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.
