10 Things to do in Mylapore That You Shouldn't Miss

Probably the most magnificent and prominent reminder of Chennai's colonial lineage, the San Thome Church bears a colossal amount of history since A.D. 52, the year when St. Thomas traveled to India, though the Roman Catholic basilica was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. It was then rebuilt by the British in 1893. The imposing structure reaches a height of 155 feet and emanates peace and architectural splendor with its tall spires over the tomb of the saint. The sea makes a wonderful backdrop to the pristine white structure. The San Thome Church is considered one of the pilgrimages for people around the world.

The present temple, dedicated only recently in a joyous three-day ceremony, represents three hundred years of faith and devotion.

If you are looking to soak in the culture of Chennai, the Mylapore Tank and Mandavali area should be at the top of your list. One of the oldest residential parts of Chennai, the tank is a part of the seventh century Kapaleeshwarar Temple. This is also the place where the famous Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar, was born. If you are spending a few days in Chennai, you will understand the importance of this state figure from the number of references made in signs, names of shops and statues. The quintessential travel phrase, "overwhelming sights, sounds, smells," fits perfectly in this area. The narrow streets around the temple are buzzing with activities. Flower sellers, archaic shops selling temple offering ingredients and such line the roads leading to the temple. A photographer’s dream, this place is best explored in the morning, the chosen time to pay homage at the temple.