A town rich in natural beauty and ancient temples, Chengalpattu is also a growing urban centre. Believed to have derived its name from ‘chenkazhuneer poo’ which is a type of lily found aplenty in this region, Chengalpattu has been witnessing developmental activities over the past few years, making it an ideal town to work and live in. Located just 56 kms away form the State capital of Chennai, Chengalpattu is often referred to as the ‘Gateway of Chennai’.
One of the main attractions of the region is the Kovalai lake. The area offers spectacular views to the visitors and is a place to spend time and relax. What makes Chengalpattu special is the rich history that the region has behind it. Chengalpattu was an erstwhile base of the Vijayanagar Kings and the French in India. The town was formerly a capital of the Vijayanagara Kings. A fortress that was built by the kings of Vijayanagara in the 16th century was for a period of time a location of great strategic importance. Later the Fort turned out to be a location of importance to the British as well.
By 1900, Chengalpattu had become a town of trade and commerce, with manufacturing of pottery and rice trade. A local market centre was developed and it became the hub of these commercial activities. The surrounding areas witnessed many other commercial undertakings including cotton & silk weaving, a salt manufacturing unit, a cigar factory, tanneries, indigo dyeing and so on.
Chengalpattu Bus Terminal, J C K Nagar
Chennai International Airport, about 46 km away
Chengalpattu Railway Station
November to June
The splendour of South Indian architecture radiates brightly in this shore. The majesty and glory of the Mamallapuram Shore Temple is one for all ages. Close your eyes. Meditate. Relieve yourself from the pressures of the world.
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Ancient temples that reflect the glory of erstwhile kingdoms, pristine beaches that emanate matchless natural beauty, rich cultural heritage that welcomes you with warmth – Mahabalipuram is in many ways the splendidly vibrant destination you will love to visit many times.
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And at the very heart of Mamallapuram lies a marvel, a wonder, a testament to the grandeur of the past - the incomparable, the indomitable, the ethereal, Krishna's Butterball.
Visit the museum and behold the breathtaking collection of rare and unique shells - a veritable cornucopia of shapes, sizes, and colours - each more magnificent than the last. From the spiralled elegance of the conch shells to the delicate intricacy of cowrie shells, the museum's collection is an awe-inspiring visual feast.
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Chengalpattu is a hub of ancient monuments, temples, beaches and boating. The crocodile bank and zoological park provide a great tourist experience.
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Mahabalipuram, a quaint coastal hamlet in the southernmost reaches of India, is a destination of unparalleled grandeur and splendour. Nestled amidst the azure waters of the Bay of Bengal and the verdant greenery of the Tamil Nadu countryside, this ancient city is home to one of the most opulent and ornate temple complexes in the world, the Tiger Cave.
Tucked amidst the idyllic landscapes of the Tamil Nadu coast lies a realm of lore, beauty, and marvel. The coastal town of Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a masterpiece of enchantment, woven from the strands of antique history, captivating scenery, and cultural opulence.
Tucked away in the lush, emerald groves of Muttukadu lies a grand and opulent palace of culture and heritage: Dakshinachitra. This illustrious abode of South Indian art, architecture, and tradition is a true treasure trove of India's rich cultural heritage, an oasis of beauty and splendour where one can revel in the rich tapestry of South Indian lifestyles and crafts.
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