Chennai, earlier known as Madras, is the capital city of Tamil Nadu. It is also the gateway to other popular destinations of South India. It is also considered among the four metropolitan cities of India. Once a small village of fishermen, Chennai attained a significant place during the British Rule. Chennai has retained its traditional Tamil heritage even today and has effectively blended it to create a unique synthesis of cultures. Chennai has many destinations of tourist interest, such as ancient temples and museums, churches and forts.

Area: 174 sq km

Population: 6.4 million (approx.)

Places to see:

• Marina Beach: stretched over an area of 13 km, this is the second longest beach in Asia. It looks like a festive ground on weekend evenings. It is a beach, where you can be one with nature and enjoy the beauty of the sunset.
• Anna Square: Dr. C.N. Annadurai, the late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu was a highly noble person and very popular among the people of Tamil Nadu. Thousands of people visit at his 'Samadhi' (tomb) everyday to pay their respect.
• Fort St. George: Fort St. George is one of the most significant buildings of the British rule. There are many important buildings inside the fort including a church and a museum.
• Temples: Shri Parthasarathy Temple dedicated to lord Krishna, is one of the oldest surviving temples in Chennai, built in the 8th century by the Pallava Rulers. Kapaleeshwarar Temple, constructed in the Dravidian style, is dedicated to lord Shiva. It displays the architectural elements like gopurams, mandapams and a tank. Ashtalakshmi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi is located on Elliots Beach. Mangadu Temple is famous for the idol of the Goddess Parvati performing one of her many penances - standing on the leg over the five fires with a visage showing perfect serenity. The Jain Temple holds beautiful sculptures of Lord Mahavira, tirinthkaras and Lord Shantinath to whom the temple is dedicated.

• By Air: Chennai has domestic as well as international airports. The Kamaraj Domestic Airport and the Anna International Airport are located at Tirusulam, at a distance of 20 km from the city.
• By Rail: Chennai is also well connected to all the major cities in India through a wide network of railways. The main railheads are Madras Central and Egmore. The rail service connects to all the main cities of the neighboring state and the country.
• By Road: The excellent road network of Chennai makes it easily accessible from other important cities of Tamil Nadu and the neighboring states. All types of land transport can be hired for a comfortable journey in Chennai and throughout the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.