Mylapore is not just a place, it is an experience. It is one of the oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods in Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, India. It is a melting pot of history, religion, culture, art, and cuisine.
Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, Mylapore has something for you. In this article, we will explore the best things to do in Mylapore and why you should visit this cultural heart of Chennai.
Mylapore Temples: A Glimpse into the Ancient and Sacred
Mylapore is home to some of the most magnificent and revered temples in Chennai. These temples are not only places of worship, but also showcases of the rich and diverse architectural and artistic heritage of Tamil Nadu. Here are some of the temples you must visit in Mylapore:
Kapaleeshwarar Temple:
This is the oldest and most famous temple in Mylapore, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. The temple dates back to the 7th century CE and is built in the Dravidian style of architecture.
The temple has a towering gopuram (gateway tower) that is adorned with colorful and intricate sculptures of gods and goddesses. The temple also has a large tank (pond) that is surrounded by pillared halls and shrines.
The temple is famous for its festivals, especially the Panguni Uthiram festival that is celebrated in March-April. During this festival, a huge chariot procession takes place around the streets of Mylapore, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists.
Ramakrishna Temple:
This is a modern and serene temple that commemorates the life and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, a 19th-century saint and mystic who is considered as one of the greatest spiritual masters of India. The temple has a white marble statue of Ramakrishna sitting on a lotus pedestal in the main hall. The temple also has a library, a bookstore, a museum, and a meditation hall. The temple is a place of peace, harmony, and wisdom, where you can learn about the universal message of Ramakrishna and his disciples.
Mundakaneeyaman Temple:
This is a rare and unique temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Matsya avatar, or fish incarnation. According to Hindu mythology, Vishnu took the form of a fish to save the world from a great flood. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Chennai and has a legend associated with it. It is said that once a king named Manu was performing a ritual in the river when he caught a small fish in his hands. The fish asked him to spare its life and promised to grant him a boon. The king agreed and put the fish in a jar. The fish grew bigger and bigger until it filled the jar.
The king then transferred it to a bigger vessel, then to a pond, then to a lake, and finally to the ocean. The fish then revealed itself as Vishnu and told the king that he was chosen to survive the impending flood. The fish instructed him to build a boat and take along with him all kinds of seeds, plants, animals, and sages. The fish also gave him a sacred thread that would tie his boat to its horn. When the flood came, the fish guided the boat to safety on top of a mountain. The temple is located near the spot where the boat landed and where Vishnu blessed Manu.
Tips for visiting Mylapore temples:
1. The temples are open from 6 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 9 pm daily.
2. There is no entry fee for visiting the temples, but donations are welcome.
3. You have to remove your shoes before entering the temples and leave them at the designated counters.
4. You have to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees while visiting the temples.
5. You have to respect the rules and customs of the temples and avoid taking photos or videos inside the sanctum sanctorum.
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Mylapore Churches: A Blend of Faith and History
Mylapore is not only known for its temples, but also for its churches. These churches reflect the colonial past and the cosmopolitan nature of Mylapore.
They are also examples of different styles and periods of architecture and art. Here are some of the churches you should see in Mylapore:
San Thome Basilica:
This is a majestic and historic church that houses the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. It is one of the three basilicas in the world that are built over the tomb of an apostle (the other two are St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and St. James’s Basilica in Spain).
The church was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later rebuilt by the British in the 19th century. The church has a Gothic style of architecture and a towering spire that can be seen from a distance. The church also has a museum, a library, and a gallery that display relics, paintings, and artifacts related to St. Thomas and the history of Christianity in India.
Luz Church:
This is a quaint and charming church that is one of the oldest churches in Chennai. It was built by the Portuguese in 1516 and is also known as the Church of Our Lady of Light. The church has a beautiful facade, stained glass windows, and paintings that depict scenes from the Bible and the life of St. Thomas. The church also has a cemetery that has some of the oldest tombstones in Chennai, dating back to the 17th century.
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple:
This is a popular and peaceful temple that is dedicated to Sai Baba, a 19th-century saint who is revered by both Hindus and Muslims. Sai Baba is known for his miracles, teachings, and humanitarian works. He preached the unity of all religions and the love of God and humanity. The temple has a marble statue of Sai Baba sitting on a throne in the main hall. The temple also has a meditation hall, a library, and a canteen that serves free meals to the devotees.
Mylapore Markets: A Taste of Tradition and Modernity
Mylapore is also a shopper’s paradise. It has a variety of markets that sell everything from clothes and accessories to books and electronics. You can find both traditional and modern items at reasonable prices. You can also enjoy some delicious street food while shopping. Here are some of the markets you should check out in Mylapore:
Luz Corner:
This is a bustling and lively market area that sells everything from clothes and accessories to books and electronics. It is a favorite spot for bargain hunters, street food lovers, and bookworms.
You can find some of the best deals on sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, antiques, DVDs, CDs, etc. You can also savor some of the best snacks like samosas, bajjis, chaat, ice cream, etc. You can also visit some of the famous bookstores like Giri Trading Agency, Higginbothams, etc.
Kutchery Road:
This is a vibrant and colorful street that is lined with flower vendors, fruit stalls, vegetable shops, and snack carts. It is a feast for the senses and a great place to buy fresh produce. You can find some of the most exotic and fragrant flowers like jasmine, lotus, rose, marigold, etc.
You can also find some of the most juicy and tasty fruits like mangoes, bananas, grapes, guavas, etc. You can also try some of the most mouth-watering snacks like idlis, dosas, vadas, etc.
Sundari Silks:
This is a renowned and elegant store that offers a wide range of silk sarees, fabrics, garments, and accessories. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves silk or wants to buy a souvenir.
You can find some of the finest quality and variety of silk products like Kanchipuram silk sarees, Banarasi silk sarees, Mysore silk sarees, silk salwar suits, silk kurtis, silk dupattas, silk stoles, silk bags, etc.
Mylapore Restaurants: A Treat for the Palate
Mylapore is also a food lover’s delight. It has a variety of restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can find both traditional and modern cuisines, as well as vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. You can also enjoy some of the most famous and authentic dishes of Tamil Nadu, especially the ones that originated in Mylapore. Here are some of the restaurants you should try in Mylapore:
Rayar’s Mess:
This is a legendary and iconic eatery that serves authentic South Indian breakfast and lunch dishes. It is famous for its idlis, dosas, vadas, pongal, sambar, chutney, filter coffee, etc. The place is simple and modest, but the food is delicious and satisfying.
The place is run by a family that has been in the business for over seven decades. The place is so popular that you may have to wait in a queue to get a seat, but it is worth it.
Anjappar:
This is a chain of restaurants that specializes in Chettinad cuisine, a spicy and flavorful style of cooking from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its chicken, mutton, fish, crab, prawn, biryani, etc.
The place is spacious and comfortable, with a traditional decor and ambiance. The service is quick and courteous, and the portions are generous.
Saravana Bhavan:
This is a chain of restaurants that offers vegetarian South Indian and North Indian dishes. It is popular for its thalis, parathas, chaats, sweets, etc. The place is clean and hygienic, with a modern and bright interior. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the prices are reasonable.
Mylapore Beaches: A Breath of Fresh Air
Mylapore is also a great place to enjoy some fresh air and scenic views. It has some of the most beautiful and relaxing beaches in Chennai. These beaches are a contrast to the urban and crowded environment of Mylapore.
They are also ideal for various activities like swimming, surfing, fishing, or picnicking. Here are some of the beaches you should visit in Mylapore:
Marina Beach:
This is the longest natural urban beach in India and one of the most visited places in Chennai. It offers a stunning view of the sunset, a refreshing breeze, and a lively atmosphere. You can walk along the sandy shore, play in the waves, or enjoy some fun rides at the amusement park.
You can also see some interesting sights like the lighthouse, the aquarium, the statues of famous personalities, etc. You can also taste some of the best seafood at the stalls along the beach.
Elliot’s Beach:
This is a clean and calm beach that is located near the Besant Nagar area. It is a popular spot for jogging, walking, cycling, and relaxing. You can admire the beauty of nature and watch the fishermen at work. You can also visit some of the nearby attractions like the Ashtalakshmi Temple, the Velankanni Church, the Annai Velankanni Shrine, etc.
Thiruvanmiyur Beach:
This is a serene and secluded beach that is located near the Thiruvanmiyur area. It is a great place for swimming, surfing, fishing, and picnicking. You can enjoy the tranquility and privacy of this beach without any disturbance. You can also witness some of the most amazing sunrises and sunsets at this beach.
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Mylapore is a cultural heart of Chennai that offers something for everyone. It is a place where you can experience the ancient and the modern, the sacred and the secular, the traditional and the contemporary.
It is a place where you can discover the beauty and diversity of Tamil Nadu’s culture, history, art, and cuisine. It is a place where you can have fun, learn, and explore.
If you are looking for a memorable and enriching trip to Chennai, you should not miss visiting Mylapore. You will be amazed by what you will see and do in this fascinating neighborhood.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article about Mylapore. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave them in the comments section below. If you want to book your trip to Mylapore or any other destination in India or abroad, please visit our website.
