5 Offbeat Places to Visit in Chennai

City of Chennai in every way is synonymous to tradition basking in light of modernity. This city is indeed a diverse one, with high sounding titles for a politician to Jasmine flowers dominating the city air. Chennai has and will always be a testimony to British rule; this certainly has given unique dimension to this Southern Indian city. Quite a number of tourists flock this city but to experience it like a native, we have found five gems for you. And cherry on top, these are not the conventional ones!!

Little Mount Church

Who doesn’t crave for a spiritual introspection, especially when we are daunted by the hustle-bustle of city? This Church is seen as increasingly important as it is dedicated to St. Thomas, one of the disciples of Jesus.  This Church is true amalgamation of Portuguese and Dutch architecture; all the architecture lovers must give this place a visit. Those who wish to create a ‘safe haven’ for themselves; Little Mount Church is your go to place. Cave and spring that erupted from miraculous powers of St. Thomas are the major attractions. Spring is believed to be created when revered Saint stuck his rod against the rock when his devotees were suffering from major lacuna of water.  All those who witness to grab some panoramic views of Chennai’s impressive skyline, Hillock is your spot!

You can find this Church here

Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM

Theosophical Society

Although not really an unconventional site, but let us tell you, that it won’t disappoint you. All those who wish to be away from the hubbub of city life, should definitely stroll in the Huddleston Gardens of this society. True to its theory of theosophy, this society is dotted with a number of shrines such as Hindu and Buddhist temples, Zoroastrian shrines, Church, and a Mosque.  For those whom Bird watching is the best possible way to rile away their time, these Gardens are going to be your favourite. Avid readers and those whose personality has a philosophical inclination, library and research centre are surely going to delight you!

You can find these serene gardens here

Timings – Opening & Closing: Monday – Friday: 8.30 AM – 4.00 PM, Saturday: 8.30 AM – 4.00 PM, Sunday: 12.00 AM – 12.00 AM, Public Holidays: 12.00 AM – 12.00 AM

Kalakshetra

Who doesn’t want to visit excellence? You do, right, and then Kalakshetra is your holy abode.  Kalakshetra as an academy has been recognised for promoting Indian culture in the best possible way, especially Gandharva music and Bharatnatyam. If you wish to witness the authentic Kanchipuram weaving tradition then you’re in for a treat.  This centre’s Kalakshetra sarees are known for innovative designs and attractive colour scheme. A fifteen-step made Kalamkari material is indeed a fascinating process to watch.  Kalkshetra is the perfect place for all those who have penchant for cultures.

To get a glance, you can go here.

Timings: 8AM -5:30PM (Closed on weekends)

Manjal

This enigmatic city has a wide variety of options to shop from, but if you wish to do some charity along with shopping, Manjal is the perfect spot.  Are you looking to buy something unique and classy?  Number of options at Manjal are going to sort you right through.  Manjal is led by a MRM cultural foundation, a non-profit organisation that works to promote rural crafts, traditions and textiles.  This store offers traditional Konkani palm leaf basket, colourful Kottans and most importantly Athangudi, tiles made from white sand and cement adorned with exquisite designs.

To shop, you can visit here.

Timings: 10AM-5:30PM (Closed on Sunday)

Amethyst Café

Nature lover or not, we all love Boutique Cafes.  Entrance surrounded by lush green verdant, cobbled street indeed looks very inviting.  With stylish and cosy sitting, the ambience looks indeed very ‘British’.  Caramel custard topped with pineapple, Mexican Cheese Toast and the Steak are a must have. Apart from serving, lip-smacking food, this place has 2 shops named ‘Blooms’ and ‘Upstairs’.  The former sells exotic flowers and bespoke flower arrangements while the latter has exclusive collection of accessories, clothing and jewelry.

To get a peek, this is the location.

Timings: 10AM-11:30PM

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