Lesser-Known Facts About Chennai | Historical Facts About Chennai

Are you looking for lesser-known facts about Chennai? Here is a collection of interesting and fun facts about Chennai  which You’ve Never Heard Before as well as you can also read general information about Chennai  such as about culture, history, government rule, etc.

Chennai, which is the capital city of Tamil Nadu state in South India. Chennai has a historical significance in India and is also the best city in terms of tourism. In this post, I am going to tell you some amazing and interesting facts about Chennai.

 

Chennai is one of the most beautiful cities in South India, which holds great importance in natural, cultural, and historical forms. Tourists are engaged throughout the year to enjoy the sea climate. It is an excellent option to spend a wonderful holiday, where you can come with your family or friends. The natural attractions provide a unique experience of spiritual and mental peace.

Chennai is a unique tourist destination that welcomes every age group. Tourists can enjoy the scenic beauty along with the excursions here. By the way, this city has a different history of its own, which has many interesting facts inside it. Today in this article, we will tell you about those interesting facts related to Chennai.

Amazing Famous Facts About Chennai For Tourists and Kids

1.Name of the city

Very few people are aware of the fact that this city got its name in Chennai in 1996 before it was known as Madras. The word Madras derives, its name from the fishermen’s village Madrasapattinam. The village is, placed north of St. George’s Church. There is also a fact related to the name that Madras name Madrasana is a word derived from the name of a fisherman, although the exact details about how much truth is there in this fact are not available.

2.Detroit of India

Chennai is, also recognized as the Detroit of India. Manufacturers of many international brands of vehicles are present, making it an important automobile hub. The beach attracts foreign companies due to their riverine and special geographical location.

3.Connemara

The Chennai-based Konemara is known by most as an old public library but, most would not be aware of the fact that this library is one of the four National Depository Libraries in India that publish all books, periodicals, and news published in India. Receives, a copy of the letters. It also serves as a depository library for the United Nations.

4.World bank office

Very few people are aware of the fact that there is a World Bank office in Chennai which, is known as the World Bank Chennai Office. The office is spread over an area of 3.5 acres. If you go to Chennai, then definitely see the office of the International Bank.

5.Buhari Hotel & Chicken 65

The famous chain of Buhari hotels has existed in Chennai since, 1951 and Chicken 65, a popular dish associated with chicken, is believed to have originated in the kitchen of the hotel. This hotel has long been serving favorite dishes to the dining enthusiasts. Apart from chicken 65, you can also try chicken 78, 82, and chicken 90. The founder of that hotel was AM Buhari.

6.Giant banyan tree

Very few people know that Chennai has a huge banyan tree which is, counted among the oldest banyan trees in the world. According to the information, the age of this tree is around 450 years. The old tree is located inside the Adyar Theosophical Society of the city. The branches of that huge tree cover an area of ​​about 40,000 square feet. Due to the devastating storm in 1989, the main branch of the tree has been broken now only the remaining part is left. You can come to see that huge tree.

7.The second-longest urban beach is, also located in Chennai

The world’s second-longest urban beach is, also located in Chennai. Marina Beach in Chennai is, spread over about six kilometers. Marina Beach located on the coastline of Koom and Adyar cities is very beautiful to see. Apart from that, people come from far and wide to visit here. The evening of that Marina Beach in Chennai is extremely breathtaking and beautiful for tourists.

8.Madras used to be before 17 July 1996

The city of Chennai seems to be less praised. It has an older relationship than history. The name of this city was Madras before 17 July 1996. According to a Mid-Day report, the city of Chennai has been dominated by the British for a long time. Most countries in Europe tried to colonize it.

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9.First conditional access system implemented

Chennai is the first city in India to have large-scale Wi-Fi access. At the same time, the conditional access system for cable TV was also implemented for the first time, which allows the user to control the content that comes on the TV. At the same time, the English newspaper Spectator started in 1836 was the first daily newspaper from Chennai in 1853.

10.Different concepts among people regarding the name

At the same time, people have different concepts about the name Chennai. The first theory regarding its name says that it is, named after the Telugu ruler Damarla Chennappa Nayakudu. He was known as the father of Chandragiri and Vandavasi and the father of Marla Venkatadatri Naikudu. The town was acquired by the British in 1639.

11.Named after Chenna Kesava Perumal Temple

The second theory states that it was, called after the Chenna Kesava Perumal Temple. The word Chennai in Tamil means face. Along with the temple, it is, recognized as the face of the city. On the other hand, historian JB Prashant More says that the name Chennai is Telugu and is not from Tamil.

12.Different misconceptions about the name Madras

There were also different misconceptions about the name Madras. It was, said that Madras originated from the Portuguese phrase Mae-de-Deus. It means Mother of God because at that time the port of the city was controlled by the Portuguese. Some say it was taken from Madrasapattinam, a fishing village north of Fort St. George.

13.These things are, still called in the name of Madras

At the same time, the military mapmakers believed that Madras was originally Mundir-raj or Mundiraj. It was also said that the word Madras, was derived from Madhu Rasa. In Sanskrit, honey is called honey juice. However, Madras is, still known by the name of University, IIT, Medical College, Veterinary College, Christian College, etc.

14. Some colleges in Chennai are one of the oldest engineering and medical colleges in the world.

15. Chennai has the lowest pollution among major cities in India despite having more than 2 million vehicles.

16. Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is formerly known as Madras. Chennai is the most populous city in the state.

17. Due to torrential rains in 2017 and 2018, this metropolis was, almost submerged in water. In 2017, 109 habitations of the city and 89 habitations in 2018 were, submerged.

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General facts about Chennai

• Country – India
• State – Tamil Nadu
• District – Chennai district
• Former name – Madras
• Established – 1639
• Elevation – 6 m (20 ft)
• Population (2011)– 70.9 lakhs
• Sex Ratio – 989 female(♀) 1000 on male (♂)
• Males Population (2011) – 2,335,844
• Female Population (2011) – 2,310,888
• Literacy Rate – (2011) 90.18 %
• Best season to visit – pre-monsoon and the winter season
• Targeted Railway Station – Chennai Central railway station
• Airport – Chennai International Airport
• Altitude – 6.7 m

History of Chennai

Chennai was earlier known as Madras and is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. Chennai is the manufacturing hub of the country, due to which it is called the ‘Detroit of India. The 400-year-old Chennai city has a colorful history that has contributed immensely to its rich heritage, grand architecture, culture, and traditions. The region has been, ruled by all the major Indian dynasties like Chola, Pandya, Pallava, and Vijayanagar. Due to its perfect location on the banks of the Bay of Bengal, it has wooed the British, but also the Portuguese and Dutch.

The first visitors to this place came in 1522 who built, the beautiful church, Sao Tome. The region was also part of the Vijayanagara Empire. When the British arrived, they had established their supremacy with the support of weak Dutch and Portuguese forces. The Madras Presidency was established in the late 18th century in South India.

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Subsequently, the development of railways and ports made the city the linchpin of the British and it was the only Indian city bombed by the Germans during World War I. After independence, Madras was renamed as the capital of Tamil Nadu. Madras was, engulfed in political violence during the Sri Lankan Civil War in the 1980s. In 1998, Madras was, renamed Chennai.

Tourism In Chennai

Chennai is formerly known as Madras. It is the fourth largest state of India and one of the major tourist attractions of South India. Chennai is a city with a rich cultural history that balances its heritage with its rich modern lifestyle. Chennai is famous for its skyscrapers and the old temples and churches in its various parts are quite crowded.
Chennai is a city steeped in rich South-Indian culture that has a plethora of dimensions that you can explore. The second largest beach in the world is Marina Beach which is one of the most visited places by tourists in the city. If you want to know more about Chennai, then definitely read this article, in this, we are going to give information about major tourist places and places of Chennai.

T.Nagar

T.Nagar is famous for its roadside markets as there are street vendors as well as big shopkeepers on both sides of the road. In the winter months, Chennai gets good discounts from big sellers during the festival time. You must visit branded goods shops once before going to cheap street shops.

In Pandian Bangles T.Nagar you will also find items matching your dress. Ranganathan Street is a famous place for bag selection and if you are skilled in bargaining then, you can get your bags at a low price.

Pandi Bazar

This market is especially for college-goers as it sells trendy accessories at low prices. Time can be spoiled to like anything because this market is full of a variety of earrings, watches, bags.

Parry’s corner

It is the oldest street market in Chennai, located in George Town. There are 25 roads at this place. It is considered to be a wholesale market for goods such as clothing, cosmetics, and other items, etc. You must visit Peri Mudali Street, Godown Street, Bundar Street, Devaraja Mudali Street, Anderson Street, Evening Bazaar Street, and many other roads for enjoyable and colorful shopping.

St. George’s Fort

This fort, built by Francis Day in 1640, was a stronghold of British power in India. This fort currently houses the Legislative Assembly Legislative Council and the Office of the State Secretariat. This fort is very significant and visible from art.

Breezy Beach

Breezy Beach is, located in a remote and quiet neighborhood of Valmiki Nagar, Chennai. Being small and less polluted it is an ideal place to spend time in the evening in a peaceful manner. This beach is not very famous due to which it is very secretive, and it is known as Elliot’s Beach. Breezy beach evenings are quite attractive and beautiful in the evening. In recent years, a lot of tourists have been, attracted to this beach.

Elliot’s beach

It is a beautiful beach spread in the city of Besant. This beach is usually quiet. This beach is no less than a paradise for picnics and a relaxed atmosphere.

Horticulture garden

The park is, located on Cathedral Road. Spread over an area of about 22 acres, this garden is decorated with a variety of colorful flowering plants and trees. Tourists often come in the exploration of peace in the green environment of this place.

Kolli hills

Koli Hills is a significant tourist destination in Chennai. Mountain of Death ‘, Koli Hills is a mountain range located in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is not associated with commercial tourism, but it still retains its natural beauty. This mountain has religious significance not only for its natural beauty but also due to the Arpapaleshwar temple which is, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

MGR Film City

MGFilm City was established in, the year 1994, which is managed by the Government of Tamil Nadu and was built in the memory of MG Ramachandran, who was not only the famous Tamil actor but also the CM of Tamil Nadu for a long time. MGR Film City is a huge tourist destination on 70 acres in Taramani which, has been the site of directors of many South Indian films. Recently MGR Knowledge Park has been opened, which has further increased the attraction.

Little fak

It is a recreational spot on Mahabalipuram Road, about 46 km from Chennai. Toy trains, Iridescent fountains, and big pianos are unique attractions for children.

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram (also known as Mamallapuram), 57 km from Chennai, is located in Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu state. It is famous for its shore temples built in the 7th century. A day trip from Mahabalipuram, Chennai can be, done. It is also a significant historical / heritage site in Tamil Nadu and one of the best places to experience Tamil Nadu tourism.

It was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an ancient historical city and was a bustling port in the 7th century AD during the Pallava kings. According to the saga, it is named after the demon king Mahabali who was famous for his generosity. Some people say that its name is Mamallapuram.

Dash n splash

Dash n Splash is a water park about 25 kilometers from Chennai. Sliding from a height of 12 to 35 feet can be enjoyed.

Valluvarkottam

This building, built-in memory of the famous Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, has a life-size statue of him. Which is, installed on a 33-meter long chariot?

Marundeeswarar Temple

Marundeshwarar Temple is a Shiva temple, in the form of Marundeshwara or Aushadeshwarar located in Thiruvanmiyur near Chennai who is worshiped as the God of Medicines. If you are traveling to Chennai then, you must go to visit this temple. The Marundeshwar temple has been a place of worship especially for people with diseases and for people suffering from various problems besides their health.

Giddy National Park

It is a beautiful garden. You can see different species of cat, monkey, deer, jackal, and birds. There are also crocodile houses, snake houses and amusement parks for children. You can have fun with your children.

Ashtalakshmi Temple

Ashtalakshmi Temple is one of the religious places in Chennai located in Besant Nagar, a few meters from Besant beach on the coast of Bay of Bengal. This temple has Ashtalakshmi Vasa, the goddess of wealth and knowledge, the mother who blesses those who visit this temple. This temple is so unique that around 7 million rupees were, spent on its renovation and more than 1.6 crores were spent on organizing religious important Hindu ceremonies.

ISKCON (Hare Rama Hare Krishna) Temple Chennai

This Temple in Chennai is a temple devoted to Lord Krishna which is, situated on East Coast Road in South Chennai. The ISKCON temple built on 1.5 acres of land is the largest Radha Krishna temple in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The temple was officially inaugurated on 26 April 2012. ISKCON is the significant religious place in Chennai which includes, the whole family of God including Radha Krishna and Sri Nitai Gaurang.

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, located in Chennai is a significant pilgrimage site which is, one of the most visited and revered places in Tamil Nadu. This temple was established in 1952 by Narasimha Swamiji. A large number of devotees visit this temple every year to visit Sai Baba.

Valluvar Kottam

Valluvar Kottam is a temple in Chennai that is a chariot-like monument. The temple was, built in honor of the Siddha classical Tamil poet and saint, Thiruvalluvar. Kalaignar was created by M. Karunanidhi to honor Thiruvalluvar’s contribution during the 1970s. Valluvar Kottam is known for its magnificent architecture, which is the best time to visit in the morning or evening.

Vivekananda House

Vivekananda House is also known as Ice House which is, the pilgrimage center for the followers and followers of Swami Vivekananda. Swami Vivekananda stayed at this place for six weeks in 1900.

Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Santhome Cathedral is a historical and ancient pilgrimage site built in the 14th to 15th century A.D. by the then reigning Portuguese. Situated near Chennai Beach, the church was named after St. Thomas, an apostle of Christ. Santhome Cathedral is one of the major attractions of Chennai. People of Christianity know visiting this place.

Dakshinachitra Museum

Dakshinchal Museum is one of the best places to visit in Chennai. It is one of the living-history museums in India that houses a collection of great works of architecture, performing arts, crafts, and lifestyles. The museum was opened to the public on 14 December 1996 and is home to 4,220 artifacts and 1,000,000 paintings.

Government Museum

This government museum is quite old. Artifacts of the Pallava Chola and Pandya kings can be seen, in it. There is also an art gallery. In which samples and pictures of modern and ancient times can be, seen.

MGM Dizzee World

MGM Digi World is one of the largest and oldest amusement parks in India. Which gives tourists some unique experiences. It is an amusement park that gives a great experience to people of all ages. You can visit this park with your family. All the family members with children can enjoy this park. MGM Digi World also has an aqua park filled with lots of water rides and other activities.

Planetarium

The foundation of this planetarium was, laid in 1989. Here you can see events like the moon, sun, star position, spacecraft, planets, lunar eclipse, and solar eclipse.

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Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a famous picnic spot in Chennai located at Vandalur in Kanchipuram district. In this park, you can explore flora and fauna. The park is a weekend favorite place for both children and adults. Arignar Anna Zoological Park is, located at a distance of 32 km from Chennai. It is the largest zoo in Southeast Asia spread over an area of ​​1260 acres.

Botanical Garden of Chennai

A beautiful botanical garden in Chennai is named Semmozi Punga. The park has been established by the Horticulture Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu. Which was opened to the general public on 24 November 2010? The garden is located at Cathedral Road-Anna Salai Junction.

This beautiful garden has grown more than 500 flora. This lush green place is very successful among tourists. 80 such trees were present before the park was, established. Some of which are almost 100 years old. In this garden, you will find native plants, medicinal and aromatic herbs in addition to the external flora. There are also those species which, have been imported from China-Thailand.

Marina Beach

Marina Beach is Chennai’s largest tourist destination, India’s most crowded beach with around 30,000 tourists. Let us tell you that this sea is, spread over a distance of 13 kilometers, which is the longest natural urban beach in the country.

Pulicat Lake

Pulicat lake in Tamil Nadu is one of the few lakes in South India. Which is known for its natural beauty. The lake has a length of about 60 km and a width of 15 km. The depth of this lake is 18 meters. Pulicat Lake is considered an ideal option for boating and bird watching. You can see bird species like Flamingo, Kingfisher, and Ibis. You can come to spend a good time with family and friends.

Kapaleeswarar Temple

Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a holy shrine of Lord Shiva located in Mylapur, Chennai. And it is the most visited religious place. This temple was formerly built by powerful Pallavas. Portuguese explorers destroyed the temple, and around 16 century the kings of Vijayanagar rebuilt the temple.

If you visit this temple, you get a glimpse of Tamil religious culture and beautiful architectural combination of two styles – Dravidian and Vijayanagara. This temple also has a sacred tank on the western side. The huge 37-meter-long gate of this temple is particularly visible.

Haunted and scary place

Do you like going to ghostly and scary places? If yes, Chennai has hidden many such experiences for you. There are famous tales of terrible and strange incidents all over the city.

De monte colony

We are going to tell you about such a place in Chennai that you will be shocked to hear about. The name of that scary place is De Monte Colony which is, located near St. Mary’s Road. The entire section of that colony was, owned by John de Monte in the 19th century, who was a businessman by profession.

It is, said that De Mont lived with his wife in a house in De Monte Colony, he was very unhappy with his life. His wife’s mental condition was also not good. Meanwhile, one day, his son dies. After which De Monte and his wife mysteriously die. After which many people have seen that ghost walking on the road in the moonlight night. Trees have grown on the houses in such a way that creates doubt in the minds of the people.

People there say that they have seen the ghost of the owner of that colony walking around the houses and the road at midnight. A Tamil horror film has also been, made in this story. It is said that once a security guard, was deployed in the colony under the protection of the people. The next day he was found dead at his place of duty. Even pets or stray animals that roam that strange area disappear.

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Some people who live close to that colony say that that place is ghostly. So some people refuse to believe in all this. But no one passes through it in the evening. Now, that colony is completely dilapidated. Many trees, can be seen inside the colony, due to the dense trees that place looks scarier.

Looking at the colony, why is it so, scary because things are broken everywhere due to lack of cleanliness here. That place has been, called ghostly but so far no one has seen anything unusual.

Well, the news of the horrors of De Monte Colony is true we don’t know. If you live in Chennai or are visiting Chennai and if you are very adventurous then, you can visit that place.

Anna Flyover, Chennai

It is one of the most haunted flyovers in India. The place is very scary even during the day, strange things happen. Some strange sounds are heard at night. Which is very terrible to hear.

2-lane East Coast Road of Chennai

That is a wonderful place for road driving, but just as the day starts to darken in the same way, the feeling of a soul is, felt among the passengers passing through it. It is said that many years ago, a girl died in an accident on the road whose soul wanders. Some people have experienced such strange and poor experiences while passing through that road that the soul of any person will be shaken by listening.

Best Time To Visit Chennai

Chennai is one of the most famous religious capital cities of India which attracts tourists due to its rich culture and art. If you are planning to visit this city, then let us tell you that due to its geographical location, the climate is hot and hot and humid. Therefore, the best time to visit Chennai is the pre-monsoon and winter season which, occurs between October and February. These months are, considered the best time to travel to Chennai.

Local Food In Chennai

Local foods in Chennai include South Indian food such as idli, dosa, and sambar. From roadside stalls to upcoming you can enjoy a variety of delicious food. The city has a vibrant street food culture as well as excellent food. Be sure to taste the filter coffee as well as Idli, Dosa, Appam, Vada, Upma, Sambar, Parota, Sweet Pongal, Chettinad chicken, Kesari, Payasam, Chicken Stew, Pepper Chicken and more.

Places to visit in Chennai

• Visit the two-story mansion, the Freemason Hall, where periodic Masonic meetings are hosted.
• Visit the Hanging Garden located in North Chennai, which has now been renovated by the Archaeological Survey of India.
• The parallel theater called ‘Kuthu-P-Patrai’ organizes cultural activities besides conducting Tamil cultural activities.
• Sixty kilometers from Chennai visit the ancient Pulicat Lake.
• Visit the Jail Bazaar located near the Chennai Jail, where miscellaneous items ranging from sweets made by prison inmates to trinkets are displayed.
• Kattipalli Island (40 km from Chennai)
• Mylapore Fest
• Sadara Beach Resort (68 km from Chennai)
• Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, the oldest water bird sanctuary in India (75 km from Chennai)
• Nagalapuram Falls (87 km from Chennai)
• Arunachal Temple – Tiruvannamalai (19 km from Chennai)
• Gingee Fort
• 

• Tirupati (134 km)
• Pondicherry (170 km)
• Kanchipuram (75 km)
• Mahabalipuram (57 km)
• Kanipakam (175 km)
• Tirumala (155 km)
• Vellore (142 km)
• Srikalahasti (113 km)
• Talakona Falls (192 km)
• Tada Falls / Ubalamadugu Falls (near Srikalahasti) (92 km)
  hidden gems

Where to stay

Some popular hotels to stay here are:

• Leela Palace Hotel
• Park Hyatt Hotel
• Taj Coromandel

How to reach Chennai

Chennai is, well connected to major cities of the country, and daily trains, are easily available. Along with this, Chennai is well connected to both national and international cities by air. Apart from this, buses are also easily available from nearby parts of Chennai.

How to reach Chennai by Flight

Chennai International Airport is, located at a distance of 7 km from the city of Chennai. Let us tell you that this is the third busiest airport in India. Domestic, as well as international flights, arrive. The Ana terminal receives international flights from various major cities in the world. Kamaraj Terminal, 150 meters from Anna Terminal, has several domestic flights available that connect Chennai to major Indian cities.

How to reach Chennai by Train

If you want to travel to Chennai by train, then Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore are the main railway stations of the city, there are regular trains from various major cities of India such as Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata and, Hyderabad, etc.

How to reach Chennai by Road

Chennai is, well connected to other cities in India by road. Various national highways of Chennai are connected to Bengaluru (330 km), Puducherry (162 km), Thiruvallur (47 km) and Trichy (326 km). To reach Chennai by road, you can hire a car as well as use state transport buses.

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If you know any new things about Chennai, then definitely tell through the comments so that other people can read, thanks.