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Chennai is also know as Madras, it is the first city
and now capital of Tamil Nadu, the state which is famous as "God's Own
Country". The name change from Madras to Chennai belies the character
of this southern metro. Now noisy and fraught with every feature of a big
city, Chennai still retains a certain traditional charm. Shored along the
Bay of Bengal, "the gateway to the South". Film is a roaring industry here,
backed by some of India’s best directors, actors and technicians. Chennai is the fourth largest
metro city of India which is growing with
very fast rate every year. The main travel highlights are the lovely people
and their lifestyle, temples, music, restaurants, discos, pubs and the
famous snake farm. You can see a interesting blend of traditional and the
western culture.
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HOW
TO REACH
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. Chennai is connected by Jet, IA,
Sahara, AI and other international airlines to the rest of the country and
the world. The Meenambakkam Airport is located 17 km southwest of the city
centre. It has terminals for both domestic and international travel.
By Rail - The city of Chennai is also well connected to all the major cities
in India through a wide network of railways. The Tamil Nadu Express from
Delhi, Ganga Kaveri Express from Varanasi, Shatabdi Express from Bangalore
and the Charminar Express from Hyderabad are some of the trains from the
major cities to Chennai. You also have the Coromandel Express from Chennai
to Calcutta. Railway station: There are two railway stations at Chennai -
Central and Egmore and most of the trains arrive here. The Central Railway
Station links north and west and Egmore Station the south. There are
separate stations for local trains. Chennai Central Railway Station is
located on Periyar EVR High Road. Relatively easy to get transport to and
from the Central station though lack of knowledge of the local language
Tamil could be a hindrance.
By Road - The city of Chennai is also well connected to all the major cities
in Tamil Nadu and other neighboring states through an excellent road
network. The city is well linked by roads to the major destinations in South
India. It is connected by the National Highway Nos 4, 5 and 45. Bus
terminus: The State Express Bus Stand is on the south of George Town (same
as Park Town). Their buses are comfortable and they take minimal time.
WHEN TO GO
Chennai can be travelled round the year, but between October and March is the
best time.
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WHAT TO SEE |
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MGR Film City - Known the world over for its film
industry, MGR Film City is a special delight in Chennai. Situated on the
outskirts of Buckingham Canal, tourists are allowed between 8 am and 8
pm. Tel: 235 2132. Entry is Rs 25 while an extra Rs 50 is charged for
camera use. Enthusiasts can get into their act by making a special
request to be allowed to take up a side role.
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The Theosophical Society - The Theosophical
Society, much as the name suggests, offers discourse and meditation
sessions as well as lectures on positive health and spirituality. J
Krishnamurthi and Maria Montessori have both lectured here, under the
huge banyan tree (spreading over 40,000 sq ft). Classes continue to be
held at this spot. Closed on Sundays.
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Fort St George - Fort St George, the first
structure of Madras city built by the British in 1640. Today it houses
the Secretariat and the Legislative Assembly. The Fort Museum close by
has an interesting collection of colonial memorabilia.
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Sri Parthasarathy Temple - The temple is a
typically Chola structure, dating back to the 8th century. Dedicated to
Lord Krishna, it was renovated by the Cholas and has sculptures of
Vijaynagar kings. The inner sanctum is a must see.
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Santhome Cathedral - Built over the tomb of the
apostle St Thomas, this basilica is an important pilgrimage site. More
interesting for its past history of renovations and rebuilding, it may
not be exceptional in terms of workmanship. There is a museum catering
to people who are interested in history. Open daily, 6 am-6 pm. Museum
closes on weekends.
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Government Museum - Established in 1957, the
museum is a set of six buildings that encompass every phase of a
historic city, from the architecture to ornaments. A comprehensive
collection of Chola bronzes and Ram idols keeps the tourists captivated.
There is a children's museum and the National Art Gallery in the same
area.
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Marina Beach - This reserved beach is Chennai's
most popular tourist attraction. It the best place to chill and relax.
The beach is thronged through out the year by several thousand tourists,
both domestic and international. The serene environment, the beautiful
sea, the glittering sun, the white sand and the lovely people around the
beach makes it ideal hangout spot.
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Kapaleeshwar Temple - It is an ancient Shiv temple
is located in the heart of the city. Its an old saying that Lord Siva
once pinched off one of the heads of Brahma to arrest his pride. A
crestfallen Brahma came to this place, installed a Siva Lingam and did
penance. The Lingam is known as Kapaleeswarar. This temple is known for
a panacea from many troubles.
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National Art Gallery - The gallery is worth
visiting if you are an art lover. It houses 10th century paintings,
religious statues and relics occupy .
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Tenth century paintings, one building while the other
contains mostly modern works. Located in Egmore, the National Art
Gallery is housed in a building built in 1906 in the Indo-Saracenic
style of architecture. The building itself is a work of art and was
originally intended to be the Victoria Memorial and Technical Institute
but was made the National Art Gallery in 1951. On exhibition are 10th
and 13th century bronzes, 16th and 18th century Rajasthani and Mughal
paintings, 17th century Deccani paintings and 11th and 12th century
Indian handicrafts. |
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SHOPPING
Chennai is famous for its Kanjeevaram sarees, intricately woven with silk
and gold. Radha Silk House at Sannadhi Street, Mylapore, is one place to
browse. South Indian handicrafts, street shopping is the best option. You
could pick up some exquisite paintings and woodwork at Victoria Technical
Institute in Anna Salai. Of course, Chennai is well up to date with the
latest shopping fads and has everything metros are expected to have,
shopping malls and big show rooms.
WHERE TO EAT
Chennai has a best options of restaurants and bars. You can choose from the
international chain of restaurants and bar or you can try out the local ones
which serves delicious South Indian food.
Try the great vegetarian thalis which are easy on the pocket. You'll find
the popular South Indian dishes like idlis, dosas, uttapams, avial and more
everywhere.
You can try the restaurants listed below :
Dakshin Restaurant - Best for its South Indian fare.
Amravathi - Serves delicious Andhra cuisine.
Hot Breads - Serves delicious quiches, cakes and pastries.
Senor Pepes - The Italian restaurant, for its delicious coffee.
Buhari in Anna Salai - is a 1950s-style eating house which offers
mixed menus, the speciality being Russian Chicken.
Chungking - The Chinese restaurant.
Verandah Restaurant at Taj Connnemara's - Best known for its a la carte
Italian and is known for its freshly baked breads.
Vasana Bhawan - The place well known for its best vegetarian food. It is
absolutely clean and hygienic.
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