If you’re looking for a city that’s both culturally diverse and unassuming, then Chennai is the place for you to visit on your vacation. Chennai is not only India’s fourth-largest city, but it is also the world’s 36th-largest metropolitan area. It’s also a must-see attraction in the state of Tamil Nadu. The city’s rich history and tradition have earned it the title of India’s cultural capital. The British laid the foundations of Chennai in the 17th century. It is, however, evident from some of the city’s most well-known structures that the city has a long and rich history that goes back much further than its recorded years. If you’re going to be in Chennai, don’t forget to check out these must-see attractions.
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Marina Beach
Everyone who visits Chennai naturally gravitates toward Marina Beach. Here you’ll find the world’s second-longest beach. It’s easy to enjoy a stroll along the beach thanks to the wide swath of silver sand. It’s a beautiful place to see the sunrise and sunset. Fishing, wind surfing, and beach volley ball are just a few of the activities available at Marina Beach.
Marina Beach, despite being the second-longest beach in the world, isn’t being properly cared for. However, if you’re a fan of the city’s spirit, you’ll be in heaven here. There is no admission charge here, but there is a tonne of fun to be had. If you’re here in the morning, you can watch the fishermen get their boats ready for the day. People bring their families here to have some fun in the evenings, and the place gets quite crowded. The beach is a gathering place for the wealthy and the down-and-out, for well-known celebrities and the average Joe. If you enjoy people watching, this is the perfect location for you.
The Semmozhi Poonga
Semmozhi Poonga is a refreshing break from the sweltering heat and a visual treat for tired eyes. At the end of 2010, the park opened its doors. The 20-acre park is located in the heart of the city and offers visitors the chance to see beautiful landscapes and lush gardens. Over 500 varieties of trees and plants from all over the world can be found in the well-kept gardens. This is in addition to the trees that existed in the area prior to the park’s construction. Some of the trees are more than a century old. Species of plants include aromatic herbs and medicinal plants. Looks like a real waterfall in the park’s artificial waterfall. The park is ideal for families with young children, thanks to the abundance of play structures. Seating arrangements for stretching are available for the elderly, who can go for a walk. So far, Semmozhi Poonga appears to be making genuine efforts to keep the area clean and green, unlike some other places in the city that don’t get the attention they deserve.
Huddleston Gardens
It is the goal of the Theosophical society to create a universal brotherhood in which there is no distinction between humankind. In order to improve humanity’s quality and power, the society’s essence is to combine the best teachings of all religions. The Theosophical Society’s global headquarters are located in Chennai. It is located in Adyar, a suburb of the city of Chennai, and is revered by people of all faiths. The organisation was founded in 1883. Birdwatchers will be in heaven at Huddleston Gardens, a 260-acre nature preserve. Migratory birds of all kinds can be found here. This is a spiritually uplifting place.
National Art Gallery
The red sandstone building has four sections, which include Tanjore Painting Gallery, Ravi Varma Painting Gallery, Indian Traditional Art Gallery, and Decorative Art Gallery. To the delight of artists, this museum displays some of the oldest paintings and handicrafts from the 11th century. Here at the Rock and Cave Art Gallery, you’ll find a variety of activities to keep the experience fresh, including a natural cave setting and interactive features like Son-et-lumiere, Tran slides, and touch screens.
Zoological Park
In the beginning, the zoo was located in Moor market, but in 1976, it was relocated to Vandalur. There are more than 170 species of animals in the zoo’s 510-hectare enclosure. Other animals found in this area include tigers and lions as well as a variety of hyenas. There are lion and elephant safaris available. The park’s entire length can be walked if you have the energy. If not, there are battery-operated vehicle rides available for your convenience.
Lake Pulicat
If you’re in Chennai, make sure to check out Pulicat Lake. You won’t find many places in Chennai that allow you to get in touch with nature. As a result, a trip to Pulicat Lake becomes even more essential. You’ll be able to unwind and enjoy yourself in this peaceful setting. Here, people love to take boat rides. When fishing from a boat, you are permitted to do so. For birdwatchers, this is a fantastic location. Nellapattu Bird Sanctuary, located near Pulicat Lake, is a great place to see flamingos, kingfishers, pelicans, ibis, and many other rare birds.
Temple of Kapaleeswarar
One of the city’s oldest temples, the Kapaleeswarar Temple, dates back to the 15th century. Who built the temple is a mystery. According to Nayanmars’ songs, Pallava kings built Kapaleeswarar Temple in the 7th century. The buildings don’t appear to be 400 years old, despite their appearance. Portuguese are believed to have razed and rebuilt Nayanmar’s original temple; this new one dates back to the 16th century. Sculpture and architecture in the Dravidian style can be found throughout the temple.
Little Mount Shrine
History abounds for the quaint little mountain shrine known as Little Mount Shrine. To avoid being killed, St. Thomas took refuge in this cave. Here, too, you can find a rock bearing the footprints of St. Thomas, which was not given the attention it deserved earlier to preserve it for future generations to see. The city of Chennai and Chennai International Airport can both be seen clearly from this vantage point in the city. If you’re looking for a taste of the past and a pleasant atmosphere, this is the place for you.
Breezy Beach
Breezy beach in Chennai, which is the city’s second-longest beach, attracts visitors because of its clean atmosphere. Located at Valmiki Nagar in Chennai, it is easily accessible. Since it hasn’t been developed for tourism, this small stretch of sand has a tranquil atmosphere. If you’re looking for a place to take a relaxing stroll, this is it. Because of the clear water, water sports are popular in this area. This is a popular spot for swimming because of the clear water.
Connemara Public Library
The library boasts a wealth of information covering a wide range of subjects, making it a great place to find rare and unique items. There is a fusion of Hindu Deccani, Gothic, Rajput and Mughal architecture in the library’s design. The periodic hall, the video room, and the reference room are all located in the library. The library also houses a Braille collection. The library’s impressive collection of books meets the demands of both students and professors. National Depository Libraries receive copies of all newspapers, periodicals, and books published in India from the National Library of India.