I always wished to visit Chennai, and fortunately had to go to a family function. I must say it is a social, commercial and a busy academic center. There are several nearby destinations, attracting men and women of all age groups. There are well known organizations inviting workforce into this metropolis. This city has world class private hospitals such as Fortis and Apollo and the politics wave making Chennai News headline.
Quick Facts
I must say this; Chennai weather all through the year is not pleasurable. Still, located on the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal, there are several travel attractions that may be found easily on Chennai online.
Ideal time to visit
The right time to visit is during November to March. This is the time that the heat is felt less. The beaches make the environment cooler at night, yet you will never need warm clothes.
Pongal festival
Culture
I can very confidently say Tamil is the main spoken language. But, people knowing English can move in the city with ease. Chennai tradition and culture attracts cultural freaks. Visiting this south India gateway, you must not miss to explore the travel attractions. Chennai has retained its Tamil Hindu culture, despite the British influence and provides unique blend of Indian culture and foreign influence. This is apparent in its major worship places that include temples, mosques, churches and Darghas.
Events and Festivals
Pongal is celebrated for 4 days and includes huge processions, decorating yards, cattle fight and colorful rangolis. Kapaleeshwar temple Arupathumoovar festival in Mylapore is beautiful. This is the reason that in January tourism department promotes tourism and heritage.
Places to eat
The rice based cuisine such as idly, vadai, dosai, white rice, lemon rice, tamarind rice, pongal, etc, are available in small and big hotels. The rates of each dish vary as per the place. For instance, a medium sized hotel 1 idly price ranges from Rs.5, while the same in a high-end hotel is double the price. The lip smacking filter coffee is highly popular. If you love non-vegetarian dishes, visit Chettinadu hotels and Talapakattu for Biriyani.
Invigorating Places to visit
Chennai tourist places include Chepauk stadium, the oldest cricket stadiums, the Guindy race track also invigorates race enthusiasts. Chennai seashores, the Marina Beach, Golden and Elliot beaches are worth visiting. The historic buildings include Valluvar Kottam and Fort St. George. Vandalur zoo houses several endangered species of animals in their natural surroundings. Chennai is a kaleidoscope of moods, presenting troves of treasure from temples to palaces and history.
Mahabalipuram is known for its shore temple sunrise. Its glory lives in its unfinished and finished monuments and temples. The rock surface indicates wrought changes, yet conveys a message of harmony. Kanchipuram and Tirupati are nearby places.
How to Reach
Reach from anywhere as there are frequent buses, flights and trains. There are share autos available from the central station to major places at a fare of Rs.10.
Shopping
I enjoyed shopping the silk saris. Teenage dresses are very expensive. Rangachari is a shop in Alwarpet area, do visit and buy cotton saris. There are Nallis, Kumaran and Chennai silks for all other collections. For small and inexpensive shopping, visit Ranganathan Street, Mambalam.
Tips
- Beware of frauds.
- Avoid taking autos and in case you take, bargain the rates before boarding.
- Travel light and for safety carry sunscreen lotions.
