India has modern cities, historical towns, spectacular landscapes, and what not! Chennai, also called as the ‘Gateway to South India’, is a cultural, economic and educational centre of this enigmatic country. The destination is well known for its touristy nature and has magnificent monuments that shed light upon historical and interesting stories of the past. We have mentioned some of these time-honoured structures below.

Fort St. George

Opened to the public in 1948, the Fort St- George is considered to be the first establishment of the British in India. Built as a trading post, it later served as the origin of the modern Indian Army. Fort St. George is split into two sections: St. Mary’s Church and the Fort Museum. Post independence, the Archaeological Survey of India has declared Fort St. George as a protected structure.

Ripon Building

Ripon Building, built in 1913, is the seat of Chennai Corporation (Madras Corporation). It is painted in white as a symbol of Indo-Saracenic architecture. This royal building is rectangular in shape with a 43 metre tower and a 2.5 metre clock. This clock has a mechanical key system, which is checked daily. Beyond that, four bells form an essential part of the monument. Entry is restricted though.

Anna Memorial

Also called the ‘Anna Samadhi’, the Anna Memorial was made to pay tribute to the great Dravidian leader Arinzar Annadurai and ex- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, C. N. Annadurai who was cremated here in 1969. Children can entertain themselves at the fabulous parks and aquariums here.

Thousand Lights Mosque

The Thousand Lights Mosque is a revered place of worship for Shias. It has derived its name from the 1000 lights, which illuminated the assembly hall. Regarded as one of the largest in the nation, this monument has been erected in medieval architectural style. It displays multiple domes and spearing minarets, which are roughly 64 metres tall. It witnesses a huge crowd during the yearly Muharram festival.

Valluvar Kottam

Valluvar Kottam is dedicated to the renowned Tamil poet, philosopher, and saint, Thiruvalluvar, who wrote the Thirukkural over 2,000 years ago. Some of them are inscribed in the front hall corridors. The main auditorium situated within the temple can accommodate 4000 people. Visitors are allowed to click photographs.

India is an incredible country, where you can enjoy diverse cultural practices and traditions at one place. Colourful festivals are celebrated throughout the year.

Have a look at some of the top festivals of India that you can celebrate in May.

Chithirai Festival

Chithirari Festival is celebrated every year in Madurai’s famous temple. Madurai is a small town just 500 metres away from Chennai. This year, the festival will last from 21st April to 11th May. People of Madurai welcome the decorated chariot carrying idols of the Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar with immense zeal. One can listen to drumbeats and enjoy coconut water and other drinks offered by locals. Flowers are spread all over the way and on the idols throughout the procession. Don’t miss to attend the trade exhibition and fair.

Moatsu Festival

Moatsu is one of the most well-liked festivals of Nagaland. It is celebrated for three days. This year you can attend the celebrations from 1st to 3rd May in Chuchuyimlang village of Nagaland. The Moatsu festival is celebrated by the Nagas, especially by the Ao tribe of the state to seek the blessings of the almighty. The entire state is filled with the vibrant colours of festivities. This grand extravaganza includes serving of rice beer to everyone. Tributes are paid to the traditional heroes of the state by singing songs in their honour. The local astrologer makes forecasts about the good and bad days for the village.

Ooty Summer Festival

Ooty Summer Festival is going to held during the second and third weeks of May. Enjoy the picturesque splendour of beautiful hills and fresh air of the Nilgiris that will give you relaxing and soothing time to spend with your friends and family. A flower show will be showcased that will include the attractive floral arrangements, vegetable carvings, flower paintings and lots more. Besides, participate in rose show, fruit show, dog show, spice show and vegetable show.

International Flower Festival

International Flower Festival attracts thousands of tourists every year to explore the beautiful aura and surroundings of Gangtok. Visitors from across the globe visit this festival with great enthusiasm. The festival is organised at the Governor’s residence in Gangtok. It is celebrated for 30 days, and this year it will be held from 1st to 30th May. Orchids, roses, trees, ferns, creepers, and climbers will be displayed during the show. Adventure seekers can also enjoy river rafting. One can enjoy Yak Safari, seminars about indigenous plants and other activities too.