Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is made up of diverse neighborhoods and urban villages. It is the hub of South India’s best culinary, artistic and religious traditions. The highly enthusiastic people in Chennai are one of the best things about the city apart from the numerous sightseeing places. So, book your Kolkata to Chennai flighttoday because this quick guide has everything else planned for you.
What Are the Top Sights That You Should Not Miss?
- Marina Beach – This place is usually crowded during most parts of the day, but an early morning stroll is going to be a pleasant experience on this 3 km long stretch. If you want to get a panoramic view of the city, then you can get on top of the Madras Lighthouse located at the southern end of the beach.
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple – Located in Southern Chennai, specifically in Mylapore, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is that one place without which a trip to Chennai would be incomplete. This temple is quite old and is believed to have been built somewhere around 1566when the Portuguese destroyed the seaside original. Featuring a rainbow-colouredgopuram, the architectural elements of this temple will leave you awe-struck.
- Santhome Cathedral –The Portuguese built this Roman Catholic Cathedral in 1523 and further, British rebuilt it in a neo-Gothic style in the late 1900s. This place is said to be the final resting place of St Thomas the Apostle. Behind the cathedral, you will find the tomb of St Thomas. On the southern side of the cathedral, there is the St Thomas’ Pole and this structure is said to have protected the cathedral during the tsunami of 2004.
- Fort St George – Having undergone several facelifts, this Fort was originally built in 1653 by the British East India Company. If you have an interest in the artwork of colonial times, then you should definitely check out the Fort Museum. You will also find the St Mary’s Church inside the Fort premises, and this is the oldest surviving church in India from the British era. It was built in 1680.
Some Remarkable Day-Trips from Pondicherry
If you have some time at hand, then you should consider making these day trips from Chennai –
- Mahabalipuram – Located at a distance of 50km south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, was a major port city of the Pallava kingdom. The coastal beauty, coupled with the archaeological wonders of this place is amazing. The Shore Temple is one of the magnificent, rock-cut architectural wonders of the place. The heights of the Pallava architecture are prominent from the grandeur of this temple. You should also visit the Five Rathas which are situated towards the southern end of Mahabalipuram.
- Kanchipuram – Situated at 80km southwest of Chennai, Kanchipuram is known for its several vibrant temples. The ones that you must definitely visit are the Kailasanatha Temple, Ekambareshwara Temple and Kamakshi Amman Temple.
Chennai is a dynamic place and rich in tradition and culture. If you want to avail the lowest prices, book your Kolkata to Chennai flight at once.
