New Secretariat in Chennai will worsen traffic, raise flood risk: PMK chief Anbumani
The proposed New Secretariat in Chennai is predicted to worsen traffic congestion and increase flood risk in the city.
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Tamil Nadu · India
Chennai
A warm coastal metropolis of Dravidian temples, colonial forts and the world's second-longest beach — the heart of Tamil film and filter coffee.
Chennai (Madras) is proud of Kanjeevaram silk, Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam, and a South Indian food culture from idli to Chettinad.
Plan your trip
Chennai Tour Itineraries
Timed, walkable day plans — plus the best season to go.
Where to shoot
Chennai Photo Spots
Medium crowdEntry ₹15 (Indian) / ₹200 (foreign)
Fort St. George
- Best timeMorning, when the soft light falls on the white colonial buildings and the grounds are quiet.
- ColorsWhiteNavyMustard
Medium crowdEntry ₹15 (Indian) / ₹250 (foreign)
Government Museum, Egmore
- Best timeLate morning for even light on the red façade; late afternoon for warmer colour on the domes.
- ColorsRustCreamTeal
High crowdEntry Free
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
- Best timeEarly morning, when the sun lights the painted gopuram and the streets are still quiet; dusk for the lit tank.
- ColorsTraditional brightsMustardMaroon
High crowdEntry Free
Marina Beach
- Best timeSunrise, when the sun comes up over the Bay of Bengal and fishermen are on the sand; dusk for a lively, softer scene.
- ColorsWhiteCoralSky blue
Entry Free
San Thome Basilica
- Best timeMorning, when the soft light falls on the white façade and the spire stands out against the blue sky.
- ColorsWhitePastelNavy
For the feed
Trending Wear in Chennai
Modern, Instagram-friendly looks
Rooted in the city
Chennai Traditional Wear
Local, cultural, handcrafted outfits
Taste the city
Food to Eat in Chennai
Trusted tables
Where to Eat in Chennai
About Chennai
Chennai, known as Madras until 1996, is the capital of Tamil Nadu and one of India's largest cities. It grew around Fort St. George, the East India Company fort built in the 1640s, and much of the city's history sits along its long seafront: the fort at the northern end, Marina Beach in the middle and San Thome Basilica to the south. Just inland is Mylapore, one of the oldest parts of the city, where the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, its tank and the lanes of flower and brass sellers still set the pace of the day.
Chennai is a working city rather than a resort, so it rewards an early start. Walk Marina Beach at sunrise, spend the morning in Mylapore and the Government Museum at Egmore, and come back to the sea for the evening breeze. The city takes its food seriously, from idli, dosa and ven pongal at breakfast to a fiery Chettinad chicken for dinner, and a strong filter coffee is never far away. In December and January, the Margazhi music season fills the city's halls with Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam.
Questions
Chennai — FAQ
What is Chennai famous for?
Chennai is famous for Marina Beach, the Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, Fort St. George and San Thome Basilica. It is also known for Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam, Kanjeevaram silk, Tamil cinema, and South Indian breakfasts of idli, dosa and filter coffee.
How many days are enough for Chennai?
2–3 days is enough for Marina Beach, Mylapore, Fort St. George, San Thome Basilica and the Government Museum. Add a day if you want a trip out to Mahabalipuram or Kanchipuram.
What is the best time to visit Chennai?
January to March is the most comfortable time, with dry, warm days after the rains. October to December brings the northeast monsoon and the risk of cyclones, and April to June is very hot. See the best time to visit Chennai for a month-by-month guide.
How do I reach Chennai?
Chennai International Airport has direct flights from across India and from abroad, and the metro links it to the city centre. Chennai Central and Egmore are the main railway stations, with trains from most major Indian cities. Inside the city, the metro, suburban trains, buses and app-based autos and cabs are the easiest ways to get around.
Is Chennai hot all year?
Mostly, yes. Even in January the days are warm, and from April to June temperatures often pass 38°C with high humidity. Plan outdoor sightseeing for early morning and late afternoon, carry water and wear light cotton clothes.