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Welcome to Chennai

Chennai formerly known as Madras, is the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India and is the country's fourth-largest city. It is on the Coromandel coast of the Bay of Bengal. With an estimated population of 7.45 million (2005), the 367-year-old city is the 34th largest metropolitan area in the world. It has the 2nd longest seashore in the world.

History
Madras was founded in 1639 when the British East India Company (represented by Francis Day and Andrew Cogan and aided by a local translator Beri Thimappa) was granted land to build a trading settlement by the local ruler (Nayak) of the suburb of Vandavasi, Damerla Venkatapathy Nayak. The document of the land grant is dated Aug 22nd 1639 and hence Madras celebrates its birthday on Aug 22nd each year as Madras day. Madras was one of the first outposts of British East India Company. Colonel William Lambton, superintendent of the great Trigonometrical Survey of India, started his journey of triangulating India from St. Thomas Mount. The British built Fort St. George (today the legislative and administrative seat of the state). Fort St George was completed on St George's day in 1640 (April 23rd) and hence was named after the patron saint. George Town then developed becoming the modern city of Madras, absorbing several nearby boroughs. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is associated with Chennai. He is said to have come to India as an evangelist and died in what is now Chennai. Two suburbs, Santhome and St. Thomas Mount, are named in his memory.

In 1996, the Tamil Nadu government renamed Madras to Chennai providing the reason that 'Chennai' was the city's traditional name while Madras was one derived during colonial rule.

Madras is derived from Madraspatnam, a name given to the area when the British negotiated settling there. The origin of the name is uncertain. Tradition suggests that a fishing village near to the location of the British settlement was called Madraspatnam. Others think early Portuguese may have called the area Madre de Sois after an early settler, or Madre de Deus after an early church (of St. Mary).

Chennai is derived from Chennapatnam, a name with almost equally uncertain origins. Tradition has it that Chennapatnam was the name of a fishing village near to the location of Madraspatnam. However it is not clear if the village was there beforehand or grew up around the British Madraspatnam settlement. There are some suggestions that the name was given to the developing Indian settlement honor a local Indian administrator.

As the settlements grew, the exact location of both Chennapatnam and Madraspatnam became confused as the two settlements merged into a single town.

Under the British, the then city of Madras grew to be a major city, It was the capital of the Madras presidency, a province that covered the parts of Southern India that were not governed by any of the other princely states. After independence, it became the capital of Madras state, and when the states were reorganized on a linguistic basis, it became the capital of Tamil Nadu.

Chennai boasts of many well known people including Elihu Yale, who's liberal gift funded the construction of Yale University in 1718; Indira Nooyi CEO of Pepsi International; A.R. Rahman, the musical genius of "Slumdog Millionaire", Maniratanm the ace film Director, Vijay Armirthraj, Ramesh Krishnan and his father Ramanathan krishnan who were holding the Indian flag high in Tennis and chess wizard Vishwanathan Anand among many others.

Culture
Chennai is gateway to the South, and its culture is distinctly different from that of any other city in India. Tamil tradition and culture is essentially the celebration of the beauty, which is exemplified through dance, clothing, and sculptures. Chennai is both an orthodox and a modern cosmopolitan city; the culture of the city reflects its diverse population. The traditional arts, music, dance and all other art forms of Tamil Nadu grow and flourish here. The food is a unique blend of traditional, to fast foods and filter kaapi. It’s a land of temples and priests. The architecture ranges from ancient temples to modern high-rises. Music is classical and western, to the growing nightlife in the city. You can find a school of for traditional Bharatanatyam or Salsa dance and for music a veena / violin or for Guitar/drums school in almost every neighborhood of the city. Chennai checks reflects its traditionalism every December when the music season is in full swing. Clothes are generally conservative but young people are contemporary.

Climate
Climate of Chennai is Tropical.

Chennai has mainly two seasons - summer (35 deg C - 42 deg C) Apr,May & June (Highest temperature ever recorded is 45 deg c on 30th May 2003) and monsoon (Oct, Nov and Dec). It receives scanty rainfall from the south-west monsoon(June to September) , but gets its bountiful rains from the north-east monsoon from October through December, thus amounting to about 125-150 cm of rainfall annually. Rainfalls occur usually from October to December. During some seasons, Chennai gets ample amount of rainfall if there are depressions in Bay of Bengal.

December to February are the mildest months temperature - (19 deg C - 28 deg C).

Climate is humid pretty much throughout the year because the city is on the coast. Summers are very hot and humid. Be sure take along light (not flimsy) clothing.

Talk
Tamil is the official language in Chennai, and also the first language of most locals. Almost all people speak Tamil, a classical language, picking up some knowledge of the local language is useful to get by in Chennai as in every city in the world. However, knowledge of English is sufficient for the average visitor to the city. English education is widespread in Chennai, thanks to an excellent network of schools throughout the city. All educated people in Chennai can speak fluent English while almost everybody will understand simple English and can speak a few words. All important signboards are in English. All transactions with commercial establishments are typically in English.

Unlike other major cities in India, Hindi is not widely understood, and many locals will find it offensive if you try to speak to them in Hindi.  

Get in by plane
Chennai International Airport (IATA: MAA) is the third busiest in India (after Mumbai & Delhi). All international flights arrive at Anna Terminal, while the domestic flights arrive at Kamraj Terminal. The two terminals are on the same road and are 150 metres away from each other.It is the second-largest cargo hub in the country, after Mumbai. Chennai is well connected to London , Frankfurt, Singapore, Malaysia, Middle east, New York, Hong Kong, etc.

Europe and North America: Jet Airways offers daily service to New York with one stop in Brussels. Lufthansa (Frankfurt) and British Airways (London-Heathrow), fly nonstop to Chennai with connecting service from their European hubs to points in the United States and Canada.

South-East Asia: Thai Airways offers nonstop service to Bangkok. Silk Air, Singapore Airlines and Tiger Airways connect you to Singapore along with many Indian carriers like Indian Airlines and Air India Express. AirAsia connects passengers to Kuala Lumpur, Penang with affordable fares while Malaysia Airlines offers nonstop service to Malaysia. India's very own Jet Airways flies non-stop to both Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Cathay Pacific flies non-stop to Hongkong. Air Mauritius flies non-stop to Mauritius. Air Seychelles flies nonstop to seychelles.

Middle East: Nonstop services are available from Chennai to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Dammam, Doha,Jeddah, Kuwait, Muscat, Qatar, Riyadh and Sharjah on Air Arabia, Indian Airlines, Air India Express, Oman Air, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Kuwait Airways, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian and Gulf Air.

Sri-Lanka: Chennai is a hub for flights to Colombo with SriLankan Airlines, Jet Airways, Indian Airlines, Air India Express, JetLite and Kingfisher Airlines. Chennai is the travelling hub for Colombo.

Domestic: All the major Indian domestic carriers (Jet Airways, Kingfisher, Spice, Go Air, Indigo) connect Chennai with multiple flights to points all over India and most use Chennai as a hub for flights to smaller cities in South India. Paramount Airways is a low cost all business class airline that offers flights from Chennai to points in South India. Chennai is also a staging point for flights to Port Blair in the Andaman Islands.

Airport to City connection
Use the pre-paid taxi to get to the city, each terminal has several booths for several taxi companies when you exit the airport, outside before you meet the crowd. Aviation Express has the best rep, figure on around Rs. 450 to the city centre for a Toyota Innova or equivalent. The fares are different for the domestic and international terminals though the terminals are next to each other. You can either choose the standard Taxis (Black with Yellow tops) which are usually the ancient Ambassador cars or the private call-taxi (which can come in any model and in any color). It's better to keep small change in hand while paying at the counters. Note the taxi number written on your charge slip (one copy is for the passenger and the other is for the driver to collect the fare from the counter). Make your way to the taxi stand and get the taxi number allotted at the designated desk. The helpful drivers offer to take your luggage and guide you to the taxi that drives up quickly near the allotment desk.
A new cab provider named "Fasttrack" has started off their service and a pre-paid booth of them is available at both domestic and international terminals. Comparing with the rest of the taxis their fare and service is pretty much good. Depends on your need you can get from Maruti van to Toyota Innova.

Prepaid and yellow top taxis are not airconditioned, are of vintages right from 70s and 80s, rickety, prone to stop midway, drivers exhibit rough behaviour, sometimes could be dangerous, demand exorbitant fares, pre-paid may mean nothing and they may demand more when you get down. Keep away from these types.

You are best off taking the train into town which only costs a few rupees. Otherwise, use the pre-paid taxi booth. Aviation Express is massively overpriced.

You can also get to the city center by train. Just get outside of the airport, and keep walking to the main road. There is an underpass that you can use to get across the National highway 45. You will reach Tirisulam railway station from where you can take a train that transports you to the city.

It is advisable to take a first class ticket in the train if you happen to reach the airport during peak hours. The general compartments are crowded in peak hours as they transport regular commuters to work.

See
There's nothing much to see from a traditional tourists's point of view. Most of the colonial buildings are usually in use as administrative offices and the traditional Tamil boroughs of Mylapore and Triplicane, though interesting are densely populated and aren't very welcoming to gawking though one should brave it at least through Mylapore. Chennai is more of a commercial city with various industries, banks, offices, port, & a thriving movie industry. The most popular forms of entertainment are a visit to the cinemas at the weekend or some time at the sandy beaches. Restaurants, watering holes and discotheques have been opening with increasing frequency and while the absolute numbers aren't much, they're more experimental than most Indian metros with the exception of maybe Mumbai and Bangalore. While in Chennai one can drop into one of the following places.

Beaches of Chennai:
Beach Watch Note- Although Chennai beaches are beautiful and inviting, they are not swimming beaches, due to strong under currents present along the shoreline. Swimming is absolutely not allowed. Be informed that there are no life guards and rescue equipment in place along the shore in any of beaches here. However there are, "beach police men" who ride on horses and keep an eye on the people and trouble. Some of the well-known beaches in Chennai are:

Text Box: Chennai Marina Beach Marina Beach: is 12 km long, offering excellent walks and has a very wide sandy foreshore. Its width is upto 300 metres. The Marina of Madras is the second longest beach in the world. it is an elegant promenade with flower beds along its lanes. Along the shore, there are many buildings built during the British rule. The South Beach Road runs past the Madras University, the Senate House, the Chepauk Palace (Nawabs of Carnatica once held their court here). It is the most popular gathering place for locals, especially in the evenings and on weekends. It can also get very crowded at those times. The beach is relatively less crowded in the early mornings and more pleasant. Walk along the Marina in the evening to cool off and eat crispy sundal and murukku. Watching sunset and sunrise from the beach is an experience by itself. It's not a swimming beach, though you will see people fully clothed taking partial dips. Other lesser known places in the Marina: Anna Square: Dr. C.N. Annadurai, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu was a very respectable personality among the people of Tamil Nadu. The mortal remains of Dr. C.N. Annadurai were buried at Anna Square, which is situated at the northern end of the Marina Beach. People from different parts of the state come here to pay their tribute to the great leader. It is located in the center of a park and the entrance is attractive. The beautiful arch is in the shape of twin converging elephant tusks. The tomb of Dr. C.N. Annadurai is flanked by imposing memorial pillar and eternal flame. People of Tamil Nadu affectionately called him 'Anna' meaning the elder brother. Though listed here Anna Square is not a must see place. There is nothing much to see, unless you have lots of time to spare.

Text Box: Edward Elliot's beach Edward Elliot's beach: is spread along the coast down south from Marina. It is also the night beach for Chennai youth. This beach is comparatively quieter and it is located near Besant Nagar. At the end of this beach are the Velankanni church and the Ashtalakshmi temple. Good roads, pavements, walking track illuminated sands, makes a visit to this beach a real pleasure.

 

 

 

 Text Box: Breezy Beach

Breezy Beach: Breezy Beach is located in the quiet neighborhood of Valmiki Nagar in Chennai. It is smaller and less popular than the Elliots beach. This beach is not as commercialized as the Elliots beach, and is hence more quiet and peaceful. Evenings are very pleasant and with gentle breezy here, Lots of tourists are attracted towards this beach. This beach is less polluted and environment friendly. Those who look for a calm, cool and breezy place to relax, this beach is the best place in Chennai.

 

 

Kovalam Beach or Covelong as it was known earlier is a small fishing village located 40 kms from Chennai on the way to Mahabalipuram. Now it is a luxury beach resort. There was a fort built by the Nawab of Carnatic, Saadat Ali. Now a luxury beach resort. It was here that the French General Labourdonnais landed his troops in 1746. Later it was taken by Robert Clive in 1752 and destroyed. The Beach is separated from the mainland by the canal running from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. Taj Group of Hotels runs the Fisherman's Cove Resort with rooms in the main buildings and cottages and the sandy beach here.

Music and Dance
Chennai is famous for its concerts and performances that take place in various auditoriums and temples throughout the year, which are announced in the Hindu and other local newspapers. During the Tamil month of Maargazhi (December - January) there is a series of classical Carnatic music concerts and classical dance performances in various parts of the city, but the best are organized in various Sabhas (loosely translates to "concert house"). You will see mostly older celebrities, although occasionally there will be some world-class young virtuosos.

  1. Sir Mutha Venkatasubba Rao Concert Hall , Madras Seva Sadan, No 7, Harrington Road , Chetpet . Call for details: +91 44 43561198 and +91 42146632, Email: info@sirmuthamemorial.com
  2. VDS Arts Academy, MOP Vaishnava College for Women, Nungambakkam. Music and Bharatanatyam dance concerts throughout the year at 6:30 PM., every Friday, Saturday and Sunday by young artists. Admission: free.
  3. Brahma Gana Sabha, Sivagami Pethachi Auditorium, M.Ct.M School, 179, Luz Church Road, +91 92821 06425, +91 98412 96684
  4. Indian Institute of Music and Arts, R.K Swamy Auditorium, Sir Sivaswamy Kalalaya, 5, Sundareswarar Street, Mylapore.
  5. Kartik Fine Arts, Narada Gana Sabha Hall, TTk Road. +91 44 2499 7788, +91 44 2495 2695
  6. 'Sri Krishna Gana Sabha, "Dr. Nalli Gana Vihar, 20. Maharajapuram Santhanam Road, T.Nagar, +91 44 2814 0806
  7. Sri Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha, Vani Mahal, 103, GN Chetty Road, +91 44 2815 2166 (The 25th Isai Iyal Nataka Vizha)
  8. Kalalayaa Art Academy , Kalalayaa Art Academy , 2nd Floor, 100ft Bye Pass Road, Velachery.(Landmark: Opp to Bharat Petroleum Petrol Bunk, Above Nuts & Spices) +91 98408 77546, +91 44 4303 6546

Cinema
When in Chennai, do not miss a chance to watch a movie. There are several cinemas in the city. Check out any local newspaper or websites to get to know the movies running in and around Chennai. Some of the cinema halls are

Udhayam Theatre, Ashok Pillar, Chennai
Devi Cineplex, In the heart of Chennai on Anna Salai. The Cineplex is a huge complex and a great architectural beauty.
Sathyam Cine Complex, Thiru-vi-ka Rd, phone 044-42244224
Escape Cinemas, Express Avenue, Royapettah, phone 044-4224 4224
Inox, Chennai Citi Centre, R.K.Salai
Mayajaal Cine Complex, ECR
Abhirami Cine Complex, Purasawalkam
Shanti Cine Complex, Anna Salai
Ega theatres, p.h road, Kilpauk (Features Hindi movies).
Sangam Cine Complex in kilpauk.
Rohini Cinema Complex, Koyambedu.
Ganga Theatre Complex in Kolathur.
Rakki Theatre in Ambattur.
PVR, AMPA SkyWalk Mall,Nelson Manickam Road.

 

Buy

Shopping Plazas

  1. Abirami mega mall Purasaiwakkam High road. It has a snow world, kids world.
  2. Chennai Citi Center 10, Radhakrishnan Salai. Opened March 2006 - Mostly has Western Style clothing and such. Spencer's is better for Indian style wares. Has food court, Cinema, and a supermarket.
  3. Shoppers' Stop  2, Harrington Road, Chetpet. The K.Raheja groups Shoppers' Stop is a departmental store.
  4. Ispahani Center Nungambakkam road. It has a cafe, bar & shops.
  5. Prince Plaza, Pantheon road, Egmore. It has been featured in many movies.
  6. Spencer Plaza  769, Anna Salai. Spencer is a Chennai landmark that dates back to colonial times. The original was destroyed in a fire, so the current building dates to 1983, but the newest "Phase III" section has a mock Indo-Saracenic atrium in the style of the original. One of the largest shopping malls in India, it has grown to cover three "Phases", and while the layout can be confusing, it's an excellent place to buy pretty much anything and everything you could possible want from India. Good food courts on the 2nd levels of Phase I and III.
  7. Ampa Mall. The biggest retail outlet in Chennai with big names like The body Shop,Levis,Bossini,Landmark(book and stationery store),United Colors Of Bennetton,Adidas,Reebok.It also has a food court with a lot of resteraunts and it also has Fast food giants like Mcdonalds,KFC and Pizza Hut.It also houses PVR Cinemas,a 7-screen Multiplex and a 20 room Boutique Hotel.
  8. Express Avenue, the new amazing mall on Royapettah High Road. Probably one of the biggest in the heart of the city. The biggest Lifestyle store is in this mall. It's also got big names like the FCUK, Mothercare, Hush Puppies, Haley's, PeekaBoo Patterns etc, and also the Big Bazaar.

Clothes

  1. T Nagar, lot of cloth shops
  2. Milou, Swiss brand for kids 0 to 14 yrs, No.5, Century Plaza, Near Mariott Hotel, Annasalai, Teynampet, Ph - +91 44 24337272
  3. Amethyst, Sundar Mahal, Padmavathi Road, Jeypore Colony, Gopalapuram Ph - +91 442820 3582
  4. Anokhi, “Chamiers”, Old #47 (new #85), Chamiers Road, R A Puram.
  5. Brass Tacks, 77/13, Corporation Shopping Complex, C.P. Ramaswamy Road, Alwarpet, +91 44 4208 1767. Contemporary clothing from natural fibres for women.
  6. FabIndia. The Ilford House location at 3 Woods Road is probably the best in terms of choices and selections. This is the place to go for all your natural-dyed, hand loomed and hand made textiles. The prices have been going up the last few years, but FabIndia is the only source for this sort of textile in Chennai at any retail outlet.
  7. Just Casuals, Nungambakkam, 1, Sterling Road, +91 044 28273882. A good place to head if you're in the mood for the Banana Republic/Abercrombie/Old Navy/Gap type stuff. They seem to get all the export rejects or overstocks. You'll find that all the brand tags are cut out due to some agreement with the manufacturer. The quality and prices are good, but unfortunately there's no bargaining possible.
  8. Handloom Exhibitions. Year-round there is always a handloom exhibition profiling the work of one state or the other. These temporary installations (you'll have to check the local papers to find out where they set up) generally have a good selection of interesting fabrics and textile products. And there is always the option to bargain, which makes it a better bet than oft-overpriced retail stores. The Royapettah YMCA (across from Royapettah Hospital) has a regular handloom exhibition.
  9. Shanti Colony, Annanagar is a hub for "seconds" clothing as in the above description for "Just Casuals".

Sarees

  1. Revathy Stores,No. 7/8, RK Mutt Road, Luz Bazaar Building, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004‎ - 044 24934328‎. Its a small store, but a wide variety of Kalyani and Indian Handloom sarees are available.
  2. Aavaranaa, 15, Ashoka Street, Alwarpet, +91 44 24988292.
  3. Vardhrams and Son's Silks, Harington Road, Chetpat.
  4. Nalli Silks, Panagal Park. Kanchipuram silk sarees.
  5. Kumaran Silks, Panagal Park. Kanchipuram silk sarees.
  6. Pothys, Panagal Park. Kanchipuram silk sarees.
  7. Chennai Silks, Panagal Park. Kanchipuram silk sarees.
  8. Hayagrivas, GN Chetty Road, (near Panagal Park). Sarees.
  9. RMKV Silks, Panagal Park. Kanchipuram silk sarees.

Jewellery

  1. Joyalukkas, 39 North Usman Road, T'Nagar. India's largest exclusive jewellery mall, housing the worlds largest jewellery showroom of international retailer Joyalukkas amongst other world renowned retailers.
  2. L.K.S Gold House, Usman Road, T'Nagar.
  3. Jaipur Gems, 50 Cathedral Road. Exclusive designer StarFire Diamond jewellery, authentic Jadau jewellery.
  4. Vummidi Bangaru Jewellery, Nungambakkam, Features diamonds and gold. There is also a location T'Nagar.
  5. Kirthilal Kaalidas-diamond Merchants Gold and Silver, CP Ramaswamy Road, Alwaarpet.
  6. NAC -Nathella Anjaneyalu Jewellery, Mylapore Tank.
  7. Aishwarya Jewellery, Mylapore Tank. Gold and silverware.
  8. Bapalal Jewellers, Kakani Towers, Cathedral Road. Diamond merchants.
  9. Jugalkishore Jewellers, CP Ramaswaamy Road, Alwarpet. Traditional and antique jewellery.
  10. GRT Thangamaligai,, South Usman, T'Nagar and Anna Nagar near 11th main road.
  11. Prince Jewellery, Panagal Park, T'Nagar
  12. Aarthi Thanga Maligai, 60 East Kalamandapam Road, Royapuram. Gold for reasonable prices.
  13. B.B Jewellery, 6/127 Arcot Road, Porur. Specializing in gold.
  14. KANISHK, Usman Road, T'Nagar. Great value for money & wide range.
  15. Saravana Stores Thanga Naga Maaligai, Usman Road, T'Nagar.
  16. GSK Thanga Naga Maaligai, Ariyalur, TamilNadu

Eat
Text Box: Hot soup stand outside Santhome, ChennaiChennai has numerous restaurants, offering an assortment of cuisine. The beach restaurants are well maintained and serve great food during the evenings. The eat outs in Chennai range from budget, midrange and to up-market. There are swanky star quality restaurants, plain open traditional vegetarian or non vegetarian restaurants- where you share a table with strangers, street stalls, tea kadais, fast food centers, western fast food centers, food courts, coffee shops, bakeries to exclusive specialty establishments. Vegetarian restaurants serve tiffin and vegetarian meals. There are also a number of restaurants that serve a variety of Tamil, Andhra and Kerala vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare. Many of these restaurants have nowadays diversified and offer other Indian and Indianized Chinese dishes as well. Usually the check includes a service charge, written next to 'S.C.' If no service charge is added, it is customary to leave a moderate tip.

All these budget eateries serve only vegetarian food and are very cheap.

  1. Eat N Drink, 570-N, Anna Salai, Teynampet (next to Courtyard Marriott). South Indian fast food, from masala dosas to uttapam and pongal. Fast, cheap, tasty and hygienic. Rs.20-40.  
  2. Geetha Café , Pondy Bazaar. South Indian tiffin.
  3. Hot Chips, T.Nagar and Anna Nagar for budget priced South Indian tiffin, including North Indian chat (snack) items.
  4. Kebab Junction, NV, opp. to express avenue, near Melody theater, Royapettah
  5. Karpagambal Mess, Opposite the Kapaleeswarar temple, Mylapore. Do visit this place if you have a craving for cheap and authentic South Indian Food.
  6. Komalas, Kodambakkam High Road. South Indian fast food.
  7. Mansuk's, T.Nagar. Best for Bombay Chat, Lassi and an unlimited Gujarati Thali.
  8. Murugan Idli Kadai. Very famous for their idlis and the many accompaniments which comes with the idlis. This chain had very humble beginnings but their fame is sky rocketing. There are other branches throughout the city.
  9. Palimar, Parsn Complex, Anna Salai (Mount Road). South Indian cuisine.
  10. Rathna Cafe, Triplicane. For fluffy hot idlis, piping hot vadai, delicious pongal dripping in ghee and accompanied by sambhar. Quality maintained for more than 100 years. Recently opened at Thiruvanmiyur, opposite the RTO. More expensive than Murugan Idli shop.
  11. Sangeetha, chain of vegetarian restaurants. Sangeeta offers a mix of good-quality and tasty South Indian, North Indian, and "Indo-Chinese" cuisine at very reasonable prices. A chain restaurant, including one shop at the intersection of Valluvar Kottam High Road and Nungambakkam High Road in Nungambakkam.
  12. Saravana Bhavan, Probably Chennai's best known restaurant chain, with 25 branches in Chennai itself (incl. one next to Kapaleeswarar Temple). Pure vegetarian Indian food with high standards of hygiene.
  13. Sanjeevanam, A popular vegetarian "health" restaurant that cooks its foods using ayurvedic principles. The food is truly delicious, and the concept is that they are cooked with low amounts of oil, using healthy ingredients. The chain also features ayurvedic and yogic classes. Located at New No. 97, Old No.45, Nungambakkam High Road in Nungambakkam, Chennai; phone number 044 - 4549 0324. Adyar location: Old No.24, New No.76, B. Venkatarathinam Nagar, Adyar.
  14. Sri Krishna Sweets, Spencers Plaza, Adayar, Anna Salai (Mount Road),(also at MG Road, Shastri nagar). Indian sweets & salad bar. Visit "Sri Krishna" for a unique assortment of North Indian "chat" (snack) items.
  15. The Spice Box, Thiruvanmyur, +91 44 4304 2365. Lunch deliveries and gourmet outdoor catering. Their concept of a wholesome, well packed and innovative lunch / dinner in 6 options is great to try out.
  16. Vasantha Bhavan chain of vegetarian restaurants, one near Vadapalani Bus stand titled Vasantha Bhavan.
  17. Karthik Tiffin Center, Next to Hot Chips, 2nd Avenue, Anna Nagar.

Mid-range

Chinese

  1. Dynasty, Harrisons Hotel, (Non-Vegetarian) 315, Valluvarkottam High Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai. Good quality Chinese-Indian cuisine Table Reservations Tele: +91 44 52222777

Mexican

  1. Texas Fiesta, (Non-Vegetarian) # 17/2, Shaffee Mohammed Road, off Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Chennai 600006. It is owned and operated by a Tex Mex aficionado who fell in love with this great cuisine while in the USA. Favorite dishes include chicken wings, cream of leeks and potato soup, chicken fajita and grilled tenderloin steak apart from burritos, quesadillas and tortillas. Meal for two would cost about Rs 500. Table Reservations Tele: +91 44 43087882

Multi-cuisine

  1. Amethyst, (Vegetarian),Sundar Mahal, Padmavathi Road, Jeypore Colony, Gopalapuram, Chennai. +91 44 2820 3582. Garden and patio cafe and restaurant with a mix of western (pastas, burgers) and Indian fare. Cuisines served by Amethyst are Coffee and International. It is a nice, cozy, romantic place to chill out on weekends. Their cuisine is nice and so is their interiors. Its a colonial house turned into a restaurant. Highly recommendable. Table Reservations Tele: +91 44 28353581
  2. Curry House: (Non-Vegetarian), 2, Block AB, 11th Avenue, Anna Nagar, Chennai. Hyderabadi, Chettinad, and Kerala delicacies. Good tandoori fare of the Non-Veg variety popular among the punjabi's and found all over Delhi is also offered. Open: 12PM to 3PM and 7PM to 11PM. Price range: Meals for two around Rs.350. Table Reservations Tele: +91 44 42611167, 42611168

North Indian

  1. Dhaba Express, (Non-Vegetarian) 9, Cenotaph Road, Teynampet, Chennai and Nungambakkam High Road, Chennai. Cuisines served by Dhaba Express are North Indian. They serve Chicken Tikka Masala, Mutton Rogan Josh, Tandoori Aloo (starter), Naans and Roomali Rotis. Valet Parking. Open: 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM, 6:30 PM to 1:30 AM. Price range: Meals for two Rs.500. Table Reservations Tele: +91 44 2432 8213.
  2. ECR Dhaba, (Non-Vegetarian) 9/76, Kunnukadu, East Coast Road, Near Muttukadu Boat House, Chennai. Cuisines served by ECR Dhaba are Punjabi Table Reservations Tele: +91 44 27472943, +91 098407 04050. Open: 11:00 AM to 11:45 PM

Seafood

  1. Coastline, (Non-Vegetarian) 118, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai. South Indian Seafood. Freshly done Interiors, slow service but delicious food. Crab Rasam, Prawn or Fish Biryani. Vide variety of sea food offerings. Must try place. Price range: Meals for two Rs.600. Table Reservations Tele: +91 44 28251128

South Indian:

  • Aiwo, (Vegetarian), 7 Rosy Towers, Nungambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai. Fusion and health foods. Aiwo features a 14-course meal served on a conveyer belt that moves around the room. Various dishes served are supposed to be cooked in olive oil. Healthy tasty food for the health conscious. Resonably priced at Rs.199 per meal inclusive of taxes.Table Reservations Tele:+91 044 66514241
  • Amaravathi: (Non-Vegetarian), 1 Cathedral Road, Gopalpuram, Chennai. It serves South Indian sea food cuisines and is known for its spicy Andhra food. Their famous Andhra meals, chicken and mutton biryani, Vazahapoo and Keerai Vadi are a must try. Wide range of delicacies includes chilly chicken, chili paneer, momos, soups, burgers, rolls, etc. Punjabi dishes like kadhai chicken, butter chicken, daal makhni, roti, butter naan, paneer butter masala, allu matar etc. Special fish prawns and Amaravathi chicken are the main dishs of the restaurant. Price: Avrg. for 2 persons Rs. 500. Seating: 135 covers. Valet Parking and Take away. Open: Seven days a week. 11AM to 11PM. Table Reservations Tele: +91 044 28116416, 28110305
  • Amma, (Non-Vegetarian), No 1 Dr. Giri Road, Near Bharathi Raja Hospital, T Nagar, Chennai 600017, Known for authentic Chettinadu cuisine. Price range: Meals for 2 around Rs.350. Open: 11.30AM to 3.30PM and 7PM to 10.30PM. Table Reservations Tele: Mr.Chinniah +91 044 28340242, 42122176

Stay safe
Chennai is generally a safer area of India in terms of crime, although pickpocketing, muggings, and robberies sporadically occur. Keep your doors and windows shut and locked at night and do not carry or display large amounts of cash if possible.

It is advisable for women, especially unaccompanied ones, to dress modestly and limit their interaction with unfamiliar local men. Foreigners are generally overcharged by autorickshaws simply because they are ignorant of the prevailing fares. It is necessary to confirm whether the driver knows the exact destination and to fix the fare before boarding. 'Autos', as autorickshaws are known in Chennai, are notorious for fleecing customers, tourists and locals alike.

Be alert to your surroundings and watch where you step, especially if you get caught in a large crowd where it is difficult to look at what is in front of you. Cross streets extreme carefully as traffic is generally heavy. On major roads, use the underground crossings (locally called "subways"). Traffic signals are frequently ignored by drivers and pedestrians alike, and it is not at all advisable for tourists to try driving in Chennai.

 

Event Venue
The Sheraton Chola Hotel Chennai is offering us deluxe rooms, twin sharing or single, inclusive of taxes and all meals like breakfast, lunch and optional dinner:

US $140 per day  - twin sharing with full board (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
US $130 per day  - twin sharing with breakfast and lunch but without dinner.
US $130 per day  - single occupancy with full board.
US $120 per day  - single occupancy with breakfast and lunch but without dinner.

However, complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water will be available for players and officials throughout the championships. Similar arrangements are being made for transportation to selected destinations in and around the city. Daily newspapers, fruit basket, internet in the rooms and paid wi-fi in designated areas are also being negotiated as added facilities. BFI shall arrange complimentary to and fro airport transfers besides arranging a few dinners hosted by various sponsors, so that your only expenses besides the entry fee and air travel would probably be the  hotel room rent of US$70/- per person per day on a twin sharing basis.


The location of the hotel is considered to be just about central to everything. It is only two kilometers from downtown area and twelve kilometers from the airport and five kilometers from the railroad station. Named after a celebrated dynasty, the hotel offers visitors royal treatment in its 90 spacious guest rooms and suites. Take in the view, watch in-room movies, and enjoy a most restful night.

With international cuisine, quiet spaces for meetings and family occasions, and beautiful banquet areas for conferences and celebrations, this hotel provides all the services a busy traveler might need, as well as some which you may not have thought of as yet. The hotel management wishes to extend their warm welcome in experiencing their great service.

Sheraton Chola Hotel, 10 Cathedral Road, Chennai - 600 086, Tamil Nadu, India.
Phones: + 91 (044) 2811-0101
Fax:      + 91 (044) 2811-0202
E-mail: reservations.sheratonchola@itcwelcomgroup.in
Website: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=424

 

 Facilities

Services

              • Concierge desk
              • Fitness facilities
              • Internet access in public areas - surcharge
              • Internet access - wireless
              • Limo or Town Car service available
              • Tour assistance

Business & Event

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Business center
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Room service (24 hours)

 Rooms (all rooms include)

                • Air conditioning
                • Coffee/tea maker
                • Cribs (infant beds) available
                • Desk
                • Direct-dial phone
                • Hair dryer
                • In-room safe
                • Iron/ironing board
                • Minibar
                • Pay movies
                • Refrigerator
                • Satellite television service
                • Wireless Internet access

General

  • Bar/lounge;
  • Restaurant(s) in hotel;
  • Swimming pool - outdoor

Dining
Sheraton Chola Hotel has a restaurant on site. 24-hour room service is available.

Recreation
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool and a fitness facility.

Registration

  • Please find below the format in which the participant/s should fill in the details :

S no.

Guest Name

Dbl/Single occupancy

Check: in

Arrival Time

Check: out

Departure time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  • This form should then be mailed to the reservation e-mail address given above with a cc to meghna.rao@itcwelcomgroup.in
  • The subject line for the mail that is being sent to the hotel should read “BFI tournament booking”