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When you travel to Chennai, you will love to visit popular tourist spots and enjoy the local culture. Amongst other Things to do in Chennai, you can surely explore some of the best things to do in Chennai to make your trip a fulfilling one. On a trip to Chennai things to do can include exploring Chennai attractions and visiting the places of interest.
As per the 2001 Census of India, around 81% of the total population of this city is followers of Hinduism. This region has always been a Hinduism dominated area. However, with the advent of the Europeans and subsequently other communities, it has now turned into a multicultural city.
Besides Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and Jainism are also persistent in this city. The temples of this city are one of its main attractions. One of the most famous is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. It is situated in Mylapore which is in the outskirts of the city of Chennai. Mylapore is the traditional hub of the city which has a history dating several centuries back. This temple is believed to be built in the 7th Century by the then rulers of the Pallava Dynasty. Here, one of the major Gods of the Hindus, Shiva is revered along with his consort, Parvati. This temple is especially famous for its gateway tower known as gopuram. It is a 120ft. tall structure which is adorned by thousands of stucco figures. Open on all days of the week, the temple remains closed every for four hours from the noon.
Chennai although being a metropolitan city, has also held on to its rich traditional past. Here, as the people lead a modern life, the traditional aspects of their culture also find an equal importance in their day to day lives.
The Carnatic music of this region is one of the classical styles of music in India. The Bharatnatyam style of dancing which is native to this region is also the official dance of this state. Children from a very young age learn these traditional forms of music and dance and achieve proficiency at a very young age. These classical forms of art require sincere dedication and passion, which allows them to excel in it.
In every December, there is a five week long event being organized known as ‘Music Season’ where several performances are given by classical artists around the different venues of the city. It is one of the world's largest cultural events that attract thousands of visitors to this city every year.
Steeped in rich South-Indian culture, Chennai is a city that has a plethora of dimensions that one can explore, and regardless of where you go, the city has an old-world charm to it that refuses to be overshadowed.
Chennai is located at the south–eastern coast of India. It is right on the thermal equator and therefore there is very less variation in the seasonal temperature.
Apart from a moderately hot summers and cool winters, it experiences monsoon that stays from October to December. Since it is situated on the shoreline facing the Bay of Bengal, it frequently experiences cyclones.
One of its natural heritages is Marina Beach that is known for its beauty and serenity. This 3 km stretch of coast offers to you the best sunrise and sunset views. Visit this amazing place and get lost in its charm.
Chennai has some of the oldest temples in the country, such as the Parthasarathy Temple, the Kapaleeshwarar Temple and the Ashtalakshmi Temple. All of these temples have very colourful facades with towering spires that are as intimidating as they are impressive.
Government Museum that was initially named as Egmore Museum was established in the year 1851. This is the second oldest museum in India, the first being the Indian Museum at Kolkata. Besides being one of the oldest museums, it is also one of the largest Museums in Asia. This museum premises comprises of six buildings and 46 galleries over an area of more than 16 acres. Apart from several types of exhibits ranging from numismatics to zoology, manuscripts and natural history, its archaeology sections is exemplary. Various bronze sculptures dating to several different periods are also worth watching. In the Madras Museum a Public Library was started in 1853 AD. It was opened to the public in June 1862 AD. The construction of the library and lecture hall began in December 1873 AD and completed in 1875 AD and formally opened by the Governor on March 16, 1876 AD. Captain Mitchell, Superintendent, was responsible for strengthening the library. He is regarded as the originator of the Connemara Public Library. This museum can be visited from Saturday to Thursday (9.30am to 5pm).
A very popular monument and is dedicated to the famous Tamil poet of this region, Thiruvalluvar. He was also known as a philosopher saint in whose memory this monument was built in 1976. This monument is built in the shape of a temple chariot in which a life size statue of the poet is installed.
Visit Kalakshetra Foundation, which is located in the south Chennai. Established in 1936, it is one of the leading schools of classical Tamil Music and Dance. This is also famous for kanchipuram weaving, so this art can also be witnessed here. There are several artists who work with the kalamkari art of textile printing that is very popular. These traditional art styles can be witnessed first hand here only, which will in turn enrich your experience.
