Chennai

Dusty, crowded and polluted, you might not take to Chennai at the first glance. But persist, and you will discover the city's many treasures. Offering delectable cuisine, excellent shopping and 500-years worth of monuments, the city will always have your hands full.

Settled by the British in 1639 at the site of a small fishing village, the city gradually grew to incorporate surrounding villages in its terrain. Colonial struggles between European powers, on the turf of India, lead to the city being home to Raj-era structures, Portuguese Churches and ancient Hindu temples. One of the biggest attractions is the Marina Beach, the world's second longest city beach.

Another plus point for Chennai is the variety of authentic Tamil food you find here - cheap, spicy and scrumptious. Look beyond the cliches and discover the Chettinad, the Tamil Vegetarian Thali or the Tiffin. Chennai also offers delicious sweets and desserts.

Although Chennaiites will tell you time and again that Chennai shopping is much more than silk, dotted as it is with designer boutiques and hip malls, it is the silks that win you over. Tanjore paintings, antiques, silver jewellery studded with stones add to the shopping experience.

Chennai is also perfect as the focal point to start exploring rest of Tamil Nadu. Well connected to destinations across India, as well as internationally. The city has an airport that caters to domestic and international carriers and also has good inter-city transport facilities. With plenty to see in and around the Chennai, it is ideal for a seaside holiday.