The Best Travel Guide to Chennai (UPDATED 2024) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Overview

Chennai The guide was updated: 2024-08-06

Formerly known as Madras, Chennai has a history involving Indian, Portuguese, and Dutch settlements before becoming a significant British trading port in the 17th century. As time progressed, Chennai has grown significantly. It is now India’s fourth-largest city by population and serves as the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. From historical landmarks and temples to modern amenities and lively markets, this bustling and colourful Indian city is bound to have something on offer for everyone.

Facts

Population:	Metro area: 12 million (2024)
Currency:	Indian rupee (INR)
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police: 100 Traffic Police: 103 Fire Control: 101 Ambulance: 102 Apollo Ambulance: 1066
Newspapers:	The Hindu: /www.thehindu.com The New Indian Express: www.newindianexpress.com The Times of India: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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Section in Chennai

Start your exploration in Chennai at the majestic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a Dravidian architectural gem adorned with sculptures and ancient rituals. Nearby, the Government Museum boasts an impressive collection of South Indian bronzes and artefacts. For a mix of history and tranquillity, visit the Santhome Basilica, situated over the tomb of St Thomas the Apostle. End your journey at the Chennai Rail Museum, a hidden treasure displaying the evolution of Indian railways through charming vintage locomotives and memorabilia.

Fort St George Museum

The Fort St. George Museum is home to military memorabilia from the British colonial period. The museum showcases a variety of artefacts related to the British East India Company, the British Raj, and the military history of that era. The collection includes uniforms, weapons, and other items from the British colonial period and offers insights into Chennai's colonial history.

Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Originally established in 1523, the San Thome Cathedral was rebuilt in Neo-Gothic style in 1896. The church is believed to be built over the shrine that holds the remains of Saint Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. St Thomas is said to have come to India in the 1st century AD and was martyred in Chennai.

Government Museum & National Art Gallery

Government Museum & National Art Gallery

The Government Museum in Chennai houses an extensive archaeological collection that includes artefacts from South Indian dynasties dating from the 6th century to the British colonial period. The museum also features Indian art and sculpture, bronzes, anthropological exhibits, and a children's section. The National Art Gallery, which is one of the oldest art galleries in India, is located within the Government Museum Complex. It is home to a significant collection of Indian art and historical pieces.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of Chennai's oldest, with its origins dating back to the 8th century. The temple is renowned for its intricately detailed gopuram, or entrance tower, which stands about 37 metres high.

Marina Beach

Marina Beach

Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching about 13 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal, boasting a lively atmosphere with numerous vendors selling food, refreshments, and souvenirs. The beach is also home to the Marina Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. Nearby, you can find the Chennai Marina Aquarium, which showcases marine life, though it is more modest compared to large aquariums.

St Thomas Mount

St Thomas Mount

The hill on which St Thomas Mount is perched has about 160 steps leading to the top, where the Church of Our Lady of Expectations is located. The church, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, is situated at the summit and is a notable pilgrimage site. The tradition holds that St Thomas the Apostle was martyred on this hill, although the exact historical details are debated.

Fort Saint George

Fort Saint George

Built by the British East India Company in 1640, Fort Saint George is a historic landmark in Chennai which houses the legislative assembly of Tamil Nadu. The fort is a key site showcasing Chennai's colonial history. The fort complex includes The Fort Museum, which displays artefacts related to Chennai's colonial past and a library, which holds historical documents and books.

AVM Studios

AVM Studios

Chennai is a major centre for the Tamil-language film industry, known as Kollywood. AVM Productions is one of the prominent film studios in Chennai, contributing significantly to Kollywood's success. Visitors to film studios like AVM can tour the film sets and may have the chance to see filming in progress.

The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology

The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology

The Madras Crocodile Bank, located about 40 kilometres south of Chennai, is known for its conservation efforts and educational programs related to crocodiles and various types of reptiles. It houses a large collection of crocodiles, alligators, and other reptiles, and serves as a valuable resource for herpetology research and public education.

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