Chennai

One of the most popular tourist destinations in South India, Chennai continues to be a bustling metropolis, filled with energy, colours and historic legacies. This capital city of Tamil Nadu is known for crafts, culture, architecture, drama, cuisines and Carnatic music.

Chennai is famous being an industrial based city, a naval base, its dance (Bharatnatyam) and music and the film industry - Kollywood. The rivers like Adyar and Cooum (Kovam)are supposed to be the lifelines of the city.

The people of Chennai celebrate popular Indian festivals like Christmas, Diwali and Eid along with their traditional Buddhist festivals like Pongal, Tamil New Year. Rice based dishes like pongal, dosai, idli and vadai are very popular. Filter Coffee is very much in demand to re-freshening up one’s spirit.

Following are the main tourist attractions of Chennai:

Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Goddess Karpagambal, a reincarnation of Parvati is worshipped in this temple which reveals the beauty of Dravidian architecture of 7th century BC. Lord Shiva himself is worshipped in the form of Kapaleeshwarar, signified through the lingam. This temple is known for its vast six halls, rituals and yearly festivals.

Arignar Anna Zoological Park
It is also called as Vandalur Zoo. It is the first zoo of India, created in 1855. Though, it had to be later shifted to the outskirts of the city and was made open to public in 1985.  With more than 275 staff members, this zoo has set exemplary record in Conservation Breeding Programme for endangered species.

Marina Beach
Popularly known as the longest beach in India, it is famous for water attractions, casual strolls, cricket matches and fish markets. Roast corn, blended with lime is one of the famous delicacies sold here.

Fort St. George
Colloquially called as ‘White Town’ this majestic fort was built in 1644. It is known for being the first British architectural establishment in India. It is included in the list of military architectural marvels in India.

Dakshina Chitra
This prominent museum in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to South Indian heritage and culture. It has a rich blend of craft activities, village artisans, folk dances and exhibitions.

San Thome Church
This Roman Catholic Church is located in the centre of Chennai.Portuguese explorers had built it in the 16th century. It is known for its neo-gothic style of architecture.

Sri Parthasarathy Temple
Acknowledged as one of the oldest temples in India, it is dedicated for the worship of Lord Krishna. The name Parthasarathy in Tamil means ‘charioteer of Arjuna’ from Mahabharata.

So, experience the temples, churches, sun-kissed beach, zoological park and rustic South Indian ambiance with Chennai Travel. Gear on for being enthralled.