Places to visit in Chennai
Chennai formerly Madras, is the charming capital city of Tamil Nadu, the Southern Indian state. Set on the Coromandel Coast, along the Bay of Bengal, Chennai has much to offer. From scenic beaches, historical attractions, vibrant culture, delightful food, shopping and other delights, the Gateway of South is among the must-visit places in India. The fourth-largest metropolis of the country, the city port is ranked among the busiest in India. The best thing about Chennai tours is that it brings together, the old and the new creating a unique mix which is heart-warming.
The British colonial chapter has traces all over the city, but beyond that the roots of the history of city go deep. The Tamil Sangam era, 2000 years back was a glorious period. From those days the fine masterpieces include the Kapeleeshwar temple. The marvel of architecture is one of the iconic landmarks of the city. Matching pace with the modern day, Chennai is also dotted with eclectic mix of classical concerts to trendy nightclubs, Chettinad to multi-cuisine restaurants, museums to Internet cafes, and so much more. Shopping for genuine silk sarees, and many handicrafts are also some of the best things to do in Chennai.
For a beach holiday, a visit of the ancient temples, tracing the roots of history, a visit to other places in South India, tours to Chennai provide a host of options. The city has a charm that is simply matchless. Places to visit in Chennai include the Marina Beach, the 13 km stretch of blissful sun, sea and sand. Listed among the most popular beaches of India this shoreline is a pictorial setting where you can enjoy some spectacular sunsets and sunrises. Also included among the must-visit sights in Chennai is the San Thome Cathederal, built on the site of a 16th century Portuguese basilica. It is said to be the tomb of the apostle Thomas, who is reputed to have brought Christianity to India in the 1st century AD. Also interesting is The Fort St George and the Fort Museum which has a collection of objects from the tenure of the East India Company in Chennai, including letters from Robert Clive. Other tourist attractions include the Chennai Crocodile Bank, Pulicat Lake (a large saltwater lagoon), a bird sanctuary, and a zoological park.
In addition, from Chennai there are a number of interesting places to get away. Mahabalipuram (57km-1.5 hours), Pondicherry (154 km approx.- 3 hours). are amazing getaways which you can include with Chennai tours.
Fort St. George
Fort St. George: Fort St. George was constructed in 1640 A.D. by the British East India Company, under the direction of Francis Day and Andrew Cogon. Fort St. George occupies a place of pride and status in Chennai. The Fort was named after the patron saint of England, St. George. The Fort has a Museum and a St. Mary’s church.
Marina Beach
Marina Beach is the second largest beach in the world and is one of the main tourist attractions of the city. The experience of viewing the sun rise and set is very enchanting. Close to Marina beach, is the Aquarium, and also there are several attractive historical buildings including the University of Madras, Senate-House, Chepauk Palace etc
The Fort Museum
The Fort Museum, dating back to the British period, was a vault of the rare display to a number of weapons, uniforms, coins, costumes, medals and other artifacts. The tallest flag staff in India is the flag staff at the St. George Fort. In the South of the Fort, a war memorial was constructed in 1939, in the memory of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the First World War. The biggest lung space in the city is situated on an island formed by the river Cooum. This space is the venue for the Trade and the tourist fairs help periodically which are seasonal attractions
Santhome Cathedral Basilica
Santhome Cathedral Basilica at the southern end of the Marina Beach derives its name from St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, who is believed to have come to Madras sometime during 52 A.D. He was killed on the St. Thomas mount just outside the city in 78 A.D. and was interned in the SanThome beach, where a church was built. After many years, a different church was constructed and his mortal remains were transferred to the new church from he old one. This church was rebuilt in 1606 as a cathedral and in 1896 it was made a basilica. The beautiful tainted glass window at the basilica reveals the story of St. Thomas. The central hall has 14 wooden memorials portraying the scenes from the last days of Christ. The Cathedral has a 3 ft. high statue of Virgin Mary, which is believed to have been brought from Portugal in 1543
