Tourist places in and around Chennai
Kapaleeswarar temple
According to a legend, Lord Siva once pinched off one of the heads of Brahma to arrest his pride. A crestfallen Brahma came to this place, installed a Siva Lingam and did penance. The Lingam is known as Kapaleeswarar. His consort is Karpagavalli. F\Devi Parvati did penance here as a peahen and hence the place is known as Mylapore.Saivite saint Gnanasambandhar sang in praise of Lord Siva in this temple to revive a dead girl.
During the Arupathumoovar festival in March in honour of the 63 Nayanmars, their images are taken out in a spectacular procession.
This ancient temple dedicated to Lord shiva is a typical example of Dravidian architecture. This temple has some beautiful sculptures, among which the bronze idols of 63 saivaite saints (Nayanmars) that adorn the outer courtyard is rare spectrum. Ph: 24641670 Time: 6:00 am 12:00am and 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm.
The 8th century shrine at Mylapore is dedicated to Arulmigu Kapaliswarar, an aspect of Lord shiva. This beggest temple of chennai was built by the Pallavas further additions were made during the rule of the cholas, Pandyas and the vijayanagara kings. Its fortifications were done by the French in 1672, against the Dutch forces. The splendid shrine displays typical dracidian style of architecture, with beautiful gopurams, mandapams and tank. Its imposing seven storeyed gopuram (tower) over the main entrance rises to a height of 37 metres.
Not far from Triplicane, in Mylapore, there is yet another 8th century Pallava temple. The temple 'Gopuram' (tower) is characteristic of Dravidian style architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has some beautiful sculptures, among which the bronze idols of 63 Saivite Saints (Nayanmars), which adorn the outer courtyard are rare specimens. Also in the courtyard under the old Punnai tree is a small shrine depicting Goddess Parvathi in the form of a Peacock Worshipping Lord Shiva.It is from this legend that Mylapore derived it's name -'myil' meaning peacock and 'oor' meaning town.Mylapore swarms with life during the Arupathu Moovar festival that is held in March-April every year.
Parthasarathi temple
The shrine is dedicated to Lord Krishna as Parthasarathi, the divine charioteer. According to a legend, Saptha Rishi,s have worshipped the five deities in this temple, known as Pancha Veeras.They are Venkata Krishnaswamy with Rukmini, Satyaki, balaraman, Pradyumna and Aniruddha.
The processional deity of Parthasarathi, with arrow marks on the face caused by Bhishma in the battle of Kurukshetra, is a captivating image. The changing colour of the face of the deity is a rare phenomenon.
One of the most famous temples [les of Chennai, the Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane or Thiruvallikeni, is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Built by the Pallavas in the 8th century, several additions were made by the Cholas and the Vijayanagara kings. The most important thing about the temple is that it also has images of the five incarnations of Vishnu including that of a wounded Krishna.
The ancient temple at Triplicane, near the Marina Beach is one of the 108 sacred shrines of Lord Vishnu. Lord Krishna is worshipped here as Parthasarthy or the charioteer (sarthy) of Arjuna (partha). The present structure is said to temple structure in the city.
This temple in Triplicane is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The Pallavas originally built the temple in the 8th century A.D. though additions were later made to it by the Chola and Vijayanagara kings.
Fort St. George
This bastion derived its name from St. Geroge, the patron saint of England. The State Legislature and the secretariat are located here. The Fort houses St. Mary's church, which is the oldest Anglican church in India built in 1680. The tombstones in its courtyard are the oldest British tombstones in India.The entry to Fort St George is through the Sea Gate, once right on the beach. Before the harbour was built, ships had to unload both passengers and goods into small boats that brought them through the dangerous surf onto this beach. The collection of captured cannone in front of the museum is worth a look, some with Arabic and Chineses inscriptions. Another has the C7 monogram of Christian Vll showing it to have come from Tranquebar, which the British purchased from the Danes and secretariat, and still fulfills its original function as the state assembly of Tamil Nadu meets here.
Fort St. George occupies a place of pride and prominence in Chennai. The British East India Company under the direct supervision of Francis Day and Andrew Cogon built it in 1640 AD. This bastion achieved name from St. George, the patron saint of England. The fort houses St. Mary's Church and fort museum. St. Mary's Church the oldest Anglican Church in India built in 1680 and the tombstones in its courtyard are the oldest British tombstones in India. This ancient prayer house solemnized the marriages of Robert Clive and Governor Elinu-Yale, who later founded the Yale University in the States. The Fort Museum is the repository of rare exhibits of weapons, uniforms, coins, costumes, medals and some other artifacts dating back to the British period. The flagstaff at Fort St. George is still the tallest in India. South of the Fort is the War Memorial, a graceful monument built in 1939 in memory of the warriors who sacrificed their lives during the First World War. The Island Grounds, the biggest lung space in the city is situated on an island formed by the river Cooum. This ground is the eventful venue of Trade and the Tourist Fairs held periodically which are seasonal attractions. The High Court with the decorative domes and corridors reminiscent of Indo/Saracenic architecture and the adjacent Parry's corner are the important landmarks of Chennai. This area is always crowded and active. Built in 1892, the High Court of Chennai is believed to be the second largest judicial complex in the world.
The best thing in the museum (9am-5pm, closed Friday), is a model of the fort in its definitive form during the first half of the 19th century. Fort St George was essentially a landward defence; the walls you see as you enter were only a battery covering the shore. Land reclamation for the new harbour has left this high and dry, and modern encroachments make it hard to see the elaborate western defences. Prints engraved by the Daniells, English artists who traveled in India around the turn of the 19th century, show how monuments in Madurai and elsewhere looked at that time, The portrait gallery on the first floor was an exchange for the merchants of the East India Company.
The interior of the fort is marred by modern administrative buildings, but you will easily find the church os St Mary, the oldest (1680) Anglican Church in India. Robert Clive was married here, it is linked with Elihu Yale who founded the university, and the many memorials make fascinating reading. Clive Corner preserves ephemera associated with the empire builder, ask the ASl office behind the church.
The fort withstood a French siege in 1759, something its smaller predecessor had failed to do in 1746. Eventualy it was superseded by the Napier Battery to the south; this was demolished a few years ago. A matching battery stood in the south of the city. These fortifications were necessary; quite apart from all the trouble with the French, not to mention Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan, Chennai was bombarded in both World Wars. In 1914 the German cruiser Emden made one of her startling appearances, and in the Second World War Japanese aircraft dropped bombs. The museum has mementoes of both occasions.
The first bastion of British power in India was built in 1640 and is a fine example of the 17th century British military architecture. The fort now houses the state Legislative Assembly and Council as well as offices of the secretariat.
Fort Museum
This is a treasure house of rare exhibits of weapons, uniforms, coins, costomes, medals and other artifact of the British period. Ph: 25671127 entry Fee: India - Rs.5/-, foreigners: Rs.100/-or 2 US$. Time: 10:00 am -5pm, Holiday: Friday.It is housed in an 18th century building within the fort and showcases the history of British in India.
The Marina
World's second longest beach with a broad sand shore is the most favorite place for local people & tourists to relax. Cool off the heels in the waves or just stroll in the sands, in between pick a few sea-shells. Chennai's palace, University of Madras, Vivekanandar Illam, Presidency collage dot the drive on the beach road. The Memorials of Former chief Ministers of Tamilnadu - Anna & MGR and statues of Tamil poets are also located here.Marina beach is located on the eastern side of Chennai, adjoining the Bay of Bengal. Watching the sun set and rise from the beach is an enthralling experience. Though bathing and swimming can be dangerous, as the undercurrent is very strong, still people come for swimming here.
The sandy beach is considered to be the second longest in the world. It extends up to 13kms and is lined with majestic buildings built in Indo-Saracenic architecture. The memorials of Anna and MGR are also located here.
Marina Beach, the pride of Chennai, is the second largest beach in the world and has a wide sandy foreshore. Situated on the beach, the Anna and MGR samadhis, which are the memorials of the most popular former Chief Ministers of the State attract good crowd everyday. An aquarium is also located on the Marina Beach. Some of the most beautiful buildings in Chennai such as the University of Madras,Senate-House,Chepauk Palace, Presidency College, P.W.D office and Ice House are located on the beach drive
Theosophical society
The world headquarters of the Theosophical society formed to facilitate and encourage the study of comparative religions, philosophy and science, is situated in a beautiful sylvan setting in Adyar. Apart from shrines of all faiths and the peaceful Garden of Remembrance, there is a 95 year old library which has a very good collection of rare oriental manuscripts written on palm leaf and parchment. Holiday: Sunday. Ph: 24912904/24918431.Santhome Cathedral Basilica
Santhome Basilica derives its name from St. Thomas, an apostle of Christ. It is one of the three churches that are built over dome of the apostles of christ. In 1606 the church was re-built as a cathedral in the gothic style of architecture and in 1896 it was made a basilica. The beautiful stained glass windows at the basilica portray the story of St. Thomas. Now this basilica is elevated to the status to National Shrine. Santhome Museum Time: 9.00am-6.00pm. Ph: 24985455.The beautiful stained glass window at the basilica portrays the story of St Thomas and the central hall has 14 wooden plaques depicting scenes from thelast days of Christ. In the cathedral is a 3ft. high statue of Virgin Mary, which is believed to have been brought from Portugal in 1543.
This landmark of chennai is one of the three basilicas in the world to be built over the tombs of Christ's apostles. St. Thomas, an apostle of Christ was buried here in a chapel. The present structure was built in neo Gothic style by the first Bishop of Mylapore, Dom Henriques Reed de silva in 1898. Its two spires rise up to 55 metres, dominating the skyline.
San Thome at the southern end of Marina derives its name from St Thomas, the apostle of Christ who is believed to have come to Madras sometime during 52 AD. He was killed on St Thomas Mount just outside the city in 78 AD. and was interned in San Thome beach where a church was later built. Several years later, another church was built further inland and his mortal remains were transferred from the old church to the new one. In 1606 the church was rebuilt as a cathedral and in 1896 it was made a basilica. The beautiful stained glass window at the basilica portrays the story of St Thomas and the central hall has 14 wooden plaques depicting scenes from the last days of Christ. In the cathedral is a 3ft. high statue of Virgin Mary, which is believed to have been brought from Portugal in 1543.
Elliot's Beach
The beautiful beach near Besant Nagar, Adyar is quieter, cleaner and relaxing as compared to the famous Marina. Other attractions near the beach are – Annai Velankanni church and Ashtalaxmi Temple.Following the road along the coast down south from Marina one will come to Elliot's beach where you can spend a few hours relaxing. At the end of this beach are the Velankanni church and the Ashtalakshmi temple. Though the church is much smaller than the original one at Velankanni it attracts its own share of pilgrims. The Ashtalakshmi temple dedicated to goddess Lakshmi looks quite different from the usual South Indian temples as it is a modern granite tier construction, not even 20 years old.
St. Mary's Church
This is the oldest Aglican church in India built in 1680 and the tombstones in its courtyard are the oldest British tombstones in India. This ancient prayer house solemnised the marriages of Robert Clive and Governor Elinu-Yale, who later founded the Yale University in the States.It is the oldest Anglican church in India, perhaps in entire Asia and the oldest surviving construction of the British in India. The church was consecrated in 1680 and houses several outstanding examples of workmanship of considerable historic as well as of aesthetic value.
Kalakshetra
Kalakshetra or "temple of Art" was founded in 1936 by Rukmani Devi Arundale to train, encourage and revive interest in Bharatanatyam, which is the classical dance form of the state. Ph: 24521844. Entry Fee Rs.50/-Kalakshetra is the intenationally renowned insitute of classical music and dance. Eminent artists teach here and students from all over the world come here learn various forms of classical dance and fine arts of India.
This ‘Temple of Art' is one of the most important schools of classical Indian music and dance. It is situated near the Theosophical society and was started in 1936, by Bharatnatyam danseuse Rukmini Devi Arundale. Weaving and Hand - Woven textiles are also the specialised subjects of study at this centre.
In Thiruvanmiyur, beyond Elliot's beach, is Kalakshetra or 'Temple of Art'. It was founded in 1936 by Rukmini Devi Arundale to train, encourage and revive interest in Bharatanatyam, which is the classical dance form of the state. This institution is among the finest of its kind in the country and is run on the ancient gurukulam system. Throughout the year Kalakshetra conducts music recital and dance performances in different parts of Chennai. Details about venue and timings can be obtained from the daily newspapers or ascertained from the information desk of the Government of India Tourist Office at 154, Anna Salai or from the Govt. of Tamil Nadu Tourist Office, Panagal Building, Saidapet, Chennai 600015.
Birla Plenetarium
For minds with a thirst and thrills of the space, the computerised projector offers unlimited joy. Audio Visual programmes take you to the galaxy for a ride into astronomy. Adjoining the planetarium is the periyar science & Rechnology Meseum. Programme: (English) 10:45 am, 1:15 pm and 3:45 pm (Tamil) 12:00 am and 2:30 pm. entry Fee: Adult Rs.20/-, Child Rs.10/- Ph: 24915250.One of the most modern planetariums of India.
The Birla Planetarium at Kotturpuram, between Adyar and Guindy, is the most modern planetarium in the country. Adjoining the planetarium is a Periyar Science and Technology Museum which will be of interest to students and other science scholars.
Vivekanandar Illam (Museum)
It is an imposing buildeing on the Marina along the beach road constructed in 1842 to store ice bars imported from the USA by the Tudor ice company. Swami Vivekananada stayed in this historic building from February 6 to 15 in 1897. The photographs depicting the historical happenings associated with his life are displayed here in the Museum. Time: 10:00am - 12:30 am, 3:00 pm.7:00 pm. Wednesday Holiday. Ph: 28446188. Entry fee: Adult Rs.2/-, Child Rs.1/-Tidel Park
Chennai's newest pride is Tidel Park, a comfy and efficient home for the Information Technology Industry. Spread over 1.28 million sq.ft. built up area, Tidel Park is an architectural marvel of these times.Children's Park
Within the limits of Guindy National Park, there lies a children's park and snake Park. Ph: 22301328, time: 9:00 am.5:30 pm, Holiday: Tuesday. Entry Fee: Adult Rs.5/- and child Rs.2/- (For Both).Guindy National Park
The Deer Park (spread on 595 acres) situated adjacent to Raj Bhavan was originally a part of the governor's Estate. This is the only national park situated within a Metropolitan City. Botanically very rich with more than 30 trees species which inculde a number of centuries-old gigantic banyan trees. Ph: 22301328. Time: 9:30 am, 5:30 pm (Only on permission)It covers an area of 270 hectares near Raj Bhawan and is the smallest National park in India. The park is home to the black buck, an endangered species. Other fauna seen here are spotted deer, civer cat, jackal etc.
Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur)
Its main attractions are: Safari parks, a nocturnal animal house, an Aquarium, Natural Museum etc.The Government Museum
National Art Gallery, Gallery of Contemporary Arts and Children's Museum also lie in the Museum Complex.Snake Park
It is located next to the National Park and is first of its kind in the country. Snake demonstrations are also held every hour in a pit near the entrance.Little Mount
It is believed that St. Thomas, the Apostle parayed and preached on this hillock, along the south bank of Adyar, near Saidapet. The hillock has a naturaol rock cave where the Apostle is said to have lived for a while, two churches and a grotto enshrining ‘Our Lady of Lourdes'.Valluvar Kottam
Standing memorial to the immortal Tamil Saint philosopher Thiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is in fact the replica of the temple chariot in Thiuvarur. A life size statue of the saint has been installed in the 39 metre tall chariot. The auditorisum can accommodate about 4000 spectators. Time: 9:00 am, 5:00 pm. Entry Fee: Adult Rs.3/- and child Rs.2/-. Ph: 28172177.The memorial to the poet-saint, Tiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is, in fact, the replica of the chariot in Thiruvarur. A life size statue of the saint has been installed in the chariots, which is 33m tall. The 133 chapters of his famous work, Thirukkural have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. The auditorium at Valluvar Kottam is said to be the largest in Asia and can accomodateabout 4000 people. It stands as a moden memorial to the great poet who represents the glorious culture of the Tamils.
The beautiful memorial honours thiruvalluvar, one of the most renowned Tamil poet and sage. It was built in 1976 and is a replica of a temple chariot in thiruvarur. There are three levels – the lower level has an ‘Aranga Mandapam' (auditorium), with a seating capacity of 4,000. The next level consists of the thirukkural balcony, where 133 granite slaqbs bearing 1330 kurals (couplets) of the Thirukkural are mounted on 67 pillars around the big hall. At the third and highest level, a 1.5 metres high kalamkari painted dome crowns the massive 2700 ton sculpted granite chariot.
St. Thomas Mount
Atop the 76 metre high mount where St. Thomas was martyred, is an old church, which was built by the portuguese around 1514. Among the interesting relics in the church is an old stone cross which the apostle is said to have clutched in his hand while dying. On the wall above the altar is an oil painting of the Madonna which was brought to India by St. Thomas and is said to be one of the seven that were painted by St. Luke.The holy hill near the road to the Meenamabakkam airport is about 13kms from the city centre. It was here on a fateful day in the year 72 AD, the Apostle was pierced to death with a lance by his persecutors.
Govt. Museum, National Art Gallery & Connemara Library
The Pantheon complex was built before 1789 and was a place of assemblage for the British till the Government bought it in 1930. Later, several new buildings were added to it. Today this complex houses the Government Museum, the National Art Gallery and the Connemara Public Library.The Museum was established in 1857 and has the country's best collection of south Indian Bronzes. It also has geology, anthropology, botany, zoology and second century marble sculptures that were unearthed from the Buddist ruins at Amaravathi. The National Gallery exhibits several beautiful painting, which include 16th & 18th century ones from Rajasthan (Mughal period) Time: 9:00am 4.30am. Friday Holiday. Entry Fee: Adult Rs.15/- and child Rs.10/-. Foreign tourists Rs.250/- or 5 US$. Ph: 28193238. Connemara Library: Ph: 28193751.
The Government museum of Chennai is a grand repository of ancient historical treasures. It is the first government-sponsored museum in the country opened in Chennai in 1851. The building originally belonged to a group of eminent British citizens, known as the "Pantheon committee". Then there is the fort Museum which is repository of rare exhibits of weapons, uniforms, coins, costumes, medals, etc., dating back to the British period.
It is housed in the magnificent Pantheon complex built before 1789, in in Indo – Saracenic style. The museum has sections on geology, archaeology, anthropology, botany, zoology, numismatics, sculpture and armoury. The National Art Gallery, nearby has an impressive collection of old paintings and modern art.
Wallajah Mosque
The magnificent mosque flanked by two minarets with golden domes was built in 1795, by Muhammad Ali Khan Wallajah, the Nawab of Carnatic. Nearby, are the tombs of former Nawabs of Carnatic.Thousand Lights Mosque
The majestic shia Muslim mosque was originally built in 17th century by the members of the Wallajah family. The shrine gets its name from the thousand lamps that used to be lit at twilignt in the old mosque.Other shrined in the city
Vadapazhani Andavar (Murugan) temple; Siva-Vishnu temple at T. Nagar; Ashta Lakshmi temple at Adyar; Rajarajeshwari and Hanuman temples at Nanganammur; oaalvanna Nathar (Siva) temple at Thiruvanmiyur; Kandaswamy (Murugan) temple near Central; Ekambareswarar temple in north Chennai.Temples around Chennai
Mangadu
Kamakshi Amman temple. The Goddess is depicted as doing penance by standing in the midst o ffive (Panchaagni) in a mango field in order to marry Lord Siva.Thiruverkadu
Karumariamman temple.Thiruvotruyur
Adipuriswarar temple. Saivite saint Pattinathar attained mukti here. Devotees worship at the Pattinathar Samadhi.Thiruvallur
Here is a temple of Sri Veeraraghava Perumal, reclining on Adi sesha. Lord Vishnu came here as athithi to bless a rishi by name Chalihothrar, partook a meal with him and remained here.Thirukazhukundram
Vedagiriswarar temple situated on top of a hill. Two kites are believed to worship Siva in this place in order to attain salvation. They visit the temple on the hill every midday when they are fed.Madurantakam
The main deities in the temple here are Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. Sri Karuinakaramurti is also enshrined. Rama and Lakshmana had stopped over here and worshipped this deity.Melmaruvathur
Adi Parashakti temple.Tiruthani
It is one of the six abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of Lord Muruga. He stands on top of the Thanigai Hill. The temple has a majestic gopuram, and there are four prakarams. There are also several theerthams in the shrine. The Lord is worshipped as Gnana shaktidharar (one who bestows Gnana on His devotes). His consorts Valli and deivayanai are enshrined in the prakaram.Adi Krithigai (July-Aug) is celebrated with great pomp when a large number of devotees perform Kavadi worship and do Annadhaanam. Thirupadai Thiruvizha is another festival celebrated on the eve of every New Year, when devotees climb the holy 365 steps singing Thirupugazh bhajans.
Sholingar
Here are shrines dedicated to Lord Yoga Narasimbha and Lord Yoga Anjaneya on two hills. An unusual feature about Anjaneya is that He has Shanku and Chakra in His hands given by Sri Narasimha. Many devotees untertake a vow to go round the hills. People with mental affictions also visit these shrines and get themselves cured.Excursions
Crocodile Bank (44 km)
Run by the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in ECR, here several species of Indian crocodiles and alligators from around the world are bred in captivity. These reptiles are kept in their natural habitat in open pools and can be viewed from a safe proximity. Entry Fee: Adult Rs.20/- child Rs.10/- Time: 10:00 am 5:00 pm. Holiday- Monday. Ph: 27472447 Location 42 km from Chennai is a large farm of about 3.2 h3ctares where several species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are berd in captivity. This crocodile bank was started in 1976 by herpetologist, Romulus Whitaker. The Chennai Crocodile Bank is situated on the way to Mahabalipuram and is run by Romulus Whitaker. About 5000 species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are kept open pools and their natural sorroundings.Not far from Mamallapuram, this crocodile breeding and research centre is run by Romulus Whittaker. Here several species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are bred in captivity. The reptiles are kept in their natural habitat in open pools and can be viewed from safe proximity. This farm breeds crocodile to augment the crocodile population of the wildlife sanctuaries.
Arignar Anna Zoological Park (30 km)
Animals are kept in a large open island type enclosure with simulated natural environment. Other attractions are Nocturnal Animal House, Safari Park, walk through Aviary, pre-historic Animal Park, zoo education and interpretation, prey-predator enclosures and an Aquarium around the Zoo, besides Elephant Ride and Lion Safari vehicles. Time: 9.00am, 5.00pm Holiday: Tuesday. Entry Fee: Adult Rs.15/- child Rs.10/- Ph: 22751089.The zoo spereds over an area of 1,265 acres and is said to be the largest in South Asia. It attempts to provide a natural habitat to the several species of animals and birds. a rope way and mono - rail, a lion and bison safari park, nocturnal animal house, natural museum and an aquarium are other attractions of this impressive zoo.
Pulicat (60 km)
Pulicat Lake, which is India,s second laegest brackish water lagoon, is a breeding ground for rare birds. It has about 16 island villages and 30 adjoining the lake. The lake offers a good potential for eco tourism. The principal bird that visits Pulicat lake is flamingo and that visits in large numbers every year. Ph: 27976245.This ‘paradise' for bird lovers covers an area of 50 sq.kms on the Tamil Nadu - Andhra Pradesh border. It comprises of mostly a lagoon and stretches of marshy land on the Coromandel coast. The vast brackish water Pulicat Lake attracts a large number of migratory and resident birds like greater and lesser flamingoes, grey pelicans, open billed storks, spoon bills, little cormorants, ducks, teals, terns, gulls etc. Boating facilities are also available. The reserve forest area has animals like jackals, slender loris, spotted deer, monitor lizard, tortoise, cobra, Russel viper etc. Pulicat is 10kms from sullurpet railhead and lies on the chennai - Kolkata road.
Muttukadu (36 km)
This is an ideal picnic spot. TTDC. Runs a Boat House where facilities for boating is available. Ph: 27472369.The backwaters of Muttukadu have been developed by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation to serve as a scenic picnic spot and a centre for water sports. In February every year, a windsurfing regatta is organised in Muttukadu. Competitions in windsurfing and other water sports are also held. Training and demonstration programs are held for youth.
Mamallapuram (60 km)
The world Heritage Monuments of Mallapuram are of Pallava period dating back to 7th & 8th centuries. Beach Resort facilities to enjoy the sand, surf & sun are available. One time entry fee for all monuments: Indian Rs.10.00 Foreigners: 5 US$. Timings: 6:30 am, 5:30 pm. Ph: 27442226. Dance Festival-Dec-Jan, Ph: 044-27442232.Sthalasayana Perumal temple. Besides this Viahnu temple. Pallava monuments are of great interest.These include Arjuna,s penance, Krishna Mandapam, Mahishasuramardhni Cave, Pancha Pandava Rathas, shore Temple and Varaha Mandapam.
Built in the 7th century, this ancient Pallava port is the site of several antique sculptural marvels. The only remaining shore temple is a spectacular two-spired shrine which is unique in that it houses shrines for Vishnu and Shiva.
The Pallavas had perfected the art of sculpting rocks to build temples without using brick, mortar or timber and the five monolith Raths (chariots) stand as the surviving masterpieces of Pallava sculpture.
Arjuna's penance is the world's largest bas relief measuring 27m by 9m. This sculptural panel shows animals, Gods and Angels contemplating the descent of the Ganges from it's source in the Himalayas and also depicts popular fables from the Panchatantra. Besides these, the Mahishamardhini Cave, the Krishna Mandapam and Varsha Mandapam also have beautiful reliefs depicting Vishnu reclining on the coils of seven-headed serpent, Krishna as incarnation of Vishnu lifting mount Goverdhana to protect his kinsman from the wrath of Indra respectively.
Dakshinachitra (35 km)
Founded by the Madras Craft foundation, has models of traditional handlooms and the replicas of the houses of Kancheepuram silk Weavers. The craftsmen and the weavers are at work demonstrating their skill and dexterity. The center showcases the heritage of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Ph: 24918943/27472603. Entry Fee: Indian Rs.50/- Student Rs.25/-. Foreigners Rs.175/- Foreign student Rs.70/- Holiday-Tuesday.It lies 12 km south of Cholamandal, overlooking the Bay of Bengal. The centre established in 1984, has sections for Tamil Nadu, Kerala, andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and provides a complete insight into the rich cultural heritage of the south. The secludsed backwaters at Muttukadu, just 500m north of Dakshina chitra are an excellent site for picnicsboating and other water sports.
Vedanthangal (85 km)
It is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. It is marshy, 30 hectare park with a lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. Season November-March. Entry Fee: Adult Rs.5/-, child 2/- Time: 7:00 am, 6:00 pmk Ph: 24321471 Vedanthangal is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. It is a marshy, 30 hectare park with lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. The majority of these birds can be seen between November and February. The variety of birds include Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Pelicans, Sandpipers, White Ibis, Cormorants,Blue winged teals and Swans.Mudaliarkuppam (67 km)
The Backwaters, the sand dunes and the calm beach make this place an ideal picnic spot. TTDC provides boating facilities to the tourists. Ph: 9952995829Gudiyam Caves (75 km)
Situated 10kms from Poondi Reservoir at Alikuzhi ghats, it is believed to be pre historic hominid habitation. There are about 16 ‘rock shelters' (naturally formed like canopy - like structures) in the reserve forest and ideal for trekkers and nature-lovers. Ph: 28194917.Amesment Parks Around Chennai
Amusement Parks around chennai are Kishkinta (Near Tambaram) Mayajal, MGM Dizzy World and V.G.P. Golden Beach (on the way to Mamallapuram) Dash in Splash, and Queens Land (near Poonamallee).V.G.P. Golden Beach (20 km)
The beautiful beach resort offers plenty of entertainment to young and the old alike. It is also a favourite film shooting location as there are artificial waterfalls, larger than life stucco sculptures and picture post - card settings.This beach resort is popular not just with the people of the city, but also with tourists. There is an entertainment arcade for children and for adults. There are folk dance performances apart from an Art Centre, which sells handicrafts and articles made out of seashells. The beach is clean and ideal for sunbathing.