Chennai,
one of the four major metropolitan cities of India, is the capital the South
Eastern state of Tamil Nadu. This fascinating state is famous for its
cutworks in the temples, coconut fringes, and silk saris. The gateway to the
sunny south, the city is a saddle of ancient civilization with a rich legacy
of fine arts, sculptures and architecture. Chennai has retained its
conventional Tamil heritage even today, and has effectively conglomerated it
to create a distinct synthesis of cultures.
Location :
Located on a 17 kms stretch of the Coramandel coast, the city is trisected
by the waterways of Cooum and Adyar and the Buckingham Canal.
Best Time & Climate :
Being situated at the tropical zone, Chennai normally has a very hot and
humid climate. The best time to visit Chennai city is the winter season from
the months of November to February. Winters and summers are both quite alike
with the difference in temperature being minimal as it rains frequently
through the year.
How to reach there ?
» By Air - Chennai has domestic as well as
international airports. The Kamaraj Domestic Airport and the Anna
International Airport are located at Tirusulam, at a distance of 20 km from
the city.
» By Rail - Chennai is connected by rail with all
major towns and cities in India.
» By Road - The excellent road network of Chennai
makes it easily accessible from other important cities of Tamil Nadu and the
neighbouring states. All types of land transport can be hired for a
comfortable journey in Chennai and throughout the Indian state of Tamil
Nadu.
Must Visit :
»
Tirupati - About 180 kms from Chennai, Tirupati is the abode of the
legendary Lord of the Seven Hills. It is one of the most renowned shrines in
the country where an uninterrupted worship of the Lord has been carried out
for over thirteen centuries.
» Kanchipuram - Famous for the wonderful artistry of
Kanchi weavers, the makers of the finest silk fabric in India, Kanchipuram
along with Chennai and Mahabalipuram forms the famous Golden Triangle of the
Coromandel Coast.
» Covelong - Experience the history of Tamil Nadu in
Covelong with historical monuments such as forts, churches, mosques, and a
lovely beach.
» Marina Beach - Stretched over an area of 13 km,
this is the second longest beach in Asia. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of
the sunset here.
» Fort St. George - Built in 1640 AD by the
Britishers, the fort houses St. Mary Church and museum. St. Mary's Church is
the oldest Anglican Church in India built in 1680.
» Fort Museum - This museum contains many relics
regarding the tenure of the East India Company and British India. It has a
collection of coeval paintings as well as the rare exhibits of weapons,
uniforms, coins, costumes, medals and some other artifacts dating back to
the British period.
» Kapaleeswarar Temple - The biggest temple in the
city, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple contains inscriptions dating
back to the 13th century AD, and is a fine specimen of the Dravidian style
of architecture. The 37-metre gopuram is especially prominent for its
intricate carvings that depict stories from Hindu mythology.
» Sri Parthasarathi Temple - The temple built in the
8th century is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It was built under the patronage
of the Pallavas. It houses the idols of the five avataras of Sri Vishnu and
has a small temple shrine dedicated to Vishnu's consort, called as Vedavalli
Ammai in the native language of the region.
» Anna Square - The mortal remains of Dr. C.N.
Annadurai, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu was buried at the Anna
Square, which is at the northern end of Marina Beach. Situated about 30 km
from the city, the Anna zoological park is spread over an area of 510
hectares. Its main attractions are safari parks, a nocturnal animal house,
an Aquarium, Natural Museum and many others.
»
»
