About Chennai
Steeped in ancient traditions, Chennai showcases magnificent temples like Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Parthasarathy Temple, embellished with elaborate carvings. The city also has a thriving art and culture scene, encompassing museums, galleries, and theatres. Along the iconic Marina Beach, where the Bay of Bengal stretches, you find a scenic haven for relaxation and recreation. Chennai's culinary scene is a journey in itself. Indulge in local delicacies such as idli, dosa, and biryani, alongside savouring continental, Thai, and Chettinad cuisine.
Places To Visit:
- Valluvar Kottam: Valluvar Kottam, shaped like a grand chariot, pays tribute to the revered Tamil poet Valluvar. With a vast auditorium, one of India's largest, it serves as a cultural hub for the city. Thirukkural, Valluvar's renowned work, is proudly displayed in 133 etched chapters. Standing tall at 39 metres, this cultural gem is a must-see in Chennai.
- Government Museum:Dating back to 1851, this museum ranks as India's second oldest and the world's tenth oldest. It features an incredible range, from archaeological wonders to numismatic gems. Here, relics of the Indus Valley Civilization meet the grandeur of the Chola and Mughal eras. With over 100,000 artefacts, your journey through time covers everything from ancient paintings to 500 bronze idols tracing their origins to 1000 BC. It's like stepping into your own "Night at the Museum" adventure, minus the talking exhibits!
- Parthasarathy Temple:Discover the marvels of Parthasarathy Temple, near the famous Marina Beach. This ancient temple showcases an exquisitely crafted pyramid-like dome called Rajagopuram. Inside, you'll encounter five forms of Lord Vishnu. Plan your visit around traditional festivals, where the temple bursts to life with vibrant celebrations.
- St Thomas Cathedral Basilica: A historical treasure, St Thomas Cathedral Basilica takes you on a journey back in time. Built in 72 AD, this neo-gothic wonder honours St Thomas. The fusion of Portuguese and British design influences is evident in the exquisite interior adorned with elaborate chandeliers and intricate stained glass windows. Additionally, the St. Thomas Museum housed within the basilica premises displays a collection of valuable relics.
- Ripon Building:Last but not least, the Ripon Building in Chennai, this distinguished establishment serves as the headquarters for the Chennai Corporation. The building stands tall with three floors, and the first floor alone is truly impressive, covering around 30,139 square feet. Notably, its charm is enhanced by the presence of a captivating Westminster Quarter chiming clock. The Ripon Building's architecture beautifully showcases the Neoclassical style, representing the rich legacy of Chennai.
Chennai Airport
Formerly known as Madras Airport, the bustling Chennai Airport (MAA) is located 15 kilometres southwest of Chennai's city centre. With two terminals – the Kamraj Domestic Terminal for local flights and the Anna International Terminal for global travellers – the airport offers essential amenities like lounges, prayer rooms, conference facilities, ATMs, Wi-Fi, and medical services. Getting to and from the airport is also quite easy, thanks to options like public buses, taxis, and the metro, ensuring convenient access to the heart of the city.