Chennai is the home of delicious Chettinad cuisine and the famous Marina Beach. But apart from these, the city is also a popular hub for gold jewelry and silk sarees. The heritage sites of the city tell a story of a rule and place way different than now. Formerly a fishing village called Madraspatnam, now it is the home of the biggest artificial seaport in India. It is also the home of the Royapuram railway station which is the oldest railway station still operational in India and it is also the first city in India to get free Wi-Fi. So this city has something old, something new, which come together to make something amazing.
You can reach this fascinating city through the Chennai International Airport which welcomes both domestic and international passengers. Thus, it makes the city connected to major hubs across the world. You can easily book Dubai to Chennai flights, Hong Kong to Chennai flights, New Zealand to Chennai flights and more.
While in Chennai, the city offers up a lot of activities which you can indulge in like:
● Visit Santhome’s Church: The stained glass chapel houses a statue of St Thomas in a sitting position. Apart from the church, it also consists of a library, a shop selling prayer material and a museum.
● Admire the Kapaleeshwar Parthasarathy temples: A fine example of Dravidian craftsmanship, the Kapaleeshwar Temple is a specimen of architecture and measures 37 meters high in its Gopuram structure. On the other hand, the Parthasarthy Temple is a historical place in Chennai since it is touted to be the oldest temple in the city.
● Drive on the beach road: From Royapuram or Ennore to Besant Nagar or ECR is the ideal stretch of road to flex your driving muscles and enjoy the wind in your hair.
● Visit St Thomas Mount: Widely known to be the site of St Thomas’ martyrdom in AD 72, the church is located along with the Church of Our Lady of Expectation. The church is believed to house a cross St Thomas carved and a fragment of his finger bone. Ideal for visiting in the evenings, you will be able to enjoy beautiful panoramic views from here.
● Be in awe at the Guindy Park and Snake Park: The only national park that is situated in the middle of a city and houses a rich population if animals, birds, and reptiles. You will be able to see spotted deer, jackals, and tortoise in here. The Snake Park, as the name says is home to pythons and cobras but birds like flycatchers, buzzards, quail, and partridge can also be easily spotted.
● Visit Armenian Church: This 18th-century church is reminiscent of the Armenian community which called the city its home centuries ago. Open from around 9 till noon, the church is a great example of stunning architecture. If you want some peace and quiet to gather your thoughts then the surroundings of the church will offer you to meditate on.
Chennai is a busy but laid-back city where you will be able to enjoy all of its delights in utmost safety and serenity.