Chennai (Madras)

Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, stands proudly on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal and holds a significant historical legacy as the former Madras Presidency. Tamil is the official language here, complemented by widespread English usage. The city's economy thrives on diverse sectors including automobile manufacturing, software services, healthcare, and finance. Tourist attractions in Chennai include the iconic Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, historic Fort St. George, and the Government Museum boasting a rich collection of artifacts. The San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, and Valluvar Kottam, a monument to the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, add to the city's cultural richness. Shopping hotspots range from the sari and gold jewelry stores of T. Nagar to the trendy fashion at Pondy Bazaar and the expansive shopping malls like Express Avenue and Phoenix Market City. Chennai's nightlife is vibrant with pubs like 10 Downing Street offering themed nights, upscale nightclubs like Pasha and The Flying Elephant, and cozy spots such as Willows Lounge Bar and The Moon and Sixpence, ensuring there's something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.