Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
Chennai
The Gateway to South India
And
By
Having worked in the Indian Council for Cultural Relations at Chennai, and being one
among the first batch of Tourist Guides trained by the Government of India Tourist Office,
Chennai, he had good exposure of handling VIP guests from abroad as well Foreign and
Indian Tourist groups. He is well versed of the archaeological and Historical places of
tourist interest in Southern India.
His books “The Path of Ramanuja”, “Guide to 108 Divya Desams”, “Guide to 275 Siva
Sthalams” and “Vision of Guru Raghavendra” have been well received in the religious
circles.
Chennai:
The Gateway to the South is turning the hub for tourists visiting Southern India. A
comprehensive Guide covering all the segments has been a long felt need to the visitors.
This Guide highlights the minute details of information of all the areas, and is designed as
one stop travel shop for all the travel related information on Chennai. First of its kind, you
will find details of the history and culture of Chennai, places to religious and tourist
interest, travel agents, tour operators, Hotels and airlines, shopping and other relevant
travel tips. The objective is very simple, to provide one with complete information to plan
their schedules and organize their trips in and around the city. Since several authors have
referred to the original texts, a certain degree of coincidence is likely to occur in my
presentation with regard to choice of words and phrases, which is not intentional.
While the inputs have been compiled from authentic sources, I take no responsibility
regarding the locations of establishments and telephone numbers, as they are subject to
change from time to time.
- T Sampath Kumaran
Index:
• History of Madras – Chennai
• Climate
• Cultural activities
• Chennai Cuisine
• Festivals
Shopping in Chennai
Medical Tourism
• Places of Tourist importance in the City
• Introduction to South Indian Temples
• Temples in the City
• Temples around Chennai
• Other religious places in Chennai
• Places of Tourist interest around Chennai
• Annexture
The Portuguese arrived in 1522 and built a port called San Thome (Which is now a part of
the City) after the Christian apostle, St Thomas, who is said to have preached in the area
between 52 and 70 CE. In 1612, the Dutch established themselves near Pulicat, just north
of the city. But they could not sustain to establish a rule over the land.
Later the British built a fort, Fort St. George (which today is the legislative and
administrative seat of the state). It was named after the Patron Saint, since it was
completed on St George's day, 23rd April, 1640. The settlement which had grown up around
Fort St. George, was named Chennapatanam, in honour of Chennappa Nayak, father of
Venkatapathy Nayak, who controlled the entire coastal country from Pulicat in the north to
the Portuguese settlement of Santhome. In course of time another small village to the
south, called Madraspatnam also started developing. This small village known as
Chennapatnam later merged with Madraspatnam, and was called Madras in a shortened
form.
In 1746, Fort St.George and Madras town and its outlying villages were captured by the
French under General La Bourdonnais, the Governor of Mauritius. The British regained
control in 1749 through the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle and by the late eighteenth century,
the British established the Madras Presidency conquering most of the regions of the
present states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and adjoining Tamil Nadu and made Madras
as the capital. The city grew up around the English settlement of Fort St. George, (the area
is still known as George Town) and gradually absorbed the surrounding towns and
villages. The British developed the city into a major urban centre and established a naval
base. During the World War I, German light cruiser “SMS Emden” shelled an oil depot at
Madras, as it raided shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean, causing disruption to shipping.
Chennai, the fourth largest metropolis in India is the capital of Tamil Nadu, and is
popularly regarded as the Gateway to the South. It is, located on a 17 km stretch of the
Coromandel Coast, of the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is one of the rapidly growing and
changing cities of India. Once a conservative society, Chennai with the global spurt in
technology and communication, today boasts of a technology savvy population in the
Southern region. Chennai the most vibrant and enchanting cities of the South is also a
classic example of the peaceful coexistence of the ancient with the modern.
The city presents a strange mix of British Raj-era monuments, Portuguese churches,
Pallava architecture and Hindu temples, as well with the natural settings of one of the
longest urban beaches on earth. C
Two rivers pass through the City, the “Coovam River” through the centre and the “Adyar
River “to the south. These rivers were earlier used to navigate commercial goods, but
today they are highly polluted and are an eye sore to the public. Chennai is currently
divided into four parts: North Chennai - primarily an industrial area, Central Chennai - the
commercial heart of the city, South and Western Chennai which were residential areas and
have now grown fast with business houses, and very recently an IT Corridor has been
established.
Chennai Climate:
Since Chennai lies on the coast and closer to the thermal equator, it does not have
variations in seasonal temperature. For most of the year, the weather is hot and humid.
The hottest part of the year is during May, June, and July popularly known in Tamil as
Kathiri Veyyil, with maximum temperatures hovering around 40 °C (105°F). The cooler
months are December and January with an average temperature of 24 C which is the best
time for the tourists to visit the city. Chennai summers being humid and sultry; it's
advisable to move around during the day with an umbrella and bottled water. During
September, October the city gets most of its seasonal rainfall from the north-east
monsoon, and sometimes it will pour heavily for a couple of days resulting in heavy
flooding of roads and traffic disrupted.
Chennai city has a population of around 7.5 million, of which the slum dwellers form
around 20%. Migration from villages continues to swell.
Chennai is the base for the large Tamil movie industry, located at Kodambakkam, named
as Kollywood after Hollywood. It's not just temple Gods who are worshipped here, much
as in California, screen gods are adored by the local population, who even paved the way
to get elected to the highest political office. In fact, the majority of Tami Nadu's leaders
had their footing of their careers on the big screen. Chennai has a vibrant theatre scene,
with a large number of Tamil plays being performed. Chennai's theatres present many
Tamil plays – with political satire, comedy, history, mythology. English plays are also
popular with Chennaites.
Though Tamil is the main language of the people, English is widely spoken especially
among white collar professionals, business, and educational institutions.
Chennaites love to use their own mother tongue Tamil, and a sort of loose linguistic
amalgamation of words mixed from Tamil, English, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and
Hindi, exhibiting the national integration called “Madras bashai”, is predominantly spoken
in the city. This is more popular among the slum dwellers.
There is also a sizeable Telugu speaking minority in the city. Other languages spoken
include Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi and Urdu. Being a regional hub since British times,
Chennai has a large number of Marwari traders. Other prominent communities are the
Anglo Indians, Bengali, and Punjabi as well people from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Accommodation and dinning facilities in Chennai offers a great variety of options and it
can accommodate people with varying choice and budget without any hassles.
Transport:
The International Airport, named Anna International Airport and the Kamaraj Domestic
Airport combined are the third busiest airports in India. The city is connected to major
hubs in South Asia, South East Asia, the Middle East, Europe and North America through
many international carriers. The airport is also the second busiest cargo terminus in the
country.
Chennai Port, is one of the largest artificial ports, and is India's second busiest container
hub, handling automobiles and general industrial cargo. The Ennore port handles cargo
such as coal, ore and other bulk products. A smaller harbour at Royapuram is mainly
used by local fishing boats and trawlers.
Chennai is well connected to other parts of India by road and rail. The Chennai Mofussil
Bus Terminus (CMBT) is a well planned terminus for all intercity buses, and it is the
largest bus station in Asia. Government-owned transport, as well of Private operators, run
services to and from Chennai.
The city has two main railway terminals. Chennai Central station, the city's largest,
provides access to trains to major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangaluru, Delhi,
Hyderabad, and Coimbatore. Chennai Egmore operates trains primarily within Tamil Nadu.
The Chennai suburban railway network, connects the suburban area, and the recently
commissioned elevated Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) which links Chennai Beach to
Velacheri provide rapid transport within the City as well interlinked with the remaining rail
network.
Buses, trains, and auto rickshaws are the most common form of public transport within
the city.
The Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) runs an extensive city bus system
consisting of nearly 3000 buses on more than 550 routes and transports an estimated 3.85
million passengers daily. Vans, popularly known as Maxi Cabs, ply many routes in the city
providing an alternative to buses. Metered call taxis, tourist taxis and auto rickshaws are
also available on hire. Though metered one has to bargain much with the Autoriksha
drivers to fix a reasonable price to travel. Though Chennai's transportation infrastructure
provides easy coverage and connectivity, of late it has caused traffic congestion and
pollution.
Chennai Cuisine.
Tamil Nadu provides the visitor with a wide variety of delicious food both for the
vegetarians as well non-vegetarians and the staple diet for most is rice. The basic food is
prepared of grains, lentils, rice and vegetables. Spices are added to give a distinctive
taste. Many of the city's restaurants offer light meals or tiffin, which usually include rice-
based dishes like pongal, dosai, idli and vadai, served with steaming hot filter coffee, as
Chennaites have contempt for instant coffee. Tiffin or Light meals are served for breakfast
or as a snack.
Lunch or meals consists of cooked rice, served with an array of vegetable dishes like
sambar, chutneys, rasam (a hot broth made with tamarind juice and pepper) and curd
(yogurt). For a non-vegetarian lunch, curries or dishes cooked with mutton, chicken or fish
is included. The meals are incomplete without crisp papads or appalam. A typical Tamil
meal (Lunch or Dinner) will be served on a banana leaf. Chewing of a few betel leaves and
nuts after the meals was popular till very recently.
Chettinad cuisine is a specialty in Chennai and is a delight for those who like hot and
spicy non-vegetarian food. Recently quite a number of restaurants have sprung up serving
North Indian delicacies in Thali, a round tray. Generally no service charge is added, but it
is customary to leave a moderate tip. It is popular to eat at Fast food restaurants located
on the street, as many maintain them clean. The price is comparatiely very cheap and the
service is fast, preferred by those in a hurry. There are many popular sweet meat shops
which cater both South Indian and North Indian items.
Festivals in Chennai
Chennai is no exception to the festivals and fairs that are celebrated throughout India.
Pongal, a four-day harvest festival is the most celebrated festival of Chennai and Tamil
Nadu. Pongal is a Dravidian festival and is independent of religion. Pongal is also known
as Tamizhar Thirunal or the festival of Tamils
The first month in the Tamil calendar is Chittirai, which generally falls on April 14 or 15 of
the English calendar and Tamil New Year is another event of major celebration. Most of the
Indian festivals like Ganesh Chathurthi, Holi, Diwali, Dussehra, Eid and Christmas are
celebrated with gaiety and fervor in Chennai city.
Shopping in Chennai
Chennai offers a wide variety of traditional and trendy merchandise, such as carvings on
brass, stone, wood and ivory. It is popular for leather bikinis, bags and shoes. Chennai is
one of the major trade centers of south India and is a fantastic place to shop for a diverse
variety of items. Traditional items from all over Tamil Nadu like Mats woven like carpets
from Pattamara and the leaf and Palmyra-fiber handicrafts from Tirunellveli, Metal works
from Tanjavur, bronze and brass castings and traditional jewellery from Kumbakonam,
stone carvings from Mamallapuram and Silks from Kanchipuram - the beautiful
Kancheepuram hand woven silk sarees - are being sold in Chennai. The most popular
shopping centers are in located in T. Nagar, Mylapore and the arterial Anna Salai. For
Handicraft items Victoria technical institute, Poompuhar and the Khadi Gramodyog
Bhavan at Anna Salai are the best.
Plastic goods, stationary items, household items and the typical textiles and fabric in
wholesale at bargain price are available at Parry's Corner, which is yet another shopping
center. Close to Parry's corner is the Burma Bazaar which is popular with imported
electronic goods, and perfumes.
Medical tourism - where foreigners travel abroad in search of low cost, world-class
medical treatment - is gaining popularity in India particularly in cities like Chennai.
Chennai corporate hospitals excel in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery, joint
replacement, orthopedic surgery, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, and transplants.
Many of the surgeons at these hospitals in Chennai are leaders in their field, working with
the latest and best equipments available providing their expertise at a remarkably Low
cost.
• Connemara Library, located in Egmore, is one of the oldest libraries with a rare
collection of books.
• Government Museum, and National Art Gallery in Egmore, has interesting and
rare archaeological collections as well bronze icons. The National Art Gallery
constructed in 1906 presents a fabulous Indo-Saracenic edifice.
• Fort St. George, built in 1653 by the East India Company houses the Secretariat
and the legislative Assembly. There is a museum presenting the history of the
British rule. The fort also comprises the oldest Anglican Church, the church of St
Mary.
• Guindy National Park, This is the smallest national park in India and one of the
few located in a metro. Adjacent to this is a Children's Park with collections of
animals and birds.
• Guindy Snake Park, housing the deadly King Cobra, pythons and vipers as well
other reptiles. Is next to the Guindy National Park,
• Marina Beach, is the second longest beach in the world, lavishly spread over an
area of 13 km. Stalls put up on the beach offer local delicacies, sundal and
murukku.
• Elliots Beach is in the Besant Nagar suburb of Chennai, which is popular, a
place to cool off from the city’s heat. It is a nice beach, and a safe and good place
for picnicking.
• Breezy Beach is located in the quiet neighbourhood of Valmiki Nagar. It is
smaller and less popular than the Elliots beach. This beach is not as
commercialized as the Elliots beach, and is hence is more quiet and peaceful.
Chenni Entertainment
Amusement Parks, Water Sports Centers, Beaches:
The East Coast Road (ECR), which was then known as the New Mahabalipuram Road, had
VGP Golden Beach and Romulus Whittaker's crocodile bank. Now one can pick and
choose from Amusement Parks, Water Sports Centers, Beaches, Eco Conservation
Cultural and Religious Centers, Restaurants or Resorts to spend a day, for a perfect
entertainment and relaxation from the daily tiring routine of life.
The temples of Chennai exhibit the splendor of culture, religion and architecture of Tamil
state. Patronized by different ruling dynasties, the temple art touched its zenith in Tamil
Nadu. Monuments of great artistic value, these temples speak of the greatness of the
bygone era. The Pallavas, the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagar rulers, the Nayaks all
contributed to the Southern style of temples. The Chola and Pallava art and architecture
dominates the skyline of the entire state. The Vimana and the Gopurams are the distinctive
characteristics of the Southern style. A distinctive feature of the Tamilnadu temple is the
Gopura, the huge tower at the entrance. They are huge pylon like structures, consisting of
seven, nine or eleven storey. In contrast the tower over the sanctum, called the Vimana, is
small. The Chola kings of the 9th century AD built temples of modest height in granite.
Special attention was paid to the sanctum sanctorum where deities were placed in niches
as prescribed in the ritual treatises. Rajaraja Chola constructed the most grandiose of the
south Indian temples, 85 m in height, which is a marvel of symmetry and structural design.
5 m high dwarapalakas (guardians) stand at the entrance. From the 16th century AD, the
gopurams (entrance towers) under the Vijayanagar King Krishna Devaraya spiraled to
greater heights as much as 60 m. They came to be known as rayagopuras (royal towers)
after his name. The bases of these towers were built of stone and the entire superstructure
was of brick and mortar, painted and studded with hundreds of stucco figures. These
temples, some of which are more than 1500 years old, exhibit intricate carving and
sculptures bearing testimony to the craftsmanship and creativity of the artisans, sculptors
and artists of ancient India.
During olden days Temples acted as the place of learning, where discourses and cultural
programs were regularly held. It also provided as a meeting place for the residents for
social gathering. A trip to Chennai will never be complete unless one plans a tour to these
temples.
Ancient Temples: (These temples have the religious and historical background)
The Kapaleeswarar Temple is a very ancient temple. This 8th century Pallava temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated in the traditional part of Madras at Mylapore. The
original temple was submerged under the sea and the present temple structure was a later
construction. The Moolavar is Kapaleeswarar and the Amman is Karpagambal. There are
separate sannadhis for several deities such as Vinayagar, Annamalaiyar, Murugar, and
Saneeswara. There are several other deities such as Durgai, Dakshinamurthy,
Chandikeswarar located within the main Sannadhis of Kapaleeswarar and Karpagambal.
Karpagambal (Parvati) is said to have worshipped the Lord in the form of a peacock (Mayil
in Tamil) and hence the area came to be called Mylapore
As many as 63 Saivite saints or nayanmars sculpted in bronze adorn the outer courtyard.
The Nayanmars glorified Lord Shiva with enchanting hymns. A well known landmark in the
heart of Chennai, this temple is visited by thousands, especially during the famed
'Arupattu Moovar' festival in the month of Pisces in March - April when the icons of all the
Nayanmars are taken in a procession around the temple. The Teppam or float festival in
the large temple tank, and the biweekly Pradosham festival also draw huge crowds here.
The Punnai tree in the temple courtyard is considered to be one of oldest trees in Chennai
which shades a small shrine of Parvati worshipping Siva as a peacock, depicting the
legend that gave Mylapore its name
Saint Poet Sri Thiruvalluvar, the famous author of "Thiru Kural" was born in Mylapore.
Parthasarathy Temple
Located in the Triplicane (Tiruvallikkeni) area of Chennai city, Parthasarathy Temple is one
of the major South Indian temples and the well visited Divya Desams for Vaishnavaites.
Tiruvallikkeni is a well known landmark in the Chennai metropolis. This temple devoted to
Lord Krishna was built in the 8th Century by the Pallava Kings and has been renovated
since then. Legend says that Krishna after fighting the Great Kurukshetra War came to
rest here at the pond full of "alli" flowers, reason why the place is called Tiruvallikeni.
During the British rule it was shortened to Triplicane.
The face of the Utsava vigraha of Sri Parthasarathy in this temple is full of scars,
supposed to have been created by the arrows of the Great Bhishma when Krishna acted
as the charioteer for Arjuna in the Kurukshetra war.
There are shrines to Ranganathar and his consort Vedavalli, Sri Rama, as well to
Varadarajar and Narasimhar
There are three Sakthi Temples - Ichchaa Sakthi - Thiruvudai Amman, Gnaana Sakthi -
Vadivudai Amman, and Kriyaa Sakthi - Kodiyidai Amman
The temples for these three sakthis are located near Chennai. The form of the Devi in all
the three temples, are identical. It is considered auspicious to get darshan of all three
sakthis one after the other on the same day, especially on a full moon day and in particular
on a full moon day which falls on a Friday.
The Sakthi to be visited first, early in the morning is Thiruvudai Amman - Ichchaa Sakthi
(the Devi who will fulfill devotees wishes). The temple is located in Meloor near Minjur.
Special prayers are offered to this Devi by offering yellow saree and mangoes for
neivaedhiyam. The Lord is Thirumanangeesar.
The Sakthi to be visited second, in the morning is Vadivudai Amman - Gnaana Sakthi (the
Devi who will bless us with Gnaanam). Special prayers are conducted to this Devi by
offering red saree and jack fruit for neivaedhiyam. The Lord is Thyaagaraaja Swaami. The
temple is located in Tiruvotriyur. In this temple there are 27 lingams in a row, one for each
of the 27 stars.
The Sakthi to be visited third, in the evening is Kodiyidai Amman - Kriyaa Sakthi (the Devi
who assists us in all our actions). Special prayers are offered to this Devi of green saree
and bananas for neivaedhiyam. The Lord is Maasilaamaneeswarar. This temple is located
in Thirumullaivaayil, outskirts of Chennai.
One can plan the visits by car or city buses, easily available.
This is perhaps the oldest Anajaneya temple in the city. In this temple, only the profile of
the Lord can be seen, facing south as if planning a trip to Sri Lanka. This temple is
believed to have the swayambhu vigraha of Anjaneya with the right hand as the abhaya
hasta and the left hand placed on the thigh. This temple was built on a piece of land
granted by the Nawab of Arcot, by Salivahana Chettiars who migrated to Mylapore from
Mysore.
This ancient shrine is of great significance to Lord Shiva as Thyagaraja. The 18 Natanams
of Tyagaraja enacted during the festive occasions are of great interest. As per the legend
Valmiki Maharishi is said to have worshipped Shiva here, and there is a separate temple
for Valmiki closeby. Kamadhenu is said to have poured her milk over the Shivalingam and
offered worship. Shiva is also known as Marundeeswarar or Oshadeeswarar as He is
believed to cure ailments and diceases. The Vedas and the Devas are said to have
worshipped Shiva here. The unfinished gopuram in front of this temple has very recently
been renovated and consecrated.
Vadapalani Murugan Temple, Vadapalani
The temple of Sri Murugan in Vadapalani built in a large spacious ground is of very old
origin and fame. The temple tank is believed to have curative powers. The temple
celebrates Skanda Shasti, and Thai Poosam, attracting a very large number of pilgrims.
Marriages are regularly celebrated in this temple and it is recorded that more than 7,000
couples get married here each year.
There are very many sannidhis in the vast courtyards, like Varasiddhi Vinayaka,
Chokkanāthar, Mother Parvati, Kāli, Bhairava, Shanmuga with Valli and Devasenā
Mallikeswarar Temple
Built around 1000 years ago, this temple located in North Chennai, houses Mallikeswara
swamy, or the lord of Jasmine blooms. Legend has it that one of the Chola kings, while
hunting in this area, came upon a bunch of Jasmine shrubs. The king orders his soldiers
to clear up the weeds and create a beautiful garden around the jasmine shrubs. While this
was being done, they discover a Shivalingam buried under sand. The king immediately
ordered a temple to be built around the lingan, and thus is born Mallikeswaran temple.
Kalikambal Kamateswarar Temple, George Town
The Kalikambal temple located in Thambu Chetty Street in the heart of George Town in the
business district of Chennai is among the most visited temples.
This temple enshrines Kalikambal (Kamakshi) and Kamateswarar and a host of parivara
devatas. The history of the temple goes back to a few hundred years. The original idol was
said to have been worshipped at the place where the St. George Fort is presently located.
Hence she is referred to as Kottai Amman.
The great Maratha ruler Shivaji is said to have visited the Kalikambal shrine in Chennai,
during his tour of the southern region of the Indian subcontinent.
The Knitter - a chariot lined with metal cymbals is unique to this temple, and the knitter
procession in the month of Vaikasi attracts large crowds. The Navaratri and the Vasanta
Navaratri festivals are also of a unique nature in this temple.
In the ancient days, Purasu trees such as Palaasam, Murukku, and Kinjukam were found in
this place, and hence named Purasaipakkam.
The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Siva, called Gangadhar. Responding to the
prayers of Bhageeratha, the Lord held Ganga, the river Ganges in his Jadamudi and later
allowed her to flow to this earth. Hence the Lord was given the name Gangadhar.
Facing east Lord Gangadhar is found under the Purasai tree. Ambal Pankajakshi is seated
facing south blessing her devotees. As a sign of Lord Siva holding the Ganges, water in
the temple tank is found all through the year. It is believed that Bhageeratha and Lord
Anjaneya have worshipped at this temple and attained the grace of this Lord.
Velleshwarar Kamatchi amman Temple, Mylapore
According to the Puranas while Mahabali was offering “arghyam” to Lord Vishnu in His
Vamana Avataram, Sukracharya the Guru of Asuras took the form of a bee and blocked the
flow of water from the kamandalam. Noticing this and to clear the blockage. The Lord
pocked the neck of the kamandalam with a dharba grass. In this act Sukrachaya lost his
eyes. He is believed to have prayed to Lord Siva at this shrine, and got back one eye. Siva
in this shrine is called Valleswarar – having blessed Sukra also known Vellai (white metal).
This temple has a separate shrine for Sukra, Sarabheswarar and Saneeswarar.
The abhishekam to Lord Sarabheswarar during Rahu kalam on Sundays attracts a very
large crowd.
The 300-year-old Pathala Ponniamman temple has an idol which was dug out from a well.
The devotees were excited to retrieve another idol of Amman, made of pancha loha - an
alloy made out of five different metals - from the well. They constructed a temple for these
two idols, and since the deity was found in the pit dug for a well they called her “Pathala
Ponniamman”. This deity is considered to be the Guardian Angel of Purasawakkam and is
called Ellai Amman - or the deity guarding the limits of the area of Purasawakkam
Located in Mylapore, this temple, believed to be 1,300 years old, has a three tiered
Rajagopuram, and is very famous for "Snake Worship". It is believed that Mundagakanni is
one of the Saptha Kannigas. Some people believe that Renuka Devi Amman is called
Mundagakanni Amman.The Goddess present in this temple has got "Big Eyes" (Munda
Kannu). It is believed to be a place of worship to ward off diseases, and in particular eye
defects. The Garbh Griha has no permanent covering on the top; the idol is kept open to
the elements of nature because she is believed to cure all maladies caused by climatic
changes and the deity could be worshipped from the road
This temple has shrines for Siva and Vishnu in the same complex, and is a popular place
of worship by a large number of devotees. There are separate temples devoted to Lord
Ram, Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganesh.
Sri Santhana Srinivasa Perumal Temple is located at Mogappair. Mogappair was once
called Maga-p-peru (meaning "blessed with a son"). This name is derived from the belief
that the deity Santhana Srinivasa Perumal granted the blessing of parenthood to childless
couple. The pronunciation has no doubt changed to its present form. Due to this belief
childless couples throng to this holy place and offer their prayers, and it is said that their
wishes have come true after the visit of this shrine
Adipureeswarar Temple, Thiruvotriyur
This Shiva Stalam in Padi near Villivakkam is the 21st of the 32 Tevara Stalams in the
Tondai region of South India. Legends hold that Bharadwaja Muni (Valiyaan) and Hanuman
worshipped Shiva here, and hence the name Valithaayam.
An ancient temple, which is in the heart of the city, is dedicated to Shiva. Has sannadhis
for Kala Bhairavar, and Durga.
This temple located at Mylapore is dedicated to Keshava or Lord Vishnu who stands here
along with his celestial consort Goddess Lakshmi who carries the name of
MayuraValli Thayar "The Goddess of Wealth". This is one the beautiful temples
that boasts of the exquisitive architecture of the Hindu type of temples.
It is located just beside the Adi Kesava Perumal Temple. A vigraha of Sri Vedanta Desika,
who lived over 730 years ago in South India and wrote erudite commentaries on
Ramanuja's Sribhashyam, Gita Bhashyam, was brought from the adjacent Kesavaperumal
temple and installed here. Since elders felt that the Acharya should not preside alone, a
vigraha of Lakshmi Hayagriva modelled on the idol of the Mysore Parakala mutt was
brought and installed. There are shrines for Venkatachalapathi, Alarmelu manga Thayar.
Madhavaperumal Koil, Mylapore
This temple is dedicated to Lord Narayana and Amrutavalli Tayar. There is sannadhi for
Pezhazwar. The engravings in the temple depicts, Pezhazwar riding on a parrot, swan,
elephant and a horse. The Lord is in a sleeping posture on the lap of Andal, as in
Srivalliputtur, the birth place of Andal.
This temple dedicated to Muruga, is in busy business locality of North Chennai. According
to historical records the Kandaswamy temple dates back to the 11th century
A.D. . The inscriptions on the temple structure, provides some insights of the era
that was dominated by the Chola kings. The shrines contained in the temple are
those of Kadaswamy, Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma.This temple attracts a very large
crowd of devotees during festival days, in particular during the celebration of
Skandasashti and Panguni (annual festival).
Ramakrishna Temple v
Ramakrishna Temple in Chennai represents three hundred years of faith and devotion.
With the guidelines laid down by Swami Vivekananda for the temple of Sri Ramakrishna at
Belur Math as its basic, the temple features various architectural features familiar to the
region along with a universal outlook.
The floor of the prayer hall of the temple is at a height of 10 feet from the ground level.
Arupadai Veedu
A newly constructed Arupadai Veedu Murugar Temple is located at Besant Nagar, on the
shores of Bay of Bengal, in Chennai. Arupadai Veedu Murugar Temple offers the devotees
an opportunity to worship all the ‘arupadai veedus of Muruga' in a single shrine.
Thaipusam, Panguni Uthram, Aadi Karthikai and Skanda Shashti are the major festivals
celebrated here amid much pomp and religious fervor. The festivals are celebrated in
traditional style with Kavadi Attam and Paal Kudam.
Dr. Alagappan, who is the pioneer in building Hindu temples in USA, built this temple
complex
The Maharaja of Travancore built this temple complex which is the replica of the famous
Padmanabhaswami temple at Trivandrum. There are sannadhis for Ganesh, Garuda,
Anjaneya, Sudarsanar, Narasimhar and Durga. This is a contemporary temple built in 1962
on land donated by His Highness Chitra Thirunal. Anantha Padmanabha, name derived
from the words Padma (lotus) and nabha (navel), is depicted to be offering worship to Lord
Shiva in the form of Linga. The inner chamber houses the statue of Lord Vishnu in the
form of Anantha Padmanabha as placed in Trivandrum. There are three doors through
which one can see the divine head, mighty body and lotus feet of the Lord who is lying on
the divine snake Adisesha with its hood caring the Lords head. The right hand is resting
and worshipping the Siva Lingam and the feet on a lotus. Springing from the navel is a
lotus stem with flower on which Brahma is seated.
The temple's architecture is unique, with the deities installed in four levels. The shrine of
Mahaalakshmi & Mahaavishnu (the principal deities) is in level two. Here one can see the
imposing, bigger than life vigrahams facing the eastern horizon overlooking the sea.
Walking up the stairs to the third tier, the path leads to the shrine of Santaana Lakshmi
(bestower of offspring) facing south. Next we get the darshan of Vijayalakshmi (bestower
of success in all ventures, vijaya - success), on the western side on the 3rd tier.
Vidyaalakshmi (associated with learning & wisdom) sits facing the northern side & the
shrine of Gajalaskhmi (bestower of all round prosperity) is located facing the eastern side
on the 3rd tier. A flight of few steps above leads one to the 4th tier, where the
Dhanalakshmi (Goddess of wealth) shrine is located facing eastward. Her's is the only
shrine on the 4th level.
Exiting the main shrine - the principal deities, at the ground level on the southern flank of
the gopuram is the shrine for Aadhi Lakshmi. One the western flank is the shrine for
Dhaanya Lakshmi (Goddess of food grains). Dhairiya Lakshmi's (the Goddess of courage
& strength) shrine is situated on the northern flank.
There are shrines for Tumbikai Aazhwar (Ganesha), Guruvaayurappan, Chakrathaazhwar &
Narasimhar (on either side of the same idol), Aanjaneyar & Dhanvantri.
The recently built "Madhya Kailash" temple has many novelties. This is
the only temple in Tamil Nadu established according to the cult of
Ganapatyam, which is one of the five cults Adi Shankara talks of and is
very popular in Maharashtra.
The temple has become famous for its unique idol of "Adhyantha Prabhu", which is part
Ganapathy and part Anjaneya. The right side is Ganesh and the left Hanuman
The followers of Madhvacharya have built this temple for Sri Raghavendra as a
Brindavanam, for regular worship. The temple and "Mutt" complex are the main attractions
for any visitors,
This temple dedicated to Siva has sannadhis for Parvati, Ganesar, Subramanya, Sri Rama
and Hanuman. Regular discourses and Rudram classes are being conducted in this
temple. On Pradosham day large number of devotees throng to this temple. Maha
Sivarathri is another celebration which draws very big crowd throughout the day
performing religious rituals. All important festivals are celebrated in a majestic manner
following Vedic formalities and customs. The particular mark of these rituals in this temple
is that every abhishekam and aradhanas is performed amidst Vedic chanting by a large
number of people trained in Vedic chanting.
The devotees of Sai baba have constructed this temple for regular worship. This temple is
dedicated to Lord Shirdi Sai. Devotees throng the temple on Thursday, the special day for
Sai Baba. The temple also has shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna and Lord Ram, the two
incarnations of Vishnu.
A huge structure of 32 feet idol of Anjaneya molded out of a single rock forms the main
deity in this temple which attracts many devotees. Visvaroopa Baktha Anjaneyaar Temple
is located at Nanganallur. The Kumbabishekam was performed in 1995, by Kanchi
Paramacharyar. Other deities worshipped here are Lord Ganesha, Lord Krishna with his
consorts Bhama and Rukmini, Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Sita and also Lord Raghavendra.
Devotees are attracted to this temple on two special days Ekadasi and Amavasai in a
month on which days special Abhishekams are performed. It is believed that visiting this
temple assures the blessing for better health for devotees.
Constructed in the style of the temple at Sabarimala, this temple has the sacred “18 steps”
and is being visited by devotees when they are not able to visit Sabarimala, to offer their
prayers.
Gaudiya Mutt.
Maangaadu Kamakshi Amman Temple is one of the famous temples in Chennai. Situated
around 20 kms from the City it boasts of a rich heritage
Parvati Devi, mother of the universe once playfully closed the eyes of Lord Shiva while he
was in penance. The act was just a romantic gesture but resulted in the whole world
becoming dark. Lord Shiva's two eyes are believed to be the Sun and Moon and since
Parvati closed the eyes, the whole world plunged into darkness and life became stand still.
Lord Shiva got angry and cursed Parvati Devi that she would be born in earth as a human
being and needs to worship Shiva to get married to Him again.
Born in earth, Kamakshi (Kama + Akshi - one who controls "Kama" or Sexual desire) she
grew up and also started worshipping Lord Shiva. The place where she worshipped was
then a Mango Forest and hence the name "Maangaadu" meaning forest of mangoes. Her
worshipping became fierce since Lord Shiva didn’t turn up and she started penancing with
one leg facing up and hands over her head in the form of a flame. Lord Shiva got pleased
with her and asked her to come down to Kanchipuram where they got married. Adi
Sankara during his pilgrimage installed a meru before the deity to which poojas are being
conducted
Vedapureeswarar temple, Tiruverkadu
This Siva temple is one of the oldest temples, of Siva representing the four Vedas.
ISKCON Temple
Located in Injambakkam, on the outskirts of Chennai The ISKCON Temple at Chennai like
other ISKCON centres is the axis point from where the teachings of Lord Sri Krishna
Chaitanya are spread. The deities worshipped in the temple include those of Rukmini and
Krishna. The image of deity Satyabhama, is also housed in the temple premises. Other
deities worshipped in the temple include Jagannath, Baladeva, Subhadra and Gaura-Nitai.
ISKCON Chennai also promotes and protects traditional art and craft of South India.
Located approximately 8.5 kms from Adyar, designed like the one in Shirdhi. this temple is
peaceful, clean and breezy.
Jagannathan Temple:
Located on the way to Mahablipuram it is an exact replica of the Puri Jagannath Temple.
Those who have not been to Puri can take a look at this temple.
This temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, and every day the celestial marriage of
the presiding deity is being celebrated. Devotees worship for the early marriage of their
children. This is one of the 108 Divya Desams.
In this place lived Kalava rishi, along with his 360 daughters. The Lord heard the rishi's
prayers, came down from Heaven as a bachelor and married all of his daughters, one a
day, in turn he came to be known as "Nithya Kalyana Perumal". On the last day, he merged
them all into one, known as Akila Valli Naachiyaar and seated the Devi to his left, revealing
his divinity. The Lord's Consort has a shrine of her own here and is known as Komala Valli
Thaayaar.
The temple is on the East Coast Road, about 42 km from Chennai, about 16 km before
Mamallapuram.
Buddha Vihar
This is a popular centre for Buddhists and in particular to those from Srilanka on their
way to Saranath. Buddhists from abroad take part in the worship here.
Gurudhwar
The chief among Sikh Guru is Guru Govind Singh. His preaching stress on temperance
and silence as natural methods to see God. The Sikhs holy pilgrimage is the golden
temple situated at Amirstar in Punjab. A sizable number of Sikhs worship at this
Gurudwara located at Teynampet.
Churches
The Erstwhile Madras now renamed as Chennai, it is the cultural heartland as well as the
focal point for India’s 1950 year old Christian faith.,
Anderson Church
John Anderson arrived in Madras as one of the Scottish missionaries. He started the
John Anderson General Assembly School in 1835. He founded many educational
institutions. It is indeed ironical that this zestful educationalist is now remembered not
for what he actually stood for rather his name was given to the church situated in George
Town where once the Madras Christian College stood. The church is located in
Broadway.
Andrew’s Kirk Church
Described in the British days as the ‘Noblest edifice in Hindustan’, St. Andrew’s Kirk,
located in Egmore, is an almost two-century-old church. It is perhaps one of the ‘best
examples of Georgian architecture in Asia. The name itself is suggestive of the Scottish
connections the City had, during the British days. The St. Andrew's Church, Egmore is
popularly referred to as 'The Kirk'. It was consecrated in 1821 AD especially for the
Scottish Community in Chennai. The church was the result of efforts of Major Thomas
Fort de Havilland and Colonel James Caldwell. St Andrew's Kirk was built to serve the
members of the Scottish Church serving in the East India Company.
This church in Nungambakkam is the first Bishop House in Chennai. It was here, the first
Bishop performed his duties and later his office was changed to Mylapore. The Holy
Mary of this Holy Church is Mother Avella Theresammal.
Is another church, situated near Saidapet bridge, where in a cave hewn out of a small
mount the Apostle St. Thomas is believed to have lived and preached. It was from here
that he leaped out through a small opening in order to escape from his assailants. An
imprint found on the boulder on the other side of the cave is said to have been left by him.
There is also a well with a natural spring gushing out water. During the turn of this
century a circular church was constructed in this holy spot. A flight of 160 steps takes
you to the church on St. Thomas Mount. In the church at St. Thomas Mount, you can find
the painting of the Madonna that is said to have been done by St. Luke. The Bleeding
Cross is an interesting relic here. This cross has stains resembling bloodstains that seem
to reappear even after they are scrubbed off. The Cross is said to have 'bled' first during
Mass in 1558.
At the entrance of the tunnel, you can find a visible palm print that is believed to be of the
Apostle himself. Little Mount has an ancient church that was built by the Portuguese in
1551. The perennial spring that passes by the church is reputed to have curative powers.
A festival is held at Little Mount every year just after Easter.
Christ Church
By the busy Mount Road is situated the impressive building of the Christ Church. Rev.
Henry Taylor, Chaplain in the Service of East India Company, realizing the sad plight of
the poor people in and around the Mount Road area, opened a large room for public
worship in July 1842, which of course, marked the humble beginning of the Christ
Church.
This Cathedral which is 188 years old is remarkable for its splendid architectural beauty.
Built in 1815 with a 45m spire and elegant Ionic columns of brick and lime, it is of special
historic interest for the several fine memorial tablets remembering such outstanding men
as Bishop Caldwell - the eminent Philologist, Bishop Heber, ardent missionary, Dr.
Carrie, first Anglican bishop of Chennai, Dr. Anderson, the famous doctor who
introduced silk manufacture in Chennai and William Parry and John Binny, merchant
entrepreneurs whose names are still remembered in the city’s oldest business
establishments. Unusual too, is the adjacent graveyard with its unique guard rail made
up of musket barrels, bayonets and spikes taken at the capture of Sri Rangapatnam in
Karnataka during1799.
St.Thomas Mount is a small hillock situated south of Chennai, where St. Thomas - the
Apostle of Jesus, preached Christianity. It is interesting to note that the bleeding cross
said to be carved in stone by St. Thomas was found here and installed at the altar of the
Church of ’Our Lady of expectation’. The mysterious blood stains on the bleeding cross
remained for years even after deliberate scrubbing and the wear and tear of centuries.
The Church also holds a fascinating painting of Holy Mother and Infant Jesus said to
have been painted by the apostle St.Thomas himself during the 1st century AD.
Velankanni Church
This church located in Besant Nagar, is dedicated to our lady of Health, the Madonna of
Velankanni. Though much smaller than the original church at Velankanni, this church at
Elliot’s Beach still attracts swarms of pilgrims who have implicit faith in the miraculous
healing of the Madonna.
Parsi Temple
There is a Parsi Temple at George Town, near Royapuram, serving a handful of Parsis in
the City.
Vedantangal is located 85km southwest of Chennai and is one of the best bird breeding
sanctuaries in India. There are several kinds of egrets, herons, pelicans, black
cormorants, storks, spoonbills, grebes and many other types of birds. The best period is
November to January. Vedanthangal has the reputation of being one of the oldest water
bird sanctuaries in India. Records reveal that this sanctuary has been in existence for
more than 200 years. Vedanthangal bird sanctuary is located at about 86 km from
Chennai. The sanctuary spans across 72 acres of marshy land. The Barringtonia Acacia
nilotica trees along with dry evergreen scrub and thorn forests are part of the flora of the
sanctuary.
Pulicat
Pulicat Island is located 60 kilometers north of Chennai and is surrounded by ocean and
salt-water rivers. Pulicut has a population of approximately 30,000, which is comprised
predominantly of fishermen who belong to the traditional marine fishing caste called
Pattanavan.
Mahabalipuram.
Mahabalipuram, also called Mamallapuram, is 60 kilometers south of Chennai
Mahabalipuram was the capital of the Pallava Kings around the seventh and eighth
centuries. The Pallavas were master sculptors. This town boasts of some of the finest rock
cut caves and sculptures in the world. The Shore temples of Mahabalipuram are an
architectural wonder.
Anneture
AIR INDIA
19, Rukmani Lakshmibathy Road,
Egmore
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28554477, 28554488 Fax : 28555055
AIR MAURITIUS
6, Aarti Chambers,
189, Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 006 Tel:28515641/42 Fax:28515643
AIR SEYCHELLES
43/44, Montieth Road,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28592564 Fax : 28570703
ALITALIA
2-D, Century Plaza,
560-562, Anna Salai
Chennai - 600 018 Tel : 24349822, 24349254 Fax : 24328781
AMERICAN AIRLINES
43/44, Montieth Road,
Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28592564, 28592915 Fax : 28540703
AIR FRANCE
43/44, Montieth Road
Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28554916, 285524844 Fax : 28553428
AUSTRIAN AIRLINES
43/44, Montieth Road, Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28592915, 28592564 Fax : 28570703
BIMAN BANGLADESH
43/44, Montieth Road,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28592564, 28592915 Fax : 28570703
BRITISH AIRWAYS
Sigma Wing,
177, Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 002 Tel : 28604680, 22560952
Fax : 28551601, 28603803
BRITISH MIDLAND
2/96, Montiteth Road,
Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28554455 Fax : 52148486
CONTINENTAL AIRLINES
672, Anna Salai,
Nandanam,
Chennai - 600 035 Tel : 24330211, 24330444 Fax : 24330170
DELTA AIRLINES
144/145, Kodambakkam High Road,
Chennai - 600 034 Tel : 28262315, Fax : 28269151
EGYPT AIR
758, Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 002 Tel : 28523913 Fax : 28524507
EMIRATES
RIAZ GARDEN,
12, K. H. Road,
Chennai - 600 034 Tel : 28223700 Fax : 28233622, 28240103
ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES
23, Kasi Arcade
T. Nagar, Chennai - 600 017 Tel : 28151395, 28150284 Fax : 24347966
EVA AIR
72, Marshalls Road,
Egmore
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28511489, 28511490 Fax : 28554520
FINN AIR
733, Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 002 Tel : 28523459 Fax : 28523427
GULF AIR
52, Montieth Road, Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28554417 Fax : 28554028
INDIAN
General Enquiry Reservations
Arrival & Departure
19, Rukmani Lakshmibathy Road,
Egmore
Chennai - 600 008 1400 / 1401 / 1402
IRAQI AIRWAYS
66, Pantheon Road, Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28265616, 28261740 Fax : 28224502
JAPAN AIRLINES
Hotel Ambasador Pallava,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28592333, 28592335 Fax : 28592334
JET AIRWAYS
43/44, Montieth Road, Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28414141, 28511103 Fax : 28555108
KENYA AIRWAYS
733, Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 006 Tel : 28524532 Fax : 28523427
KOREAN AIR
733, Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 006 Tel : 28522921, 28523427 Fax : 28523427
KUWAIT AIRWAYS
43/44, Montieth Road, Egmore,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28553797, 28553978 Fax : 28553806
MALAYSIA AIRLINES
Arihant Nico Park,
90, Dr. R.K.Salai,
Chennai - 600 004 Tel : 52199999 Fax : 52199299
OMAN AIR
‘Oxford’ 20-22, College Road,
Nungambakkam,
Chennai - Chennai - 600 006 Tel : 28211212 (6 lines) Fax : 28222020
QANTAS AIRWAYS
Eldorado Buld.112,
Nungambakkam High Road,
Chennai - 600 034 Tel : 28278680, 28278649 Fax : 28240608
ROYAL BRUNEI
672, Anna Salai,
Nandanam,
Chennai - 600 035 Tel : 24330211, 24330444 Fax : 24330170
ROYAL JORDANIAN
43/44, Montieth Road,
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28592564, 28592915 Fax : 28570703
SAHARA AIRLINES
Hotel Park Sheraton, 132, T.T.K. Road,
Chennai - 600 018 Tel : 52110202 Fax : 52110303
SAS
144/145, Nungambakkam High Road,
Chennai - 34. Tel : 28226151, Fax : 28269151
SWISS AIR
19, Hamid Building,
Anna Salai,
Chennai - 600 006 Tel : 28524783, 28522541 Fax : 28523453
THAI AIRWAYS
672, Anna Salai
Nandanam
Chennai - 600 035 Tel : 24330211, 24330255 Fax : 24330170
TURKMENISTAN AIRLINES
672, Anna Salai, Nandanam
Chennai - 600 035 Tel : 24322286, 24330542 Fax : 24330560
UNITED AIRLINES
144, Kodambakkam High Road,
Chennai - 600 034 Tel : 28226290/914 Fax : 28269151
US AIRWAYS
Sri Kalyan Squar,
83,Pantheon Road
Chennai - 600 008 Tel : 28586868, 28588953 Fax : 52146952
VIRGIN ATLANTIC
144/145, Malavika Centre
K.Hg Road,
Chennai - 600 034 Tel : 28262315 Fax : 28269151
Indian Railways
This is the biggest bus terminus in Asia. It has 30 arrival and 150 departure terminals, 3
restaurants, 31 shops, 15 drinking water out-lets and 76 toilets. The main lounge can seat
536 people. Express / Deluxe / Super Deluxe buses to many Cities and Towns in Tamilnadu
and neighboring states operate from here.
Government Hospitals
Govt. General Hospital 25363131/25363143
Royapettah Hospital 28483051/28283056
Govt. Optholmic Hospitals 28555281/28554338
Govt. Kasthurbai Gandhi Hospital for Women and Children 28545001
Arignar Anna Govt. Hospital 26214844/26281563
Govt. Hospital for Thoracic Medicine 22368450/22368427
Durgabai Deshmukh Gen. Hospital and Research Centre 24938311
Govt. RSRM Hospital 25229362
Govt. Thiruvateeswarar TB Hospital 26461336/26461337
Govt. Hospital for Women and Children 28251982
Govt. Peripheral Hospital (Anna Nagar) 26262136
Govt. Peripheral Hospital (Tondairpet) 25953157
Govt. Peripheral Hospital ( K. K. Nagar) 24892530
Speciality Hospitals
CSI Kalyani Multi Speciality Hospital 28473306/28470642
Dignity Foundation Senior Clients Life Enrichment Services
26473165
Hospital
Eye Bank - 24 hrs - Sankara Nethralaya 1919
Lions Eye Bank Trust (24 hrs) 28553840
Rotary Medical Centre (24 hrs) 26258616
Voluntary Health Services 22541972/22542971
Sankara Nethralaya 28271616
Sneha Sucide Helpline 28115050
Rotary Central TTK-VHS Blook Bank 22542829/22541692
Lions Blood Bank 28415959/28414949
Iswari Prasad Dattatreya Orthopaedic Centre 24938311
Jeevan Blood Bank & Research Centre 28220494/28231911
24 Hours Pharmacy
Austria
"Kothari Building", 115, Uthamar Gandhi Road,
Nungambakkam, Chennai - 600 034
Tel: 91-44-28334556, 91-44-2828334515
Fax: 91-44-28334560
Belgium
Spic House
88, Anna Salai, Gunidy
Chennai - 600 032
Tel:91-44-22350877, 91-44-22352336
Fax: 91-44-22350308
Chile
7, Adyar Club Gate Road,
Chennai - 600 028
Tel: 91-44-24340610
Fax: 91-44-24335216
Czech
64, Thirumalaipillai Road,
T.Nagar, Chennai - 600 017
Tel: 91-44-28158886/87/88
Fax: 91-44-28156666
Denmark
9, Cathedral Road
Chennai - 600 086
Tel: 91-44-28118140/41
Fax: 91-44-28112185
Finland
742 (New No: 202), Anna Salai
Chennai - 600 002
Tel: 91-44-28524141, 91-44-28523622
Fax: 91-44-28521253
France
2, Rue De La Marine,
Pondicherry - 605001
Tel: 91-413-2334174/4058
Fax: 91-413-2335594
Germany
49, Ethiraj Salai, Mico Building
Chennai - 600105
Tel: 91-44-28210810, 91-44-28210824
Fax: 91-44-28273542
Greece
H3 Alsa Manor
72, Harrington Road
Chennai 600 031
Tel: 91-44-28269194
Hungary
Taim House
72, Rajaji Salai
Chennai - 600 001
Tel: 91-44-25231265
Fax: 91-44-25225205
Iceland
Bhavani Mansion, 2nd Floor 4th Lane
3, Nungambakkam High Road
Chennai - 600 034
Tel: 91-44-28331946/28333631
Fax: 91-44-28330314
Indonesia
Italy
19, Rajaji Salai
Chennai - 600 001
Tel: 91-44-24337224
Fax: 91-44-25341136
Japan
12/1Cenetoph Road
Teynampet
Chennai - 600 018
Tel: 91-44-91-44-24323860/61
Fax: 91-44-24323859
Korea
'Chaitanya'
12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road
Chennai 600 006
Telefax: 91-44-28331224
Malawi
83 (Old No:41), Armenian Street
Chennai - 600 001
Tel: 91-44-25265243,91-44-25219524
Fax: 91-44-25279009
Malaysia
252/A, T.T.K. Road
Alwarpet
Chennai - 600 018
Tel: 91-44-24982306
Fax: 91-44-24982405
Mauritius
94/95, Thiru-vi-ka Industrial Estate,
Chennai - 600 032.
Tel: 91-44-22346693/7051
Fax: 91-44-22348181
Netherlands
Catholic Centre
64, Armenian Street
Chennai - 600 001
Tel: 91-44-22510214
Newzealand
"Maithri"
32, Cathedral Road
Chennai - 600 086
Tel: 91-44-28112472
Fax: 91-44-28112449
Norway
44/45, Rajaji Salai
Chennai - 600 001
Tel: 91-44-25232981/82/83
Fax: 91-44-25233235
Philipines
Spic House, Annex Building, 4th Floor
88, Anna Salai, Guindy
Chennai - 600 032
Tel: 91-44-22354063
Fax: 91-44-22352062
Russian Federation
33, Santhome High Road
Mylapore, Chennai - Chennai - 600 004
Tel: 91-44-24982320/30
Fax: 91-44-24982336
Singapore
17-A, North Boag Road,
T.Nagar, Chennai - 600 017
Tel: 91-44-28158207/08
Fax: 91-44-28158209
Spain
'Lawdale'
6/8, Nimmo Road, Santhome,
Chennai - 600 004
Tel: 91-44-24942008
SriLanka
196, T.T.K Road,
Alwarpet, Chennai - 600 086
Tel: 91-44-24987896, 91-44-24987612
Fax: 91-44-24987894
Sweden
6, Cathedral Road
Chennai - 600 086
Tel: 91-44-28112232
Fax: 91-44-28110294
Switzerland
224, T.T.K Road,
Alwarpet, Chennai - 600 018
Tel: 91-44-2435886, 91-44-24332701
Fax: 91-44-24342363
Turkemenistan
3, Magesh Street,
T.Nagar, Chennai - 600 017
Tel: 91-44-24343777 / 3627
Fax: 91-44-24343627
Turkey
202, Lingi Chetty Street,
Chennai - 600 001
Tel: 91-44-2510214
United Kingdom
20, Anderson Road
Chennai 600 006
Tel: 91-44-28257422, 91-44-52142151, Fax: 91-44-52192321
HOTELS
There are lots of hotels in and around Chennai city to facilitate the accommodations for
visitors of the Chennai City. There is a variety of choice like Five Star Hotels, Four Star
Hotels, Three Star Hotels, Two Star Hotels, One Star Hotels, and Budget Hotels
Tourist Home, 45, Gandhi Irwin Road, Egmore, Chennai - 600 008.
Jewellers in Chennai
Mehta Jewellery
64, Thirumalai Pillai Road, Chennai, 600017 - 044 28158886
G R Thangamaligai Ltd
136, Usman Road, Opp Chennai Silks, T Nagar, Chennai, Chennai - 044 24345065
Prince Jewellery
13,Nageswara Rao Road, Panagal Park, Chennai, 600017 - 044 24363137
Murthy Jewellers
8/1, New No 36, Mathala Narayanan St, Mylapore, Chennai - 044 24957240
Palsani Jewels
87, Dr R K Rd, Mylapore, Chennai - 044 28110585
Jnr Jewellery
10,North Mada Street, Mylapore, Chennai, 600004 - 044 24951834
Dhanalaxmi Jewellers
59/2, Opp Pothy'S Textile, Usman Rd, T Nagar, Chennai - 044 24345242
KFJ
17,Shanthi Vihar Complex,140,Royapettah High Road, Mylapore, Chennai, 600004
044 24984617
S R K Jewellers
27,North Mada Street, Mylapore, Chennai, 600004 - 044 24640586
Sagunthala Jewellers
2, Opp Kabaleswar Temple, C P Koil St, Mylapore, Chennai - 044 24611670
Mehta Gems Co
Old No 329,New No 373, Mint Street, Chennai, 600003 - 044 25355205
P V Thanga Maligai
32 2,East Coast Road, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, 600041 - 044 24483412
Lalitha Jewellery
Shopping Malls
Spencer Plaza on Mount Road
Alsa Mall,
Cisons Complex,
Fountain Plaza
Prince Plaza in Egmore.
Globus,
Westside,
Lifestyle,
Landmark
Handicrafts
Book Stores
M/sHiggin Bothams
Anna Salai, Chennai.
Phone : +91-44-28522420
Landmark
Spencer Plaza, Anna Salai, Chennai.
Phone : +91-44-28495767
Odyssey
6, First Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai.
Phone : +91-44-24420393
The Alliance Co.
P.O. Box 617, 244, Ramakrishna Mutt Road, Mylapore, Chennai-600 004, Tamilnadu, India.
Tel: 91-44-494 1314
Vanathi Pathippakam ,
Publishers and Booksellers
13, Deenadayalu Street, Chennai-600 017, Tamil Nadu, India
Tel: 044-434 2810
Sri Ramakrishna Mutt
16, Ramakrishna Mutt Road, Mylapore, Chennai-600 004, Tamilnadu.
Tel: 044-494 1231/1589; Fax: 493 4589
The Little Flower Co (LIFCO)
43, Ranganathan St, POBox 1028, T. Nagar, Chennai-600 017, Tamilnadu.
Tel: 044-434 1538
Giri Trading Agency (Religious books)
Kapaleeswarar Sannadhi Street, Mylapore, Chennai – 600004 - 24940376
Priest sevices:
If one can perform a pooja by himself, nothing like it. It gives the best results. However not
many know how to perform a ritualistic pooja, or the patience to do repeated mantra japa
with concentration. Those who don't know take the help of the priests to do it for
them. Chennai has a few learned scholars who are highly qualified in conducting religious
ceremonies strictly adhering to the agama sastras.
Kalarasana
No. B-15, Mookambigai Apartments, 20, Srinivasa Avenue Road, R.A.Puram,
Chennai-28.
Phone : 24939539
Nada Inbam
No. 85/2, Luz Avenue, Chennai-4.
Phone : 24992672
Bharath Kalachar
No. 17, Tirumalai Pillai Road, T.Nagar, Chennai-17.
Phone : 28223045, 28267892
Music Academy
No. 168, T.T.K.Road, Chennai-14.
Phone 28112231, 28115162
Hamsadhwani
No. 2, 8th Lane, Indiranagar, Adyar, Chennai-20.
Phone : 24915555
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