Chennai is the usual entry point to the state
of Tamil Nadu for international visitors, and the city can stand alone
as an excellent incentive destination due to its rich heritage and
availability of first-class conference facilities.
Worth including on an incentive tour of the city is the St George
Fort, which was built in 1640 A.D. It served as the first bastion of
the East India Company, and now houses the Secretariat and the
Legislative Assembly. The 46-metre high flagstaff, at the front of the
structure is actually a mast from a 17th century shipwreck. The Fort
Museum houses memories and souvenirs from the times of the British Raj,
and St. Mary's Church built in 1678-1680 happens to be the oldest
Anglican Church in India and also the oldest British construction.
For a more indigenous look, Mylapore is the site of the famous
Kapaleeswarar Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord
Shiva, and is Chennai's oldest temple, not to mention a visually
stunning edifice. Near the temple, is the San Thome Cathedral, which is
said to contain the remains of St. Thomas the Apostle (Doubting Thomas),
while the Parathasarathy Temple, built in the eighth century, is
renowned for its architectural brilliance and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
The Government Museum and Art Gallery showcases a
fascinating archaeological history of the state, as well as a bronze
gallery. For an insight into the world of Indian dance, a visit to
Kalakshetra, an internationally renowned institution for Indian
classical dance and music, is an outstanding example of the cultural
heritage of Tamil Nadu. It is worth noting that from mid-December to
mid-January, Chennai comes alive with the annual Carnatic Classical
Music and Dance Festival, which showcases some of the most creative and
colourful Indian culture.
Chennai is also an excellent base for trips further afield to
explore the flora and fauna of the state and to try out a few sport and
adventure trips (see Eco-tourism and Activity travel sections).
Kanchipuram is a one and a half hour bus journey (about 75
kilometres) from Chennai on the Chennai-Bangalore Road. Renowned as a
famous trade centre for Kanchipuram silk, it is also the site of many of
the region's most impressive temples, such as the Sri Ekambareshvara
Temple and Kailasanatha Temple, and is an important religious centre for
Shiva worshippers. Originally a Buddhist centre, it was established by
the Mauryan Emperor Asoka in the third century B.C., and eventually
became the capital of the Pallava rulers. It was here the first stone
temples in South India were built.
Also known as Udhagamandalam or Ootacamund, Ooty is the
headquarters of the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu. It is the first hill
station in India established by the British during the 19th century.
Ooty is a 14-hour bus journey from Chennai, and is a place for outdoor
activities. The Botanical Gardens of 1848, the famous Flower Show (which
takes place in May), the horse races, horse riding, boating, and St.
Stephen's Church, are all major attractions.
Famous for its stunning waterfalls, which total nine, Kuttalam
is said to have waters rich in minerals containing curative qualities.
It is a popular health resort for families who enjoy the invigorating
experience of standing and bathing under the waterfalls.
