Chennai (formerly known as Madras) is the capital of Tamil Nadu in south India. The city is known as the "Gateway to South India." It is one of the main cities in India.

Chennai is a major healthcare destination in India. The city also attracts a lot of foreign patients. One of the main reasons for that is the presence of many expert doctors here.

You can find many people coming from other countries to Chennai for treatment. It is a favorite place for those coming for treatment from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius.

History of Chennai

Ancient rulers of the region had strong ties and influences all around South East Asia. One can see the influence of this region in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, etc., even now.

The city saw fights between the Dutch, English, and French during the 16th and 17th centuries. The English finally took complete control in the middle of the 17th century. Madras (as it was known then) was the capital of Madras's presidency, which covered most of South India.

Best Hospitals in Chennai

Chennai is one of the largest cities in the country, with a population of around 8 million.  There are many top-notch hospitals in Chennai. Some of them are

• Apollo Hospitals
• MGM Hospital
• Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre
• SIMS Hospital
• Rajan Dental
• Apollo Proton Cancer Centre
• GEM Hospital
• Vijaya Hospital
• Kauvery Hospital

How can I reach Chennai?

Chennai International Airport (IATA code: MAA) is the fourth busiest airport in India. There are direct flights from Chennai to more than 30 cities outside India. For those who like to travel by sea, the Chennai seaport is very popular with cruise ships.

For travel within India, the Chennai railway station is a critical link in the Indian railway network.  

There is both public and private transport for traveling within Chennai city. Buses, metro rail, and suburban rail are the primary forms of public transportation. Chennai Metro is the third-largest metro system in India.

You can always use online taxi aggregator companies for private transport.

Living in Chennai

Tamil is the local language in the city. However, you can easily manage with English in Chennai.

The city can accommodate all types of budgets in a wide variety of hotels and serviced apartments. The cost of a hotel room per night ranges from 15 USD for a 2-star hotel room to 250 USD for premium 5-star hotels.

Chennai's weather can be hot and humid. The hottest months are April, May, and June, when temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The temperature will be in the high 30s in other months as well.

Things to do in Chennai

The city is famous for its beaches, temples, and historical centers. Some of the main places to visit are Kapaleeshwar Temple, Marina Beach, and Fort St. George.

Mahabalipuram, which is around 60 kilometers from the city, is a UNESCO heritage site.

Chennai has a strong cultural history and is home to many renowned musicians. If you are a fan of classical dance and music, you will like the Festival of Dance and Music. It happens every year in December and is one of the biggest cultural events in the world.