About City
Popularly known as Madras, Chennai is a city rich in cultural history, dance, music, churches and temples. Chennai is the fourth largest city in India and has a sweet balance of conservative and contemporary lifestyle. It is here you can see the skylines and the scenic coastal beauty creating a perfect equilibrium. The city is the hub for healthcare, manufacturing, IT and more. The summer temperature in Chennai reaches 38 to 42 degree Celsius during May and June. The city receives rainfall between mid September to mid December from the Northeast Monsoon. From November to February the temperature is at an average of 24 degrees Celsius. Humidity is high in Chennai so pack breathable clothes.
Tourist Spots
Home to some of the stunning beaches, including the second longest beach in the world, the Marina Beach, the place has sunlight and water to bask in glory. Sightseeing places include Fort St, George, historical museums, National Art Gallery, Connemara Public Library and more. You can find street shopping and mall shopping at its best in Chennai. The Chennai dance and music Season between mid-November and January is a treat for music and dance lovers. The tourist attractions near Chennai include Mahabalipuram and Kancheepuram. This is referred to as the Golden Triangle of Tamil Nadu. There are amusement parks on the ECR to give you a rush of thrill.
Things to buy
The clothes market is world famous and comes with dedicated clothing stores with varied price choice. The best bargains are found in T.Nagar where you can buy both cottons and silk at a great price. Auroville in Nungambakkam stocks organic food grains while SIPA’s Craftlink is a fair trade craft shop located in Kodambakkam High Road. Victoria Technical Institute and Poompuhar located in Mount road are ideal for buying authentic handicrafts from Tamil Nadu. Burma Bazzar is the hub for grey market stuff. NCS Bose road is the commercial center located in George Town.
Local Events
Dance, music, drama and film festivals are always on the cards for tourists. Chennai is the cultural hub of India and many cultural events and festival happen round the year. In the month of January Thyagaraja festival is organized where artistes showcase their talent. The month of February is the season for Natyanjali Dance Festival in Chidambaram a few kilometers from Chennai. The Arubathimoovar Festival in Kabaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore is a vibrant religious procession. The Kanthuri Festival is dedicated to St Qadir Wali. The Velankanni festival marks the arrival of 16th century sailors from Portugal who saved Virgin Mary from a shipwreck. Chennai International Film Festival is held every year where movies from other countries are showcased.