Chennai is listed as the third most visited metropolitan city of India, after Mumbai and Delhi. It offers a platter full of interesting places for people having diverse interests. Strategically located on the Coromandel Coast, this city is famous for its captivating tourist spots. Some of the famous tourist places in Chennai are the MGR Film City, Vivekananda House (Ice House), Fort St. George and the temples in Mahabalipuram dating back to the 7th century. Thirumala Thirupathi Devasthanam Temple, National Art Gallery (Victoria Memorial Hall), Santhome Cathedral Basilica and Dash 'N' Splash are the other worth visiting destinations located in the city.
Shopping in Chennai is a delight for shopaholics and for those interested in collecting traditional artefacts. Unique items like palmyra fibre handicrafts can be purchased from Tirunelvel while bronze and brass castings can be bought from Kumbakonam. Chennai is also popular for offering finest silk, which can be found at Kanchipuram shops and boutiques. Shopping in the city is an experience in itself as tourists can visit the local wholesale and retail market as well as upscale malls. Apart from shopping, tourists can enjoy a seaside stroll at Marina Beach, which is the longest urban beach in India. Tourists can also pay a visit to popular eateries for savouring delectable local cuisine.
The weather should be kept in mind while making a trip to Chennai as this city experiences hot and humid temperature for most of the year. It is advised to plan a tour between the months of November and February when the temperature goes to a soothing minimum of 18�C.