Spread across an area of 426 sq. km, Chennai, the capital of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, was earlier called Madras. It is the industrial, economic, commercial, and educational hub of Southern India.
It has earned the nickname of being the ‘Detroit of India’ due to the city alone contributing to 1/3rd of the total automobile industry of India.
Things to do in Chennai
Known for its long sandy beaches, art and cultural centres, lush green parks, historical sites and landmarks, Chennai is a tourist hot spot for Indians and foreign visitors alike. You could take a trek at Koli hills, join a tour of the MGR Film city or watch the sunset at Marina beach.
Tourist attractions in Chennai
There is no shortage of tourist attractions in this culturally rich southern Indian city. From the UNESCO World Heritage site, Pallava kingdom, the charming Marina and Elliot beaches, historical sites like The Government Museum, Chennai Rail Museum and Birla Planetarium, monuments like The Vivekananda house and Valluvar Kottam or wildlife spots like the Guindy National Park, there is something for everyone.
Places to shop in Chennai
T Nagar, Pondy Bazaar, Sowcarpet, Ritchie Street, George Town markets, Panagal Park and Anna Nagar are some of the famous shopping spots of the city.
Best time to visit Chennai
Since summers in the southern cities of the country are usually scorching, pre-monsoon or winter season from October to February is the best time to explore the city.
Modes of transport
Chennai is well connected to all parts of India via roads, rail (Chennai Central or Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station) and air (Chennai International Airport ). One can commute in the city via cabs or local buses.
Weather in Chennai
The average annual temperature of Chennai fluctuates between 21.6°C and 36.6°C throughout the year.
Airport in Chennai
Chennai International Airport (IATA: MAA) is Chennai’s primary airport. It is the regional HQ for the Airports Authority of India for South India and operates most major international and domestic airlines like IndiGo regularly.