CHENNAI

One square mile of grassland, forest, and even a lake in the heart of Chennai, the park is a green oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Home to rare and endangered indigenous animals like the horned blackbuck antelope and the chital, or spotted deer, Guindy provides a welcome respite for weary urban dwellers as well as a conservation home for myriad species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and flora.

As a center of arts and culture, it’s no surprise that Chennai is home to a number of organizations, institutes, and and academies devoted to the development and preservation of South India’s rich artistic traditions. One of the most prestigious is the Kalakshetra Foundation, founded in 1936. Catch a performance of Carnatic music or dance and immerse yourself in Chennai’s ancient culture.

Tier upon tier of towering vibrant sculptures rise toward the sky on the gopuram, or tower, of one of Chennai’s most iconic temples, dating back to the 7th century. Blue-skinned deities and noble heroes cover every conceivable surface in this notable example of Dravidian architecture. Explore the surrounding Mylapore neighborhood, the oldest part of the city, home to a number of impressive architectural sites and temples, including the Madhava Perumal Temple.

Since the late 19th century, Victoria Technical Institute’s mission has been to preserve and promote the enormous pool of native South Indian artisan talent. From delicately embroidered fine goods to sumptuously ornamented wood furnishings, the work of more than a thousand craftspeople awaits exploration.