India · City Guide
Chennai
Chennai is the cultural capital of South India and the gateway to Tamil Nadu, a city of magnificent Dravidian temples, outstanding classical music and dance culture, excellent South Indian cuisine, beautiful beaches and the extraordinary artistic heritage of Mahabalipuram and the temple towns of the Tamil heartland. From the Kapaleeshwarar Temple and San Thome Cathedral to Marina Beach and the ancient rock sculptures of Mahabalipuram, Chennai provides an outstanding introduction to the depth of South Indian civilisation.
Elect's take
"Chennai has a cultural confidence and a depth of South Indian tradition that I find genuinely compelling. The classical music and dance culture here is extraordinary and the combination of magnificent temple architecture, excellent food and the coastal setting creates a destination of remarkable depth."
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple in the Mylapore neighbourhood is a magnificent example of Dravidian temple architecture, its gopuram towers elaborately carved with hundreds of deities and mythological scenes. The December music and dance season, the Margazhi festival, transforms Chennai into the cultural capital of the classical Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance world with hundreds of performances across the city. Mahabalipuram, approximately 60 kilometres south, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary rock-cut temples and sculptures from the 7th century. Marina Beach at 13 kilometres is one of the longest urban beaches in the world.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
A magnificent Dravidian temple in the heart of Mylapore with extraordinary carved gopuram towers.
Margazhi Music Season
The world's greatest Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance festival held each December.
Mahabalipuram
A UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary 7th century rock-cut temples 60 km south.
Marina Beach
One of the world's longest urban beaches stretching 13 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal.
South Indian Cuisine
Outstanding Tamil cuisine from filter coffee and idli to Chettinad curries and dosas.
Government Museum
One of India's finest museums with outstanding collections of bronzes and South Indian art.
