Chennai (Tamil Nadu, India)

Chennai is a gracious city that has a clear skyline, long sandy beaches, parks, historic landmarks and tourist facilities which make it a convenient entry point or base to start your tour of Tamil Nadu and South India. Where religion is concerned, history has certainly left its mark on this city, which is believed to have been the place of St. Thomas, in the out skirt of the city. There are a number of churches in Chennai that are connected with the life and times of this apostle. There are also several ancient temples around the city, and within the city itself are two magnificent temples - a temple in Triplicane and another in Mylapore. The city is a leading commercial and industrial center in India, and has a diverse cultural heritage. From traditional vegetarian fair to fast foods, from nine-yard sarees to the latest in fashion, from ancient temple architecture to modern high-rise - with Indo-Saracenic and Victorian as stops along the way - from classical music and dance to discos throbbing to heady beats, Chennai has them all and many more vivid contrasts that are a pleasant surprise.

Sightseeing:

Crocodile Bank:
The Crocodile Conservation Center that is considered the largest croc-breeding site in India is the main attraction of the Crocodile Bank in Chennai. Crocodile Bank plays an important role in spreading awareness that crocodiles play an ecological role in feeding on the weak and sick fishes. Crocodiles are considered one of the most horrifying and unloved creatures and the Crocodile Bank is an endeavor in spreading love for these creatures.

Valluvar Kottam:
Valluvar Kottam comprises of a massive auditorium that is large enough to accommodate up to 4000 people at a time. Valluvar Kottam is constructed on a land that was filled with the city’s garbage and debris in Chennai. Eliminating the pillar support, the auditorium in Valluvar Kottam was built with grid type roofing. Stone in the corridor running inside and outside the auditorium are engraved with couplets from the Tirukkural.

Anna Zoological Park:
Known as one of the biggest zoological parks in South East Asia, Anna Zoological Park is a house to more than 170 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. Watch around 47 mammal species, 63 bird species, 31 reptile species, 5 amphibian species, 25 fish species and 10 insect species at none other than the Anna Zoological Park in Chennai. Every measure is taken by the veterinary section to take care of the species living in the Anna Zoological Park.

Birla Planetarium:
The main attraction of Birla Planetarium includes the sophisticated and versatile GM II projector. Get to see the most inspiring heavenly phenomena on the aluminum inner dome of the special effects projector at none other than the Birla Planetarium in Chennai.