stations have metro service. Otherwise there are the taxis and auto rickshaws.
Private and Government buses run between Chennai and the neighbouring states. You could also self-drive or hire a cab to reach Chennai.
Getting Around:
There are metro trains, suburban electric trains, regular and ac buses, auto rickshaws and cabs that can be used to travel in the city. If you are travelling solo, you could even rent a two wheeler.
Chennai has a tropical climate throughout the year. The best time to visit Chennai would be from the months of December to February, when it is winter and the days are pleasantly calm and are perfect for sightseeing and touring the city.
Summer (March-May):
Summer months can occasionally get the heat-wave. Chennai gets hot and sweaty and you are likely to spend the day indoors. Nights get cooler as the sea breeze blows inward and it’s lovely to sit up on the beach and watch the sun set, beyond the waves.
Monsoon (June-November):
Southwest monsoon sets in by June and quickly passes away, followed by the northeast monsoon with torrential rainfall, cyclones and floods. Monsoon is definitely not a time for tourism in Chennai.
Winter (December-February):
There are light December showers. Weather clears up by January and a pleasant season sets in with mild foggy mornings and warm, pleasant days. Winter’s the right time to pack up and arrive at Chennai.
Arts of Chennai:
Cholamandalam Artists Village is an artists’ community of contemporary art and sculpture at Injambakkam in Chennai. Visit the art gallery, amphitheatre and the museum in the village.
DakshinaChitra is a living heritage museum of the lifestyles, art, architecture and the cultural traditions of Southern India . Spend a day at DakshinaChitra and you’ll have your hands full, attending ceramic and pottery making classes, art and craft workshops for kids and grownups and visiting the crafts bazaar for garments, traditional toys, jewellery and folk crafts.
Heritage Buildings:
If you’re travelling to Chennai by train, your journey as a tourist begins with Chennai’s railway stations. The Egmore Railway Station was built in 1908, in a Gothic style with imposing domes and corridors while the Central Station built in the Gothic Revival and Romanesque styles was opened way back in 1873. Check out the 136 ft high Clock Tower in the main Heritage building of Central Station.
East Coast Road:
Take a long drive on the SH49 or East Coast Road along the Bay of Bengal all the way from Chennai to Kanyakumari . The landscape is amazingly beautiful with a view of the sea alongside and a number of heritage monuments, temples, resorts and tourist towns on the way.
Visit the Dutch Fort:
Visit Sadras or Saduranga Pattinam, an ancient town near Chennai which has the remnants of the glorious Sadras Fort built by the Dutch. Check out the cemetery with tombs dating sometime between 1620 to 1769.
Peacock Trail:
Go for a leisurely stroll along Mylapore on the Peacock Trail Walking Tour. Discuss stories on traditions and customs, about local life and about Mylapore and Chennai as you walk along.
Muttukaadu Backwaters:
Spend an evening at Muttukaadu, the beautiful backwaters of the Bay of Bengal. Go skiing, rowing or ride a water scooter on the lake. It’s fun time for the family.
Visit T. Nagar for clothes and jewellery, you’d find some of Chennai’s most popular showrooms in T. Nagar. Go to Mylapore near Kapaleshwara Temple for devotional stuff like prayer beads, incense holders, books and a wide range of bronze ware like idols and lamps, costumes and jewellery for traditional dances that would be the most charming souvenirs.
For traditional arts and craft items visit Victoria Technical Institute, and check out branded stuff in Phoenix Marketcity, Express Avenue, Spencer Plaza and Forum Vijaya Mall. Visit The Grand Sweets and Snacks and Suswaad for sweets and spiced snacks. Don’t miss out on the age old artefacts, daggers, Pashmina Shawls, sculptures, jewels, caskets etc in the Old Curiosity Shop in Mount Road. The State Government’s Poompuhar showrooms have handicrafts and handloom materials. Visit Moore market for books, gramophones, antiques, and ancient coins etc and Pallavaram Friday Market for plants and pets.
Hotel Saravana Bhavan for dosas, and vadas soaked in sambhar, Murugan Idli for idlis, Adyar Ananda Bhavan for sweets, Dindugal Talapakatti for Biryani are some of the brand names of Chennai. Try Pongal and Vadai from Rayar Mess, Keerai Vada and Pineapple Rasam from Mylapore Sri Karpagambal Mess and Kozhukattai or sweet dumplings from Maami’s Mess and Rose Milk from Kalathi Newspaper Mart.
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Chennai tourism | chennai guide, you're going to love chennai.
Chennai is a vibrant blend of coastal and urban scenery. The city formerly known as Madras was settled by the British just 400 years ago, but today it has spread to incorporate villages that are 1,000 years old.
Chennai is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu and the so-called gateway to southern India. Although most of its residents are Tamil, you'll see traces of its British, Portuguese, Dutch, and French colonists all over the city.
A superb location on the Coromandel Coast on the Bay of Bengal, a thriving art and local culture scene, and friendly locals - what's not to love about Chennai?
1. its cultural heritage.
Chennai is the cultural capital of southern India and the birthplace of Carnatic music. Visit in December for the Chennai Music Season, a month-long celebration of classical music and dance, or catch events all year round at the Music Academy and Kalakshetra Foundation.
At 7.5 miles, Marina Beach is the second longest stretch of municipal beachfront in the world, and it's a wonderful place to enjoy a sunset or sunrise. Edward Elliot's Beach is just south of Marina and has a party atmosphere by night, while quieter Breezy Beach is popular with families and tourists.
Colonial settlers built their own churches in Chennai, such as St. Mary's Church, which was Asia's first Anglican church and all that remains of the Fort St. George. Many of the city's oldest churches were built by the Portuguese, including the 16th-century Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Thomas - one of just three churches in the world to be erected on the site of a prophet's tomb. Other noteworthy churches are St. Thomas Mount, St. Matthias Church, and the 107-year-old Tamil Baptist Church in Kilpauk.
Guindy National Park is the smallest national park in the country and the only one that's in the center of a city. See Indian antelope, elephant, pangolin, and many other species in their natural habitat, or pop next door to Guindy Snake Park to see King cobra, vipers, and Indian rock python.
Whether you prefer local markets or glitzy malls, specialty shops or stores that sell the finest silks and saris, you can find them in Chennai. Try Egmore for upscale clothing stores or visit the Burma Bazaar in George Town for the pure mulberry silk of Tamil Nadu.
1. marina beach: relax in style.
Located on Kamarajar Salai Road, 3 km from the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is the Marina Beach. It's simply a little heaven on earth. Relax your mind with a horseback ride along the majestic shores and fill your lungs with the fresh air. Witness firsthand how the distant golden sun greets and leaves the beach each day and as you walk along the shores. Feel the golden sand massaging the soles of your feet as the refreshing blue waters of the sea kiss your feet.
Feast your eyes on the breathtaking carvings that tirelessly keep watch over this beautiful shrine. Be at one with the ancient gods and cleanse yourself by taking part in the daily rituals. Afterward, satisfy your curiosity by exploring the wonderfully decorated and interesting painted sculptures. The peaceful feeling that results from spending quality time in this holy place could tempt you to go back again.
Founded in 1644, this awe-inspiring wonder is known for housing St Mary's Church as well as the Fort Museum. Take the chance to reflect and pay homage to the masters of the fort when you visit the impeccable tombstones at the church's graveyard, and activate your artistic senses at the three-storey showroom. Here, colorful paintings and other invaluable works of art, such as medals and tableware, attractively grace each room.
Valluvar Kottam is a historical monument that was built in honor of India's great poet and saint Thiruvalluvar. Mesmerize yourself with the unique design of the structure that stands tall with no pillars to support it. Share in Saint Thiruvalluvar's wisdom by reading his profound work, referred to as Thirukkural, which has 133 chapters. Be spellbound by the bold lion at the main gateway that houses many carefully-crafted designs.
In the Vandalur suburb you will find the Arignar Anna Zoological Park that is a haven for plants and animals alike. Stretched beautifully across 1260 acres of lush land, the park prides itself on being a shelter to a variety of plant and animal species. View the power of the mighty lion from a safe distance and watch as the swift cheetah prowls in its natural habitat. With numerous animal species, you'll be spoilt for choice of things to see.
Street food is popular and you'll find vendors selling traditional dosa, a light crepe made from rice flour, with sambar (lentil and tamarind stew) or muttai dosai, a variant made with black lentils, all over the city. For something more filling, try Southern Indian Andhra food including biryani dishes, pickles, and chutney at Amaravathi in Cathedral Road, or visit Southern Spice at the Taj Coromandel Hotel for an upscale version. Be sure to try traditional Indian deserts like kulfis and faloodas - DOJO Kulfis (Mundaga Kanni Amman Koil St) is a Chennai institution! A meal in a mid-range restaurant costs ₹500.
Chennai can be incredibly hot with temperatures soaring to 113 degrees Fahrenheit in the middle of summer (March to October). However, thanks to its high rainfall and proximity to the coast, the city is pleasant and enjoyable for most of the year. That said, November to February is widely considered to be the best time for a vacation in Chennai. Temperatures are a little lower and you can catch events like the traditional Chennai Music Season and the Pongal Harvest Festival.
All international flights arrive at Anna Terminal in Chennai International Airport (MAA). The airport is five miles from the city center and travelers can take the suburban train service to Chennai Park or Egmore for ₹5. Alternatively, take the subway (blue line) from outside the terminal to Little Mount and then change at Alandur for St. Thomas Mount or the CMBT bus terminus (green line) - tickets cost ₹40. Pre-paid taxis are also available and the trip costs ₹300.
There are two long-distance rail stations in the city: Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore, both fairly central. Trains from the Tamil Nadu region terminate at Egmore, while daily trains from other destinations like Mumbai and Delhi arrive at Chennai Central. You can find pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws outside both stations.
Chennai is within reach of several major routes. If you're driving from Bangalore take the Grand Southern Trunk Road (National Highway 45) to connect with Anna Salai, the main road through south and central Chennai. Those coming from the direction of Tirupati can take National Highway 4, while drivers heading in from Pondicherry can follow the East Coast Road.
The Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus is one of the largest in Asia. It is served by seven state-owned bus corporations so you can always find easy connections to Chennai from cities such as Bangalore and Hyderabad. Local buses can be taken to any part of the city and there are also taxis and auto-rickshaws to rent near Koyambedu.
Airlines serving chennai, where to stay in chennai.
From the affordable to the opulent, you'll find hotels in Chennai for every occasion. Hotels such as the Lemon Tree Hotel, Ramada Chennai Egmore, or the Comfort Inn Marina Towers are great for family vacations while Le Royal Meridien, Courtyard Chennai, and the Accord Metropolitan are good luxury options.
Anna Nagar - as well as being a popular shopping district, Anna Nagar is one of the city's prime residential areas. Notable landmarks include the Anna Nagar Tower, which was built for the World Trade Fair in 1968.
George Town - one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, George Town is in the north of Chennai. The historical area is close to Fort St. George, and is also known as Parry's Corner and Muthialpet.
Egmore - this a central district that is known for its hotels and tourist attractions like the Government Museum Chennai. It lies to the north of the Coovum River and is the city's transportation hub.
Most booked hotels in chennai, how to get around chennai, public transportation.
The city has an extensive public transportation system of buses, overland trains, and a new subway. Buses, operated by Metropolitan Transport Corporation, can be crowded at busy times but they're a cheap and convenient way to get around the city. They cover over 622 routes each day and tourists can purchase daily or weekly passes for ₹50 or ₹300.
Pre-paid taxis and minicabs can be found near all major tourist attractions and a five-mile journey typically costs ₹157 during the week. Auto-rickshaws are a cheaper alternative but be sure to check that the meter is working before you board. Fares start at ₹24 for the first 1.1 miles and then ₹12 for each additional 0.62 miles.
Driving in Chennai can be difficult for visitors who don't understand the complex rules for using the city's busy roads. If you would like to rent a car, you can do so at the airport or in the city (companies include Spice Car Rental and Chennai car Travels) for ₹499 per day, but it's well worth considering a local driver. Rates are ₹250 for a four-hour shift.
Shopping streets.
There are lots of malls to choose from in Chennai. Visit Express Avenue in Royapettah High Road for brands like Hamley's, Global Desi, the Body Shop, and Esprit, or pick up the latest in menswear at Chennai Citi Center in Radhakrishnan Salai. If you prefer a more authentic approach try Pondy Bazaar in Thyagaraya Nagar (T-Nagar) for leather accessories, footwear, and cotton clothing or Ranganathan Street and South Usman Road in Panagal Park for jewelry and fine silk saris.
More Supermarket, Grace Supermarket, and Amma Nanna Supermarket Chennai are ideal for food and basics. You'll pay ₹63 for a dozen large eggs and ₹46 for a quart of whole milk.
For Outbound Tours: (Indian nationals visiting outside India)
For Domestic Tours: (Indian nationals visiting within India)
P opularly known as the "Gateway of South India", Chennai is noted for its beaches, medical tourism, bird watching sites, Fort St. George and religious destinations like St. Mary's Church, Kapaleshwar Temple and the Big Mosque.
A city with modern, commercial, and historical significance, Chennai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Blessed with picturesque locales and a history that dates back to times immemorial, Chennai once a tiny fishing village has today become one the most important cities in the world. It is among the four metropolitan cities of India and is one of the most beautiful destinations to head to if you are planning a tour to Tamil Nadu.
On your visit to Chennai, explore its buzzing streets, heritage temples, shopping arcades, and striking beaches. Chennai is also home to thriving technology, which makes it one of the biggest IT parks on the Asian continent. With Puducherry and Mahabalipuram in proximity, Chennai is an important cultural hub of India. So, if you want to enjoy the distinct flavors, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture, plan a visit to this destination in South India.
Whether you are looking for spiritual bliss, a party scene, or thrilling adventure activities, Chennai has everything in store for all kinds of travelers. There are a lot of things to do in Chennai other than unwinding at its pristine beaches and visiting the ancient temples. Chennai invites you to indulge in various activities and have the time of your life. But before you pack your bags and book a flight/train ticket, there are some things you must know about Chennai. We have curated a Chennai Travel Guide to help you plan your tour conveniently.
From beaches to temples, forts to museums, markets to art-hubs, Chennai has plenty of things to keep you entertained. The seafood, the wildlife, and the Dravidian-style architecture are some of the important things that make Chennai a must-visit. Also, the sunsets at Marina Beach are truly mesmerizing! Chennai has the longest sea beach in Asia, which is another great reason to take your loved ones to this South Indian destination.
Chennai is well-connected to all major Indian cities by air. Land at Chennai International Airport, which plies several domestic and international flights regularly. If traveling to Chennai by train, then get off at the Chennai Central Junction. It is well-linked with various local and express trains throughout India. Chennai is also well-connected by road via several national as well as state highways and links Chennai with many prominent cities in India. You can also choose to plan a road trip to Chennai from Kolkata via NH 16, from Bengaluru via NH 48, and from Trivandrum via NH 38. Read more here.
With the availability of AC/NON-AC local buses, traveling around Chennai is quite affordable and convenient. Cabs services like Ola Cabs, Meru Cabs, Uber, and local taxis can also be hired. Auto-rickshaws, car rentals, and Chennai Metro are some other options to move around the city.
Chennai, being a popular tourist attraction, lures tourists all around the year. However, the best time to visit Chennai is during the winters i.e. November to February as the weather is pleasant and is perfect to indulge in various activities and sightseeing tours. You might experience sudden rainfall even during winters. There are a lot of festivals in Chennai that are celebrated during winters, so be a part of as many as you can. Summers are extremely hot and humid in Chennai with temperatures reaching as high as 45 °C. However, with rain showers, the temperature goes down eventually allowing you to enjoy the weather. Monsoon brings heavy rainfall and strong winds, therefore, it is advised to carry an umbrella and raincoat to avoid getting soaked. To know more click here.
From old to contemporary, and from nature to architecture, Chennai has a lot of beautiful and striking places to see. Marina Beach is a popular beach that is perfect to get some fresh air and enjoy the soothing winds. Then there are exquisitely carved temples of Kapaleeshwar and Sri Parthasarathy. Their magnificence and eye-catching architecture are something you cannot miss on your Chennai travel. Fort of British Rule, Royapuram fishing harbor, Guindy National Park, Government Museum, and Edward Elliot’s Beach are some other attractions in Chennai. Know more here.
5 days are enough to visit Chennai.
The average cost of traveling to Chennai will be I NR 17,000 to INR 24,000 per person.
*Prices are subject to change.
Chennai has a lot of accommodations options to choose from. From luxury hotels to budget stays, honeymoon special to kid-friendly ones, you can select whichever type of hotel you prefer. Some major hotels in Chennai are ITC Grand Chola, Green Park Chennai, The Accord Metropolitan, WelcomHotel Chennai, and Hilton Chennai.
Chennai is no doubt a foodies hub and offers a wide range of delicacies. Eden, Seena Bhai 1977 Dosa Centre, Dindigul Thalappakatti, Southern Spice, and Nair Mess are some of the famous restaurants in Chennai. Here, you can indulge in culinary delights like lasagna, podi idli, uthappam, biryani, kori ghee roast, and Vanjaram fish fry.
Chennai’s shopping culture is known to everyone. It is quite a heartwarming experience as you not only get good quality products but there are quite a number of shopping markets that sell stuff at good rates. T.Nagar (saris, gold jewelry), Pondy Bazaar (clothes, footwear), Sowcarpet (suits and lehengas), Ritchie Street (electronics), Georgetown (saris), and Isha Life (handmade and organic products) are some of the most popular shopping markets in Chennai .
Best time to visit, how to reach, weather in chennai, historical monuments.
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Ans: Chennai is a Metropolitan city located in South of India on eastern coastal belt. It is capital of Tamil Nadu state of India.
Ans: Chennai is a very easily accessible by Air, Road and Railway.
By Air: Chennai has international airport, known as Chennai International Airport (MAA), which connects to many other countries plus offers very good connections from other Indian city airports. very good connections from other Indian city airports.
By Rail: Chennai houses the Southern railway headquarter thus provide massive connectivity to other Indian cities. In Chennai there are 03 railway stations, the most central is Chennai Egmore& Chennai Central Station. Tambram station is in suburban area of Chennai. Many express trains include Shatabadi Express- super fast day trains operates to & fro Chennai.
By Road: Chennai offers well connected toad network, to other cities of India. The ones you can cover by road on a major touristic routes are Tirupati, Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Pondicherry, Velore etc.
Ans: Best places to visit in Chennai are Marina Beach, Government Museum, DakshinChitra Museum – a living history museum, Sri Parthasarathy Temple, Kapeeleshwar Temple, Royapuram fishing harbour, Santhome cathedral Basilica, Fort St. George, etc.
Ans: Chennai being a coastal city,Chennai remains hot and humid almost throughout the year. The ideal time to visit the city is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
Ans: Like other metropolitan cities, you can do club hoping, as city offers you good number of clubs and bars. If you are looking to explore something away from bar crowds, you can visit marina Beach or Besant Nagar beach and enjoy a night stroll before retiring for the day.
Ans: Yes, from Chennai you can enjoy same day trip while stationed in Chennai to Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Vellore, Pondicherry, Tiruvannamalai etc.
Ans: Yes there are beaches in Chennai, Marina Beach – fit for strolls and street food, Elliot Beach – fit for sea bathing, Covelong Beach – now converted into a resort by Taj – namely Fisherman’s Cove Resort.
Ans: You should look for hotels in and around George Town in case you want to stay near to sightseeing places of Chennai. If you want to go for shopping, cinema, gaming arcades, night clubs etc, Thousand Lights is the area for you. If you are in a city only for a connection to flight, there are many good hotels for you near the airports.
Ans: If you are in Chennai on a weekday, you can choose to visit Kalakshetra – school of fine Arts. Situated on a 100 acres campus in southern Chennai in a distinctively simple style of architecture, is Kalakshetra Foundation, an important physical and artistic landmark of India. You can take a guide and non-guided tours of the campus at extra cost. You can enjoy a Bharatanatyamclassical dance experience, if you want to know more you can write to us.
Some of the most beautiful structures on Earth can be found in Chennai. In fact, this city is known for its temples with detailed accents throughout their designs. As a traveler, be sure to stop by the Ashtalakshmi Temple. The brilliant colors and deity-specific architecture make this landmark hard to miss along the Bay of Bengal.
Another must-see landmark is the Marundeeswarar Temple. Architecture fans will gravitate to its textbook designs while seasoned travelers might marvel at the overall beauty that the structure brings to the landscape.
Chennai is also home to several natural wonders. The beaches are perfect places to stop and enjoy the scenery. Both Breezy and Marina beaches are popular among visitors and locals alike. Get to the beach early in order to find a great spot for sunbathing, swimming or just reading a good book.
Branch out from the beach to find other natural destinations, including Kolli Hills and the Arignar Anna Zoological Park. Kolli Hills is a more remote area, whereas the park offers something for every nature lover.
Enjoy a visit to Chennai as you plan out your itinerary in India. Culture, adventure and enrichment are just a few of the aspects you might find inspiring.
More places to visit in tamil nadu.
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Published: August 30, 2024
by Elita Berube
Chennai, a bustling city known for its rich culture and history, also has a spine-chilling side. If you love ghost stories and eerie places, you'll want to know about Chennai's most haunted spots . From abandoned houses to spooky cemeteries, these locations have tales that will send shivers down your spine. Imagine walking through a deserted street at night, hearing whispers or seeing shadows move. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just curious, these haunted spots offer a unique experience. Ready to get spooked? Let's dive into the mysterious and haunted side of Chennai.
Chennai, a bustling city with rich history and culture, has its share of spooky tales. If you enjoy a good scare, these haunted spots might just give you the chills. Let's explore some of the most eerie places in Chennai.
This deserted neighborhood is infamous for its eerie atmosphere and ghostly sightings. Once a thriving area, it now stands as a ghost town.
Madras Christian College, one of the oldest educational institutions in India , has its own share of ghost stories. The most famous one revolves around a banyan tree on campus.
Blue Cross Road, located in the heart of Chennai, is another spot known for paranormal activities. This road is notorious for its spooky vibes and unexplained occurrences.
Besant Avenue Road, a seemingly normal street during the day, transforms into a spine-chilling place after sunset. Locals often avoid this road at night due to its haunted reputation.
The Broken Bridge, located near the Adyar River, is a popular spot for ghost hunters. This incomplete structure has a dark history and is believed to be cursed.
St. Thomas Mount, a historic hill in Chennai, is home to a haunted house that has been the subject of many ghost stories.
Valmiki Nagar, a residential area in Chennai, has its own haunted spot that sends shivers down the spine of anyone who dares to visit.
Anna Flyover, a busy overpass in Chennai, has a dark side that many are unaware of. This flyover is said to be haunted by restless spirits.
Thiruvanmiyur Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists, has a haunted stretch that is best avoided after dark.
Fort St. George, a historic fort in Chennai, has its own share of ghost stories. This ancient structure is believed to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers.
Chennai's haunted spots offer a unique blend of history and mystery. From the eerie tales of De Monte Colony to the chilling vibes of Blue Cross Road , each location has its own spine-tingling story. Exploring these places can be both thrilling and educational, giving you a deeper understanding of the city's past. Whether you're a believer in the supernatural or just curious, visiting these haunted sites can be an unforgettable experience. Remember to respect the local customs and the people who live near these areas. Always stay safe and maybe bring a friend along for the adventure. Chennai's haunted spots are waiting for you to uncover their secrets. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a spooky journey through the city's most mysterious locations.
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Asia. If you have time to explore Chennai (formerly Madras), this 284-sq-mi (400-sq-km) conglomerate of urban villages and diverse neighborhoods making up Tamil Nadu's capital will pleasantly surprise you. Its role is as keeper of South Indian artistic, religious and culinary traditions.
Top Chennai Tourist Places. Marina Beach: As the longest beach in India, Marina Beach is one of the best places in Chennai. Stretching over 13 km, this beach is perfect for a morning walk, enjoying the sunrise, or simply relaxing by the sea. The beach is lined with food stalls, making it a great place to taste local snacks. Kapaleeshwarar Temple:
5. Marundeeswarar Temple. Top Attraction 4.3 /5. 8 km. from city center 5 out of 90. Places To Visit in Chennai. The magnificent Marundeeswarar Temple, in Tiruvanmiyur, near Chennai has the temple deity Shiva in the form of Marundeeswar or Aushadeeswarar, the God of Medicines.
4. Marina Beach. 3,998. Beaches. This expansive beach is Chennai's most famous tourist attraction, though the undercurrent is too strong for all but the strongest swimmers. Look out for the "Kannagi" statue on Marina Beach, which…. See ways to experience (21) 5.
Boating and Kayaking at Muttukadu Boat House (prices start from INR 130 per head to INR 1000 per boat. ECR Speedway - Go-Karting and Car Racing Track. Kart Attack - Go-Kart Track. Dugout - Largest Indoor Adventure Sports Arena In Chennai at Grand Square Mall, Velachery & The Marina Mall, OMR.
Chennai Travel Guide . Vibrant, vivacious and vivid - Chennai's amazing amalgamation of the classical Tamil aestheticism with a new layer of cosmopolitan culture is definitely a treat for every traveller who decides to explore this coastal metropolitan city. Spanning a wide range of diverse attractions, the ample places to visit in Chennai will ...
Read all reviews ⤍. Chennai is India's fourth largest city. It's located in the northeastern corner of Tamil Naduon the Bay of Bengal, with a population nudging ten million. Hot, congested and noisy, it's the major transport hub of the south and a tourist destination in its own right. The attractions of the city are diverse.
Chennai is famous for its sandy beaches, parks, and historic buildings. The Marina Beach here is one of the longest urban beaches in the world. The city is also home to Fort St. George, built by the British East India Company in 1644, now a museum showcasing the city's roots as a British military garrison and East India Company trading outpost.
Although the market operates around the clock, the best time to visit the wholesale vegetable section is from 3 a.m. to 5 a.m., when most of the produce sales take place. The wholesale flower section is most vibrant after noon, when the fresh supply of flowers has arrived. 13 of 22.
The southern Indian city of Chennai is an amazing destination for any traveller. From budget conscious backpackers to luxury hotels Chennai has it all. Read our complete travel guide to the city, featuring all the best food and restaurants to eat at, accommodation choices as well as travel advice fo
2024. 4. Marina Beach. 3,998. Beaches. This expansive beach is Chennai's most famous tourist attraction, though the undercurrent is too strong for all but the strongest swimmers. Look out for the "Kannagi" statue on Marina Beach, which…. See ways to experience (21) 5.
Tamil Nadu Tourism. Chennai Tourism. Chennai, a vibrant metropolis and the capital of Tamil Nadu, is home to a variety of historical landmarks, temples, and beaches. This city is a delightful mix of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches ...
Chennai, Madras, Tamil Nadu - travel guide with tourist places to visit, things to do & sightseeing attractions with itinerary, weather, map & trip duration. Chennai is one the largest cities in India & famous for its beaches, Museums, Parks and several historical places around the city.
Tourism guide publisher Lonely Planet has named Chennai as one of the top ten cities in the world to visit in 2015. Chennai is ranked as a beta-level city in the Global Cities Index and was ranked the best city in India by India Today in the 2014 annual Indian city survey. Chennai has also been named in the 'hottest' cities to live in for 2015 ...
Planning Your Trip. Best Time to Visit: Chennai has a hot and humid climate. Summer temperatures in late May and early June often reach an extreme 38-42 degrees Celsius (100-107 degrees Fahrenheit). The city receives most of its rainfall during the northeast monsoon, from mid-September to mid-December.
Chennai Travel Packages. Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free. 8 Days / 7 Nights. Stunning Tamil Nadu Tour in 1 Week. $338 per adult on twin sharing. Get Offers >. 7 Days / 6 Nights. Tamil Nadu Temple Tour Package. $306 per adult on twin sharing.
For travel purposes, this article covers the Chennai Metropolitan Area, a region of 5,904 km 2 (2,280 sq mi).It consists of several municipalities, the largest of which, the Corporation of Chennai, is spread along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal.The Corporation of Chennai can divided roughly along Coovum and Adyar rivers into North, Central and South.
Chennai Tourism - Get Chennai travel & tourism related information including tourist places, transport, nightlife, weather, photos, entertainment, shopping, festivals, maps, and attractions of ...
Puratchi Thalaivar Dr.M.G.Ramachandran Central (2.7 kms) Chennai, erstwhile called Madras, is one of the most noteworthy tourist places of Southern India. More than being called a tourist place, Chennai is a city that in spite of becoming one among the trendiest cities of the country, still follows its own unique traditions and cultures and has ...
Chennai travel guide. Chennai Tourism | Chennai Guide. You're Going to Love Chennai. Chennai is a vibrant blend of coastal and urban scenery. The city formerly known as Madras was settled by the British just 400 years ago, but today it has spread to incorporate villages that are 1,000 years old.
Chennai Travel Guide A city with modern, commercial, and historical significance, Chennai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Blessed with picturesque locales and a history that dates back to times immemorial, Chennai once a tiny fishing village has today become one the most important cities in the world.
Dive into the heart of South Indian cuisine, where flavours burst forth in every bite. From stunning sites to sumptuous Chettinad dishes, this Chennai travel guide covers everything you need to know about the city. How to reach Chennai. By air:Chennai International Airport (MAA) connects the city to major domestic and international destinations ...
Complete travel guide to Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Discover top tourist attractions in Chennai, best time to visit, things to do and how to reach Chennai. Destinations. Delhi. Himachal Pradesh. Jammu & Kashmir. Kerala. Rajasthan. Uttarakhand. West Bengal. All Destinations. Travel Stories. Search.
Chennai, a bustling city known for its rich culture and history, also has a spine-chilling side. If you love ghost stories and eerie places, you'll want to know about Chennai's most haunted spots. From abandoned houses to spooky cemeteries, these locations have tales that will send shivers down your spine.