Chennai

State :

Tamil Nadu

Climate :

Chennai has three seasons - hot, hotter and hottest. Indeed, except for four pleasant months, November to February, the weather is uniformly hot and humid. May is the hottest month with the temperature sometimes rising to 42 degree celcius and the mean temperature about 33 degree celcius. December and January are the coolest months with a mean temperature of 24 degree celcius.

Significance :

This Capital City of Tamil Nadu is the Gateway to South India and also one of the most affluent cities of India.

Chennai - The Gateway to Southern India :

Chennai is one of the four metropolitan cities of India and the capital of southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Modern day Chennai is an important centre for trade, industry, tourism and healthcare . Though the city has developed fast and acquired a modern outlook, Chennai has still maintained its traditional grace and charm. The weather of Chennai is hot and sultry but the Marina beach and the cold sea breeze that blows continuously does have a very soothing effect.

History :

The British East India Company which came to India in the 17th century is credited of developing Chennai into a major trading centre of India. The Portuguese and Dutch had also come to Chennai for trading purposes prior to the British. Chennai has remained the torch-bearer of tradition, culture and life-style of southern India.

Connectivity :

• By Air - Flights operate from all important destinations of India to Chennai. International flights also operate to Chennai.
• By Rail - There are two major railway stations in Chennai- Chennai Central and Egmore. Chennai can easily be reached from all parts of India by train.
• By Road - Chennai is well connected to most of southern India by a good network of roads.

Highlights of the city :

• Marina Beach - The picturesque Marina Beach is the second longest beach in the world. The beach stretches up to 13 kms. Marina beach is most famous for its sunrise and sunset views. Tourists throng the beach in early morning and late evening to have glimpses of the rising and dripping sun. The evening market of small vendors selling attractive decorative items further adds colour to the place. Most tourists also come to Marina to have a leisurely walk in the evening.
• Kapaleeswarar Temple - Kapaleeswarar is the oldest temple of Chennai and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was built in the 13th century. This medieval period temple attracts devotees in very large numbers.
• St. George Fort - St George Fort was built by the British in the year 1653. The fort houses a museum that has an impressive collection of British and French antiques and other artifacts. Most part of the fort now houses the state secretariat. Within the vicinity of the fort is the St. Mary's Church, the first church in India.