Chennai is the fourth largest metropolitan city of India and is the commercial and cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. In the field of automobiles, hardware and software, health, education and innovation, Chennai holds a good ranking and is also famous for Kollywood – the South Indian film industry. Chennai is spread over an area of 426 sq. km and has a population of 70.9 lakh.
Things to do in Chennai
Chennai has a great history, tradition and culture, and offers many outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, several amusement parks which can be explored on a visit to the city. The local art and culture, and local food along with heart rendering shopping make Chennai a must-visit place for all.
Tourist attractions in Chennai
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is famous for its cutworks in temples, coconut fringes and silk sarees. The famous tourist places of Chennai are Marina Beach, Government Museum, Fort St. George, Guindy National Park, Santhome Cathedral Basilica, VGP Golden Beach Resort, ValluvarKottam, Arignar Anna Zoological Park and many more.
Places to shop in Chennai
Shopping in Chennai is the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary, from the hand-woven silk sarees to the handlooms and handicrafts of the locals, some items are so attractive that there is no way you should leave them, the best stores for shopping are the Rangachari Cloth store – a seven-decade-old store, Nalli, Amethyst, Naturally Auroville, Spencer Plaza, Cotton street, Rehane, etc.
Best time to visit Chennai
Winters are the best months to visit from November to March. During winters and festive times, the city is adorned with spectacular hues and the weather is also pleasant at this time.
Modes of transport
Buses, local trains, metros, pre-paid and post-paid taxis along with cheap options of transport like rickshaws, autos, tempos and shared cabs are the modes of transport to commute within the city.
Weather in Chennai
Summers from April to June are hot and sweltering and the temperature goes up till 38°C. June and July are the rainy months and monsoon are fully blown. Winters, from September to March, are the best months to visit when the temperature on an average is till 19°C.
Airport in Chennai
Chennai International Airport (IATA: MAA), located 21 km away from the city is the fourth busiest airport in passenger traffic.