Chennai (Madras): 20 Apr 2008 to 22 Apr 2008

Chennai or Madras, capital of Tamil Nadu State, is one of the principal ports in India, interestingly enough with an entirely artificial harbour. Founded by the East India Company in 1639, the city grew around Fort Saint George, home to Saint Mary’s Church, the Fort Museum and Secretariat Building, a remnant of former days under British rule. One of India’s greatest poets, Subramanya Bharathi, spent his last years at the Victorian mansion of Bharathiyar Illam. Popular and extensive Marina Beach spotlights a portion dedicated to statues of Tamil leaders. At the beach’s south end you will find the Light House and San Thome Basilica, named after “doubting” Apostle Thomas, who supposedly was killed outside of Chennai in 78 A.D. For exploration outside of town, consider Kancheepuram, the Golden City of a Thousand Temples, one of the seven sacred cities in India.

Excursions:
CHENNAI HIGHLIGHTS

KANCHIPURAM

MAHABALIPURAM – WORLD HERITAGE SITE