Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu was earlier known as Madras is widely renowned as the cultural capital of South India. Ancient temples, pulsating arts, natural wonders and mouth-watering cuisines, transform this ancient city into a vibrant tourist destination. No wonder Chennai attracts scores of visitors from all over the country and even abroad who throng the city to catch a glimpse of beautiful beaches, amusement parks, well-kept zoos, swanky malls, wildlife habitats, bird sanctuaries and fascinating temples.
There is so much to see and do in this beautiful state of South India that you have to make thorough planning or else there is every possibility that you might miss out on something spectacular and rue for the rest of your life.
There are several other top attractions in Chennai as well including Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort Museum, Marina Beach, Madras Lighthouse, Theosophical Society, Parthasarathy Temple, Fort St George, St Mary's Church, Vivekananda House, Valluvar Kottam which are thronged by visitors who jostle with each other to catch a glimpse of their favourite place.
There is no dearth of bustling marketplaces in Chennai where you can buy anything from budget to branded products. The markets in Chennai have their vibe and it’s a pleasant experience to take a break and refresh yourself at roadside stalls or restaurants which are present in the marketplaces. T. Nagar, Pondy Bazaar, Sowcarpet, Ritchie Street, George Town, Panagal Park, and Anna Nagar are some of the popular marketplaces of Chennai.
No visit to Chennai can be complete till you have savoured the lip-smacking cuisines that the city offers. There are many eating-out options in Chennai where you can go and satiate your taste buds. Some of the popular cuisines of Chennai are Idli Sambar, Dosa, Paniyaram, Vada, Boli, Jigarthanda, and Idiyappam which are available in in posh restaurants and on roadside stalls where you eat then remains your choice.
The popularity of Chennai as one of the leading tourist destinations in the country can be understood from the fact that there are numerous flights to Chennai from within India as well as abroad. If you also want to visit this beautiful South Indian city then all you need to do is to hop on to your favourite flight to Chennai and visit your preferred destination.
Places to visit in Chennai
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
One of the ancient shrines of Lord Shiva, the temple is located in the centre of the city and is one of the most popular landmarks in Chennai which is thronged by devotees and visitors all year round. The temple is also popular for Goddess Parvati who is worshipped as Goddess Karpagambal who is believed to be the Goddess of the Wish Fulfilling Tree.
San Thomas Church
The church is one of the most magnificent structures dating back to the colonial era. Constructed on the tomb of Saint Thomas in the 16th century, it is also popular as St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica. Though it was the Portuguese who originally built the church, it was the British who rebuilt it in 1893. The serenity and sanctity of the church cannot be missed as you pay homage to the Virgin Mary whose statue is believed to be brought from Portugal.
Mariana Beach
The longest beach in India and the second largest in the world, Mariana Beach is the most famous tourist destination in Chennai. Needless to say, it is one of the most favoured places for young and old alike. The place is also dotted with food carts which add to the joy of visiting the area. Swimming here however is prohibited because of the sharp water currents.
VGP Marine Kingdom
If you are a fan of aquatic life then, VGP Marine Kingdom is where you should be headed. The largest as well as the coolest walk-in aquarium which has a 70-meter underwater tunnel, the place is home to everything from small to big aquatic animals. These creatures are housed in gigantic tanks and overhead aquariums that present a larger-than-life spectacle.
Pondy Bazaar
Your visit to Chennai is incomplete till you have visited Pondy Bazaar fondly referred to as the ‘Mecca’ of shopping in the city. A prominent commercial centre, the place is also one of the busiest marketplaces in the city. From branded to budget goods you can buy it all in Pondy Bazaar. Be it toys, apparel, shoes, perfumes, jewellery, household appliances, electronics, or music you can buy it all in this bustling marketplace. Quite a few popular brands have opened their stores in Pondy Bazar making it one of the best places to shop in Chennai.
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