Chennai Tourism Places
It was an unplanned trip to Chennai. I was in South India - the last leg of my trip to India - but then my tour guide- Sam suggested that we take a detour and spend some time in Chennai. I'm glad I agreed. The city will welcome the jammed traffic, heat, smog and lots of people around, but there's something humble about the city that will really make you love instantly.
Sam (Sambuddha) filled me with a bit of local history. The city was a center of power for many kingdoms of South India through centuries. Then there were the British and French colonial forces. Today it is counted as one of the four cities Metros of India. It is an urban area with a maze of roads and well connected transport. The culture is significantly different than any other city in India and is refreshing break.
It is a city of wooden carved Hindu temples and structures, palaces. The Marina Beach boasts of being the longest stretch of beach in the country and is handsome. Also Covelong beach and Elliot beach. The city is not only about the temples; There are some beautiful churches than good. San Thome Cathedral, Velankanni Church, Church of Santa Maria are a must. If you can, spend a night in a Bharatnatyam dance recital. It is a form of classical dance and very popular in this part of the country. From Chennai you could go sightseeing in nearby places like Mahabalipuram, Dakshinachitra, Fort St. George Government Museum. Go on a short walking tour in the bazaar of the city - is a great experience. Witness how the artisans created these wonderful 12-yard gorgeous silk saris.
The food is simple but surprisingly delicious. From crispy rice pancakes called dosa for soft and fluffy rice cakes - idlis with sambar and hot side chutney- which is a treat for the palate. A taste you will definitely find the food is coconut. From sweet coconut fried banana chips in coconut oil, Chettinad Pepper Chicken cooked in coconut milk! The coffee filter has a special edge to it. The people around you are nice and friendly. It is a pretty sight when you see women wearing dark colored saris that look great downright comfortable and easy to handle. Her long hair are adorned with beautiful white flowers. Do not even think about trying to learn a phrase or two from Tamil just for laughs or to communicate with the locals easier; that will not happen. The good - most of them understand English.
Chennai Santhome Cathedral Church
Santhome Cathedral Chennai
From the Senate to the War Memorial Temple Kapaleeshwarar theme parks, bars, pubs, cafes, cinemas, first, humble little restaurants and temples and crowded buses, second hand van. You get the best of both worlds and that's what makes this place so special. My trip to Chennai only lasted four days, but I can say I really enjoyed it.
