Chennai is Tamil Nadu’s coastal capital and one of India’s financial, cultural and tourism hubs. Attractions include the city’s beaches, museums, shopping areas and historical sites, particularly the centrally located Kapaleeshwar Temple – a historical shrine to the goddess Shiva, featuring gaudily decorative gopurams (towers) covered with colourful carvings – and the group of ancient rock-carved temples at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located roughly 60 kilometres from the city centre. Also of interest is the Guindy National Park, which occupies nearly three square kilometres of greenery in the city centre and is home to an array of birds, reptiles and (mainly smallish) mammals.
Where Adyar River joins the Bay of Bengal stands the Leela Palace Chennai. Set on 4.8 acres of land, it is the only seafront 5-star hotel in Chennai. Drawn from the inspiration of Chettinad Dynasty, the architecture of the hotel exudes regal opulence. The 11-storey hotel, which is situated close to the central business district and local attractions, features 326 rooms and suites and is equipped with world-class amenities, with luxurious meeting and conference centres.
