48 hours in Chennai

One of the most populated and busiest cities of India, Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu lies on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal. It is a hub of commerce, economy, culture and education making it one of the leading cities of the country. This metropolitan city has innumerable accolades like Bharatanatyam, Carnatic Music, San Thome Basilica, Marina Beach, IIT Madras, Anna University and wide range of films from Kollywood.

The Kapaleeswar Temple, Chennai (Photo Courtesy: nithyacaars.com)

The sacred and holy structures of the city include temples and churches representing fine architecture and a secular population. The Kapaleeswar temple is an epitome of typical Dravidian architecture with two gopurams and a sacred tank. It is believed to be constructed in 7th century AD by the Pallavas. Thousands of visitors take back the legendary stories which surround the perimeter of the temple. On the other end of the religious pole is the San Thome Basilica, one of the oldest Roman Catholic cathedrals built on the tomb of St. Thomas. Its tapering white walls reflect a neo-gothic style of architecture, practised by the Portuguese. Chennai’s love for art is also evident from Cholamandal Artists’ Village that brought modern art to south India. It has a museum and gallery showcasing one-of-a-kind works by famous artists.

San Thome Basilica, one of the oldest Roman Catholic cathedrals in Chennai (Photo Courtesy: wikipedia)

Other forms of art that originated in this capital city include Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form of Tamil Nadu and Carnatic Music, which is characteristic of south Indian vocalists. Chennai is to Kollywood as Mumbai is to Bollywood. Tamil films receive widespread appreciation and credit across cultures. Famous south Indian actor, Rajanikanth is no less than a demi-god for the Tamilians in Chennai. 

Marina Beach, Chennai (Photo Courtesy: chennaibest.com)

Marina beach is a world famous tourist attraction even among those who know nothing about Chennai. It represents the buzzing city in its vigour and activity. Many locals are found jogging, relaxing on the beach or grabbing a quick bite at the food stalls. The cuisine of Chennai is another factor of this city that gets one aroused and enthusiastic. Many restaurants like Samco and the Anjappar chain cater to the local taste who enjoy tangy biryani, quail, turkey and mutton infused with a variety of spices.

The Vivekananda House, Chennai (Photo Courtesy: wikipedia)

Education is another point of interest in the city that attracts thousands of people from all over the country. The Vivekananda House is an iconic landmark for Chennai and Swami Vivekananda himself lived here for a brief period. It is now converted into a museum and hold priceless paintings, Vivekananda’s photographs and plaques engraved with his sayings. The city has the headquarters of the Theosophical Society founded by Annie Besant. The 450 year old banyan tree that sheltered her now shelters children playing around it.

People in Chennai are fun and enthusiastic, they treat their guests with respect and voluntarily help them. Tamil is the single most popular language of the city drawing from the firm roots of tradition. Chennai is one of the most visited cities in India over the last few years and is easily accessible from all parts of India. Chennai flights arrive from a number of destinations including Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Kolkata.