Sri Parathasarthy
temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Built by the Pallavas
in the 8th century, the temple was renovated in the 16th century
by the Vijaynagar kings. Situated in Triplicane, another beach
in Chennai and one of the major harbours during Pallava time,
it is famed for the beauty of its gopuram (arched gateway)
and its architecture. The entire locality is fashioned around
the temple.
San Thome Cathedral
The cathedral is built near Marina Beach is another tourist
attraction. It was originally built in neo-Gothic style in
the 13th century in honor of the apostle St.Thomas and was
rebuilt in1896. According to legends, St. Thomas arrived in
India from Palestine in AD 52 and died after 26 year. The
church was built after a millennium, probably by the Persian
Christians, and his remains were moved inside. The church
was refurbished in 1606 and made into a cathedral. Again,
in 1806, it was rebuilt as a basilica. There is a museum in
its premises with a 16th-century map of South Asia.
Kapaleeshwar Temple
This temple is an example of a typical Dravidian style of
architecture. It is located near the San Thome Cathedral.
The oldest temple of Chennai, is dedicated to Lord Shiva However,
non-Hindus are not allowed to enter into the main worshiping
place of the temple. The temple is the nucleus of the local
tank market and residential quarters around it. The main entrance
facing east is painted in red, blue and yellow with Puranic
legends sculpted on the sanctum sanctorum.
The Government Museum
The museum houses the finest collection of Chola art in the
country. It also has a fascinating collection from the Chalukya,
Hoysala and Vijaynagar periods in South India.
National Art Gallery
Built in 1906, the gallery is situated in a splendid Indo-Saracenic
edifice. The building was initially known as Victoria Memorial
Hall and was designed by Henry Irwin. There is an interesting
collection of old paintings and sculptures including Tanjore
paintings on glass; Rajput and Mughal miniature paintings;
Deccan paintings from 17th century; and handcrafts, metalware,
and ivory carvings from 11th and 12th century.
Guindy National park and
The Snake Park
Situated close to each other near the Guindy station, the
parks are an animal lovers' delight, being home to rare species
of snakes and reptiles.
Birla Planterium
This unique planetarium is the ideal place to gaze at the
stars.
Elliot Beach
Another famous beach located in the city, is an ideal place
for relaxation and contemplation.
National Art and Government
Museum
The museum houses some of the rare art pieces of the country.
Anna Zoological Park
This park, an animal lovers' delight, aptly showcases the
wildlife of India. |