After a 30-hour journey we were very excited to finally arrive in Chennai. Since the city is located in southeast India on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, we opted to stay at a seaside resort to enjoy the views. On our first morning we had the good fortune of waking up to an amazing sunrise on the Indian Ocean.
It was monsoon season and the resort was deserted. Fortunately, there was a pool to cool off in the heat of the day as it was very hot and humid at that time of the year. The rough surf during our stay prevented us from swimming in the ocean but just walking on the beach and sticking our toes in the warm water was wonderful. But if you like to surf, it’s perfect, and there was a surfing school nearby.
There’s a lot more to India than the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is also an interesting place to visit. It’s the capital of Tamil Nadu, a state known for its temples, culture, and delicious South Indian delicacies.
Chennai’s Marina Beach is without contest the widest beach we have ever seen. It’s so wide that it’s mind-boggling to imagine that during the 2004 tsunami the water reached the road. The disaster destroyed many villages along the coast and thousands lost their lives on that tragic day. Many years later, the villages have been once again rebuilt along the coastline.
Must-see attractions around Chennai
Krishna’s Butter Ball
We spent the day exploring the Chennai area where we visited temples and saw Krishna’s Butter Ball, a unique natural site. It’s a huge boulder that seems ready to roll down the hill at a moment’s notice, but it hasn’t moved in over 1300 years. The dogs sleeping in the shade below it didn’t seem worried one bit!
Tamil Nadu Temples
Nearby, we visited the Ganesh Ratha Temple which was carved in pink granite. It’s dedicated to Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu God of Success.
Other interesting temples in the Tamil Nadu district that we visited are the ancient Varaha Cave Temple and the Shore Temple.
The Varaha Cave Temple is dedicated to Vishnu, one of the most important Hindu deities, also known as the Preserver and Protector of the Universe.
The Shore Temple (Mahabalipuram) is set in a prime location overlooking the Bay of Bengal. The temple complex dates back to the 8th century and is made of granite blocks.
Nearby, we could see a small village with a beach and lots of colorful fishing boats.
Cultural Attractions
We also visited a replica of a Tamil Nadu Village where local artisans demonstrated their skills and sold their handicrafts. This is also where we noticed intricate white designs in front of doorways and altars. Our guide explained that everyday these patterns are made with flour in order to feed the ants and other small creatures because all beings are considered important.
The Government Museum of Chennai has a good collection of bronze sculptures representing deities. Having a guide is useful to understand what you’re looking at.
Hindu Temple
Kapaleeshwarar Temple in the heart of Chennai. The complex was interesting but unfortunately, I wasn’t allowed inside the temple because I’m not Indian (my guide should have known that fact!) so I cannot recommend this visit.
Be sure to ask if you’re allowed inside before going to a Hindu temple. This was something new to me. I’ve visited many temples, mosques and churches around the world where all were welcome as long as they respected the local culture. I had removed my shoes and was dressed appropriately. Entry was forbidden because I was a foreigner.
Conclusion
After a wonderful time in Chennai, it was time for us to go explore another part of India. Next, we were off to Jaipur, one of the main cities of India’s Golden Triangle. The easiest way to get there is to take an internal flight from Chennai to Jaipur.
Domestic flights in India are inexpensive and definitely worth the extra expense for the added convenience. We got flights for less than $50! Also, getting around by bus, car or train would take much longer and when your time is limited, and time is a luxury you can’t afford.
Another highlight of our visit to Chennai was that we got to see one of my husband’s longtime friends and his family.
Make sure to read my other posts about India: