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Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the gateway to the South and the nearest port to South East Asia. Chennai, the capital of Tamilnadu is renowned as a major commercial capital. Today, it is India`s major centre for automotive industries, information technology, and medicine. It is also one of the few Indian cities to have good support infrastructure and a well-educated work force.

Built by the British in 1653, it currently houses the State Legislature and Secretariat. Many men, who were later to found the British Empire, worked within its walls. There is also a museum near the fort.

Fort Museum

This museum contains many relics pertaining to the tenure of the East India Company and British India.

This is one of the oldest temples in Chennai. This ancient temple was built in the 8th century AD and renovated in the 16th century AD.

This 13-km long beach is dotted with the landmarks of the British Empire. Almost all the majestic buildings built by the English are lined along its shores. Every evening, crowds congregate on these shores to enjoy the sunset.

This Gothic cathedral, built by the Portuguese when they arrived in these parts, is very close to the Brahmin enclave of Mylapore.

Little Mount Shrine

It is the site where St Thomas lived and preached.

St Thomas Mount

Situated near the Airport, the small hillock is believed to be the place where the apostle Thomas was killed by his assassins.

St. Mary`s Church

This is the oldest Anglican church in Asia and is within the ramparts of Fort St George. It was built in AD 1659.

The Snake Park and Children`s Park

Abutting the Guindy National Park, the Snake Park and Children`s Park house some of the rare reptiles of the sub-continent.

The Theosophical Society

Founded by Dr Annie Besant, the Society continues to conduct discourses. It is open from 8 am to 11 am and 2 pm to 5 pm from Monday to Friday and from 8 am to 11 am on Saturdays.

National Art Gallery and Government Museum

The museums situated in the heart of the city at Egmore were founded in 1857. It is open on all days except on Fridays, from 8 am to 5 pm.

Aquarium

The aquarium at the Marina Beach is open from 2 pm to 8 pm on week days, and between 10 am to 12.00 noon and 2 pm to 6.30 pm on Sundays.

Elliots Beach

This beach is located near Besant Nagar and attracts a lot of crowd.

Valluvar Kottam

Erected in memory of the poet saint Thiruvalluvar, the shrine at Nungambakkam is modelled on the temple car of Thiruvarur. The place also has a large auditorium.

Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur)

Situated about 30 km from the city, the zoological park is spread over an area of 510 hectares. It is open from 08.00 to 15.00 hours on all days except Tuesday.

Amusement Parks Around Madras

Dash "N" Splash, Kishkintha, Little Folks, MGM`s Dizee World, and VGP Golden Beach.

Chennai is famous for its silk sarees - brought in from the neighbouring Kancheepuram. Over the years, it has become a major player in the bullion market. Gold is still a fast moving item here. Chennai is a major trade centre in India and has numerous shopping complexes that rival the ones existing aboard. Some of the important business zones are Nungambakkam High Road, T Nagar, Parry`s Corner, Mount Road, and Kilpauk.