Chennai City

Krishnavillasam - The Home Of Classics

2013-11-15T19:26:00.000-08:00

ADDRESS: 11, 1st Floor, Haddows Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai

Phone : 044 28215568, 044 28215569

For having the experience of eating hyped veg food, this is the best place. Located on the busy Haddows road, next to Sony showroom, this place is pretty prominent and very easy to find. Valet service is prompt and we had nil waiting time and that was good. Once you climb a flight of stairs, you enter into a small waiting area with a few chairs.Enter the Main room it is complete white effect (white tables, chairs, walls) which is very pleasing to the eye. They have hung big frame pictures of Lord Krishna with his gopikas - adding more meaning to their tag line "Home of Classics" I think. The tables and chairs are comfortably placed, don't expect a whole lot of privacy here on a crowded day. Cutlery was square and rectangular white plates and with the silver, the set looked quite contemporary

Menu :Now comes the Menu card which is very impressive with beautiful and enticing pictures.But is a very very exhaustive one which runs into close to 25 odd pages.One would get really confused if you do not choose which cuisine.The menu lists the most loved South Indian foods like dosa, idli, puttu etc., in classic and signature avatars. Alongside are some North Indian dishes and Chinese. Which I was hesitant in choosing

You can Get the Menu from Zomato : http://www.zomato.com/chennai/krishnavillasam-the-home-of-classics-nungambakkam/menu#tabtop

Food :

1. Rs 225 for Krishnavilasam Sapadu was KICK ASS, given the current going rates of Thaalis. The taste is not excellent but it is good value for money

2. Ordered KrishnaVillasam Special Fried rice which is really good ,first time I saw fried frice mixed with tofu and so much vegetables

3. Chilly panner is excellent and matched well with the Veg fried rice

4. Tomato soup was disappointing

5. Tom YAm Vegetable soup was very salty and it was pathetic

6. All the south Indian , North Indian and basic chinese dishes are worth to have ( Chinese dish need a mention to reduce the salt .)

7. Dessert - the mango payasam was below average and fried icecream was superb

8. Singapore noodles where normal noodles but the taste was good

Quantity : Main dish have a good quantity but the side dish I think for the cost it is less

Thumbs up for exploring the breakfast variety but what needs immediate attention is excess usage of oil and butter in a couple of dishes which could be avoided to improve upon perfection.The service was attentive and food was good. Would love to go back for the south tiffin items like the dosa,pongal,idly etc

Costs 600 for table of 2!

Overall 3.5/5
Service 4/5
Value for money 3/5
Food 3/5
Ambience 4/5

Chennai Suburban Railway---Commuters Gift

2010-11-23T17:03:00.000-08:00

Chennai suburban railway is a commuter rail system in the Indian city of Chennai (Madras) operated by the Southern Railway. Chennai has a complex railway network. The system uses Electrical Multiple Units (EMU) operating on Alternating Current (AC) drawn from over-head cables through the catenary system.

The Suburban trains and MTC are the lifelines for travelling in chennai, The suburban trains are generally reliable and fast. The frequency of suburban trains is generally good and it is advisable to take a first class ticket during peak hours. Trains offer a reliable alternative to quickly reach your destination when compared to buses which might get trapped in traffic jams .

The train Timing, seasonal tickets and fares can be found in Fare and Timing .Seasonal tickets are available for daily travellers which can be purchased monthly or 3 months once which works out cheaper . The trains provide 2 classes : 1st class(First Class) and 2nd class(Second Class). 2nd class are crowded during peak hour and are very cheap compared to 1st class .1st class is generally not crowded but is costly for a days travel. The compartment difference is first class has cushion seats and compartments have slashes in the top with FIRST class written in bold and are less crowded ,this helps in distinguishing. Minimum fare is 6Rs. People traveling from airport can board in Trisulam and follows the South line given below .Tickets can be procured in respective station ,follow the chart below for the Trains. The fare in Chennai suburban trains is the lowest in the country and you don't have to compromise comfort for the meager amount that you pay as in other Indian metros.

Note: Remember to take ticket before you enter the stations. First class is expensive for 1 day ,travel Via seasonal passes in First Class works out economical . Please dont get in First Class compartment with second class ticket or pass.Fine is 300Rs for getting in to First class without appropriate ticket.

North Line [210 km]

Stations: Chennai Central MMC - Basin Bridge - Korukkupet - Tondiarpet - Tondiarpet Yard - Tiruvottiyur - Wimco Nagar - Kathivakkam - Ennore - Athipattu Pudhunagar - Athipattu - Nandiambakkam - Minjur - Anupambattu - Ponneri - Kavaraipettai - Gummidipoondi - Elavur - Arambakkam - Tada (AP) - Sullurpeta (AP) - Gudur(AP) - Nellore (AP) - Bitragunta (AP)

Suburban service terminates at Sullurpeta (AP).
The MEMU service terminates at Bitragunta (AP).
Few trains operate between Chennai Beach and Sullurpeta via Royapuram and Washermanpet.

South Line [163 km]

Stations: Chennai Beach - Chennai Fort - Chennai Park - Chennai Egmore - Chetpet - Nungambakkam - Kodambakkam - Mambalam - Saidapet - Guindy - St. Thomas Mount - Pazhavanthangal - Meenambakkam - Trisulam - Pallavaram - Chromepet - Tambaram Sanatorium - Tambaram - Perungalathur - Vandalur - Urapakkam - Guduvancheri - Potheri - Kattangulathur - Maraimalai Nagar Kamarajar - Singaperumal Koil - Paranur - Chengalpattu - Tirumani - Ottivakkam - Padalam - Karunguzhi - Madurantakam - Pakkam - Melmaruvathur - Acharapakkam - Tozhuppedu - Karasangal - Olakur - Panchalam - Tindivanam - Mailam - Perani - Vikravandi - Mundiyampakkam - Villupuram

Suburban service terminates at Chengalpattu.
A EMU service operates between Beach - Villupuram which goes along the suburban tracks till Chengalpattu and on the main line after that till Villupuram.

South West Line [122.71 km]

The Beach Chengalpattu section is parallel to but completely separate from the long-distance tracks of Indian Railways. The Trisulam station on this line is 100m from the Chennai International Airport terminal. This line first opened as an electrified suburban rail line in 1930.

Stations: Chennai Beach - Chennai Fort - Chennai Park - Chennai Egmore - Chetpet - Nungambakkam - Kodambakkam - Mambalam - Saidapet - Guindy - St. Thomas Mount - Pazhavanthangal - Meenambakkam - Trisulam - Pallavaram - Chromepet - Tambaram Sanatorium - Tambaram - Perungalathur - Vandalur - Urapakkam - Guduvancheri - Potheri - Kattangulathur - Maraimalai Nagar Kamarajar - Singaperumal Koil - Paranur - Chengalpattu - Villiambakkam - Palur - Palayasivaram - Walajabad - Nathapettai - Kanchipuram - Tirumalpur - Thakolam - Arakkonam

Suburban electric trains on this route, terminate at Tirumalpur station.
Tirumalpur - Arakkonam section being electrified.

West Line [213 km]

Chennai Central MMC - Basin Bridge - Vyasarpadi Jeeva - Perambur - Perambur Carriage Works - Perambur Loco Works - Villivakkam - Korattur - Pattaravakkam - Ambattur - Tirumullaivayil - Annanur - Avadi - Hindu College - Pattabiram -Thirunindravur - Veppampattu - Sevvapet Road - Putlur - Tiruvallur - Egattur - Kadambattur - Mosur - Puliyamangalam - Arakkonam - Sholinghur - Walajah Road - Tiruvalam - Sevur - Katpadi - Gudiyattam - Ambur - Vinnamangalam - Vaniyambadi - Kettandapatti - Jolarpet

Suburban service terminates at Arakkonam.
MEMU service operates between Arakkonam and Jolarpet.

West North Line [151 km]

Services first began on this line in 1985.
Stations: Chennai Central MMC - Basin Bridge - Vyasarpadi Jeeva - Perambur - Perambur Carriage Works - Perambur Loco Works - Villivakkam - Korattur - Pattaravakkam - Ambattur - Tirumullaivayil - Annanur - Avadi - Hindu College - Pattabiram -Thirunindravur - Veppampattu - Sevvapet Road - Putlur - Tiruvallur - Egattur - Kadambattur - Senjipanambakkam - Manavur - Thiruvalangadu - Mosur - Puliyamangalam - Arakkonam - Tiruttani - Nagari - Puttur - Renigunta - Tirupati
Suburban service terminate at Tiruttani.
MEMU service terminate at Tirupati (AP).
Few trains operate between Chennai Beach and Tiruttani. The section from Chennai Beach till Vyasarpadi covers a distance of 5.64 km via Royapuram and Washermanpet stations.

West South Line [290 km]

Main article: West South Line, Chennai Suburban
Chennai Beach - Royapuram - Washermanpet - Vyasarpadi Jeeva - Perambur - Perambur Carriage Works - Perambur Loco Works - Villivakkam - Korattur - Pattaravakkam - Ambattur - Tirumullaivayil - Annanur - Avadi - Hindu College - Pattabiram -Thirunindravur - Veppampattu - Sevvapet Road - Putlur - Tiruvallur - Egattur - Kadambattur - Senjipanambakkam - Manavur - Thiruvalangadu - Mosur - Puliyamangalam - Arakkonam - Katpadi - Vellore Cantt.

Suburban service terminates at Arakkonam.
MEMU service terminates at Vellore Cantonment station.
The section from Vellore Cantonment till Villupuram is under gauge conversion and being electrified.

New Lines

The following new lines have been proposed in the Second Master Plan by CMDA as a long-term Urban transportation Scheme[1]

Avadi — Sriperumbudur — Kanchipuram
Saidapet — Sriperumbudur — Kanchipuram (Partly Elevated)
Sriperumbudur — Oragadam — Chengalpattu
Kelambakkam — Vandalur
St.Thomas Mount — Porur

New Lines proposed in CTS(Comprehensive Transportation Study)

The following new lines have been proposed in the Comprehensive Transportation Study of the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority.[2] These lines will provide a circumferential travel network for the city.

Perungudi — Mamallapuram
Mamallapuram — Chengalpattu
Chengalpattu — Tiruvallur
Tiruvallur — Gummidipundi

Barbeque Nation --Barbeque food destination

2010-05-21T01:16:00.000-07:00

Address:Shri Devi Park Hotel, No-1 Hanumantha Road, North Usman Road
Locality:T-nagar
Landmark:Joyakullas, Opp Somasundaram park
Type:Barbaques with buffet
Google map location:Barbeque Nation
Contact No:044-60600000, 64530160 , 9381512199
Open: 12.15 PM to 3.15 PM for lunch and 7.15 PM to 11.30 PM for dinner
website:Barbeque Nation
Cuisines:Barbecue, Indian, Chinese, Italian

Barbeque Nation is fusion food done to perfection! A brilliant marriage of east and west! Barbeque and casual dining!!!! vegetarian and non vegetarian!!

The time I entered Barbeque nation, it seemed to be just like any other restaurant from the outside but the difference was it had an open kitchen .The taste is amazing ,the best place in Chennai to have barbaque .

Located in T-nagar ,accessibility wasn't much of an Issue. Do make the reservations early. On each occasion, there was a long queue of patrons waiting patiently for tables.. Ambiance was cool - with low seats and mild lighting.Though both Veg and Non-veg are provided, the menu was very much in favor of the non vegetarians.

Eating out at Barbeque nation is all about Starters. It sells a unique dining concept- which are mainly barbeques , skewers of freshest prawns, fish, chicken, mushrooms, vegetables, paneer cubes, baby potatoes and more , which are cooked on the smoldering charcoal grill at your table. ( The grill itself is an ingenious creation- a small metal box lined with hot charcoal bits which is fitted into the small void in the table- no burners ).
In addition to that the waiters serve chunks of grilled meat,Mutton made of minced meat accompanied by hot roti and butter nan bread on your plate .
While you are grappling with the copious amount of food you are grilling and consuming, a band plays good live western music .

Another interesting arrangement is that, little flags were provided for each diner. When one wishes to say 'Stop', all that is to be done is to lower the flag.

Proceeded to the main course - but could not make much out of it as we were already done eating of kababs. The mini buffet comprising the staple briyani, tandooris, pasta, soups, salads, chicken curries, panner butter masala, yoghurt, dessert both western and Indian.

The choice of desserts too was great - not to forget those warm and extra tasty Hot Jamuns, ice cream,fruit salad and the Pastry s Definitely worth trying.

Do make the reservations early. On each occasion, there was a long queue of patrons waiting patiently for tables.

Additional Information

* Air conditioned
* Credit card accepted
* Buffet - Rs484 before 7:45Pm and Rs530 after 7:45pm
* Av. cost for two : Rs.1000

Mahabalipuram/Mamallapuram -- Redefention of architecture

2009-12-23T00:17:00.000-08:00

Locality:Mamallupuram (En route to pondicherry)
District: Kanchipuram
Type:Historical
Google map location: Mahabalipuram
Timings for visiting the shore Temple: 9 AM to 5.30 PM
Illumination Timings at shore temple:From sunset to 8 PM
Entry Fee
The fee is around Rs 15 for Indians and Rs 250 for foreigners

History

Mahabalipuram (Tamil: மகாபலிபுரம்) also known as Mamallapuram (Tamil: மாமல்லபுரம்) is a town in Kancheepuram district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It has an average elevation of 12 metres (39 feet).

Mahabalipuram was a 7th century port city of the South Indian dynasty of the Pallavas around 60 km south from the city of Chennai in Tamil Nadu. It is believed to have been named after the Pallava king Mamalla. It has various historic monuments built largely between the 7th and the 9th century, and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Trip

On Friday evening we decided to visit mahabalipuram. Even if I was born in Chennai and traveled through ECR many times ..this is was my first visit to shore temple so I was anxious .We four started in 2 bikes from nungumbakkam at 6:30 am and took the scenic ECR ( East Coast Road ), stopping at little beaches along the way.
Tiger Cave

It took around 2 hours for us to reach the tiger wave .They charge 5 rupees for parking in Tiger cave .The name `Tiger's Cave' may conjure up awesome images of tigers living in caves, it is far from it. It gets its name from a cave set apart among the rocks with a crown of carved tiger heads around the temple.

With the maintenance of the cave the responsibility of the Archaeological Survey of India, the space has now been neatly developed with lawns dotted by palm, casuarinas and other trees. The small hillocks and rocks offer a natural excuse for children and adults alike to climb and run around.

An Archaeological Survey of India board at the entrance outlines that the ancient monument is protected and quotes the rules on its preservation from damage. A significant step in maintenance is the presence of a guard who instructs people to throw waste in the bin in his presence. The rock cut cave temple with a Shiva Linga and a Nandi is at a corner of the Tiger's Cave complex, which a few visitors remember to visit. The temple is situated below ground level and hence the top of the rock that forms the roof of the temple is accessible for climbing. Sitting over the roof of the cave temple is a photographer's delight with rocks dotting the foreground, trees in the middle and the Bay of Bengal in the background.

From the Tiger's Cave premises, the beach is also accessible. For those who take a car to get there, besides the Rs.45 paid to and fro at the East Coast Road toll gate and the Rs.10 as car park fee, there is no other payment to be made for entry into the Tiger's Cave.

Arjuns Penance

After traveling for 1 Km we reach the entrance of Mahabalipuram where they charge again 5 rupees for bikes ...then traveling for few kilometers we can visit the Arjuna's penance.Measuring 96 feet long by 43 feet high ,the figure in the bas-relief interprets as Arjuna is standing on one leg performing an austerity Tapas to receive a boon from Shiva as an aid in fighting the Mahabharata war.

Five Rathas

Then we visited the Five Rathas(Pancha Rathas).The five monolithic pyramidal structured shrines are named after the Pandavas (Arjuna, Bhima, Yudhishtra, Nakula and Sahadeva) and Draupadi.Each shrine is not assembled from cut rock but carved from one single large piece of stone.After visiting Five Rathas. we decided to go for lunch ..so we had chosen Mamalla hotel...The hotel atmosphere seemed to be fine but the service is disgusting ..the hotel service was very irritating they took around 1 hour to serve our orders.The cost is very expensive ..My advice is to try some other hotel instead of this .

Shore Temple

The Shore Temple (700-728 CE) is so named because it over looks the Bay of Bengal. It is a structural temple, built with blocks of granite, dating from the 8th century AD.Legend has it that six other temples once stood with it (Seven Pagodas).The Shore Temples configuration of the two Shiva shrines with the small Vishnu shrine in between illustrates an attempt to balance the different, competing religious requirements.The shore temple is very beautiful and after 6pm shore temple is Illuminated to give a spectacular sight of the shore temple.

On the way back we went to DELHI ECR Dhabha.....We where able to see emu and carry rabbits .The food was good but the place as not so clean.By 10:00 pm we reached back home .

Sweet chariot cafe - lip smacking

2009-09-27T06:52:00.000-07:00

Sweet Chariot Cake Shop and Cafe

Address: 1. 123/124, Ispahani Centre, Nungambakkam, Chennai
2. No. 2, Nungambakkam High Road, Chennai
Locality:Nungumbakkam
Landmark:Ispahani Centre and opposie Anadha bhavan
Type:Pastries and Coffee shop
Google map location:Sweet Chariot
Contact No: 044-28214133 / 28215133
Open: 10 a.m. to 10.30 p.m
website:www.sweetchariot.co.in

The charm in the bright orange colors of the cafe and the sumptuous looking cakes/mousse Guess what ? The answer is Sweet Chariot. The aesthetics, ambiance and the sweets look a feast to the eye .The very sight of mousses, pastries, cakes gets everyone drooling.

They server the best chocolate items that you can get in Chennai.This certainly is the place for all pastry lovers, for all chocolate decorated, cocoa coated sweets. Sweet chariot cafe serves surprisingly good fare burgers, juicy fresh pizzas , rum filled cakes, pastries of all kinds ,have the best chocolate mousse in the city ,hot dogs, doughnuts, tarts, flans, beverages cold coffees, cappuccino, mock-tails, desserts, ice creams and mouth watering brownies, Ratatouille.

The cafe is on two floors and is cozy.Awesome place to throw a birthday party, you can have the top floor all for yourself! The service is not very fast, but it is not very intrusive either. The ambiance is so 'pretty' to be precise, just what a cake cafe should be like.It's a place to get away to feel young again.The Black Forest n Chocolate Mousse rocks in this place which needs a special mention.

The prices are moderate and party orders are also taken. This is the best place to order a birthday cake .The sandwiches may seem costly but are worth the money.The mayonnaise they provide is very tasty . People visiting Isphani center preferring to spend like 100rs can visit Sweet Chariot .The cost is far lesser than coffee day.They have two shops in Nungumbakkam, one in Isphani Center and other opposite Adyar Anadha Bhavan.

I would rate this place 8/10.

Additional Information

Air conditioned
Credit card accepted
Party orders Taken
Av. cost for two : Rs.150

Gudiyam Caves---Near Poondi(Cavern to prehistoric times )

2009-09-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

Gudiyam Caves--Cavern to prehistoric Times

Locality:Gudiyam
Landmark:Poondi reservoir
Type:Adventurous Trip
Google map location:

A 90-kilometer drive from Chennai to Gudiyam village past Poondi a road less traveled brings you to an inaccessible forest of evergreen and deciduous trees .This is where Robert Bruce Foote in 1863, a British geologist, discovered a stone tool - a hand axe, made, used and discarded by the Stone Age man - from a gravel pit in suburban in this place . The discovery, small but momentous, opened up an entire new area of research about the Paleolithic Age in the Tamilnadu region, and pushed back the antiquity of the Tamil man by 1,00,000 years.

We planned on Friday for the trek to this mystic place .On Saturday 9:15 am we 5 started in Ritz car and reached Gudiyam around 10:45am.On the way we took photos of the Poondi reservoir.The place was not polluted after long time I could feel silence and breathe fresh air.

The Gudiyam village is located at 11 km drive from Poondi reservoir.The road is not well maintained but adjustable .You need to consult the locals to find the way through.Most of the people are aware of the caves(kugai in Tamil).Mention kugai(caves) for them to guide you .

Take the road to Nambakkam to reach Goonipalyam. Right direction as shown in the photo.

If you traveling by car then you can park the vehicle at the end of the cement road ,there begins the forest .Jeeps and all terrain vehicle can go 400 meter more ,there is ample space for parking offer a biscuit packet to locals boys they can take care of your vehicle.I feel it is safe to stop the vehicle at the cement road to avoid any puncture.The invisible bike with luck of not being punctured and gutsy heart can go 3 km more inside the terrain.

The adventure begins,The locals in the last village will help you in showing the starting point . The trek for 7 km inside the lonely forest is all yours expect for the few stones painted in white act as route markers. The path for the first few km is big and easy to walk,On approaching near the mountain the pathway is full of pebbles and rocks.Follow the pathway ,dont divert as it is very difficult to trace back the route.Please wear shoes to avoid any ankle twists.

First cave

The walk is around 4 km then you would see the first cave.The right diversion from the pathway lead you to the steps for the first cave . On reaching the first cave you we amazed to see the big rock formation.We reached the cave around 1:30pm and had our lunch (2 slices of bread with Jam).Please clean the place after having your lunch and don't pollute the place with plastic bags.

View Inside the first cave

We could see a path leading upwards near to cave ,we decided to take the path ,the route is slightly steep and full of pebbles(please proceed with caution),Within few meters of walk you can reach the top of the mountain .The view from the top is spectacular and gives the complete map of the area. You will surrounded by greenery,it is worth to take photos.It would be like you are in the center of the forest.The feeling of standing in top of the hill is great. It is easy to climb up but be very cautious while getting down is difficult from the hills as the pebbles are slippery ,avoid if it rains.

From the top of the hill

Then after ample rest we got down from the first cave and proceeded further for another 3 km.The path get narrower and covered with thick bushes .

Second Cave

On nearing the Second cave we could hear the sound of parrots and other birds. The view of this cave was spectacular,The entrance looks like a giant toadstool that has keeled over. And in contrast to the sun-drenched exterior, it is cool within .Look up at the ceiling I bet you will be awed at the sight of massive beehives clinging to the porous & damp roof of the cave.The foul smell of bat can be sensed.

There resides a Amman temple within the cave worshiped by locals.. A kindly Amman deity sits in a framed photo, as other deities and their war-worn steeds stand impressively by. Colorful pieces of cloth are strung on a tall plant. The primordial silence is shattered only by the humming of bees and the querulous twitter of birds.We also spotted a snake skin inside the cave.

After taking lot of photos inside the cave we decided to walk back.This journey was a cavern to the past and away from mechanical,polluted life in Chennai.The walk of 7km was deserving and adventurous.

We walked after on the way back and reached the car at 3:40 am and had our snacks at Akshaya Bhavan in Thiruvallur.The food was tasty and the place was well maintained.

Important Note

Shoes is compulsory as the pathway is rugged.
Carry lots of Water (2ltr per person).
Buy Food for the travel in Thiruvallur.
No human contact for the 7 km trek
Avoid plastic bags
Avoid climbing up the hill during rains.
Don't disturb the beehive it may prove disastrous

Kolkata Mithai Bhavan - Authentic Bengali

2009-08-15T23:05:00.000-07:00

Address:Chitra Shopping Inn, No. 9A, Choolaimedu High Road, Chennai – 600 094
Locality:Choolaimedu
Landmark:First left after the Loyola College underpass
Type:Bengali Sweets
Google map location:Kolkata Mithai Bhavan
Contact No: 044-23451297.
Open: 10 a.m. to 10.30 p.m

This sweet shop on Choolaimedu High Road has been specializing in Bengali sweets and savories. A.K. Das, along with wife Kakoli Das and brother Madhusudan Das, has been running the place, with 15 others working as kitchen staff.

The shop serves one of the best Bengali sweets in the city.For sweet tooth persons the menu card is really tantalizing . The shops is famous for there Chitrakut, noukabilash, sita bhog, raj bhog, radha ballavi (served only on Saturdays and Sundays) and Jala Bhara . You get Variety of Bengali Sweets need more than a visit to try all the items .

Do try chum-chum, which is not very sweet yet soft and comes with a shelf life of four hours. Chittaranjan also falls in a similar category. Both chum-chum and chittaranjan are prepared in limited quantity, so make sure you place your order in advance.Rasmalai(Rs10) is the very tasty and cost is cheap compared to other sweet shops

Sandesh is one of the best-selling items on the menu. The steamed milk sweet is available in different shapes – fruits, vegetables, fish (for wedding ceremonies), pond, etc.The sugar, especially that used for preparing Sandesh, is extracted from the khajur plant only in winter. "It has a different flavor, which you will get while relishing our sweets." Around 100 kilos of the sugar is bought, which he sparingly uses to last him a year. Otherwise, around 150 liters of sweets are prepared a day.

There is also a live parotta, chappati and chaat counter in the evening. The place is buzzing with lot of youngsters and Bengali people in the evening . You get varieties of stuffed chapaties and parothas, like gobi, paneer,Mixed vegetable.The paneer is freshly prepared daily.

The Punjabi dish aluparatha gets the lot of people gathering from day till ten in the night.Its awesome being there in the evening whole lot of crowd n lots of people talking different languages

The service is excellent .The shop can occupy around 8 people and there is enough space outside where there are other shops to gorge upon.

Additional Information

No card accepted
Moderate Cost
1kg of sweet 180-250rs
Worth a Try
A/C shop

Isphani Center ---CCD and Marybrown

2009-08-15T02:49:00.000-07:00

Address:No. 123 & 124, Ispahani Center, Nungambakkam High Road,
Locality:Nungumbakkam
Landmark: Near to The PARK hotel
Type:Hangouts
Google map location:Ispahani center

Ispahani centre is said to be a place where the happening crowd of Chennai hang out. Now, there are much better options for the Chennai crowd but this place still holds a good place in the minds of people - probably because of its prime location (right near Nungambakkam signal) and MOP Vaishnav College next to it .

The Plaza has very few shops when compared with Spencers .

Cafe Coffee Day(CCD)

The Cafe Coffee Day outlet in the Plaza is one of the first outlet for Coffee Day in Chennai,The shops is always buzzing with students from MOP and other colleges.The prices are very expensive and most of the items in the menu card is not available

Marry Brown

Marry Brown famous for its Chicken Foods, French Fries and Burgers. It is wortha TRy but frequent visits make it bored .Kids can enjoy in this place as there toys.

For Women Fashion geeks Designer Ritu Kumar store is located at Ispahani Centre.

For men looking for formal wear, there is the Indigo Nation .
For women looking for fashion jewelry, you can try the Art Karat outlet here as well as Casablanca which also has lovely hand-painted kurtas, hats and more for those into that Aurovillian feel.

Sweet Chariot shop

If you are have a sweet tooth then you’d love Sweet Chariot shop . You get the best of cakes and pastries her.You also get Birthday cakes, speciality cakes and more. The Pizzas are worth
a Try,They are cheaper than PIZZA CORNER .It is home to some of the most mouth-watering pastries in town.
The café is pretty cozy and not huge. Spread onto two floors, it gives you an option to reserve an entire floor for a birthday party or a friendly get-together. As is seen in most bakery and dessert shops, the front counter has an assortment of luscious and mouth-watering cakes, pastries and cookies. The softly lit light orange interiors complemented by black, gel well with the ambiance. The bearers too wear similar colors.
What you pay for a meal for two - Rs.400-600
Anytime between – 11 AM – 11 PM
Phone : 044-42139976 / 42323368

Swarovski

The best crystal shop in Chennai , you can see variety of design crystals and it is beautiful to watch. The lighting in the shop is excellent . The prices are very expensive but the shop is worth a visit for your eyes.

The Singapore Visitors Center also functions from the first floor here. So, you can even find out more about this Land of the Merlion if you already haven't.
Oh, and this is possibly the only mall with a full-fledged gym – Gymania.

Dilip Kapoor’s Hidesign (for all accessories in leather) also has an outlet here, right next to Casablanca, its sister concern.

The Bounce Style Lounge, which can really set you up in some funky hairdos.One of Chennai’s hippest salons has made its home in Isapahani too.

Some of the shops placed are

CASABLANCA READY-MADE GARMENTS
TITANIC READY-MADE GARMENTS
DOCKERS READY-MADE GARMENTS
LIADRO READY-MADE GARMENTS
SWAROVSKI READY-MADE GARMENTS
ACCESENT READY-MADE GARMENTS
ARCHIES GREETINGS & GIFTS LTD. GREETINGS CARDS
CAFE COFFEE DAY COFFEE PUB
OYZTERBAY READY-MADE GARMENTS
SWEET CHARIOT SWEET SHOP
MARRYBROWN RESTAURANT
HIDESIGN READY-MADE GARMENTS
INDIGONATION SHOWROOM
KHAL'S FOOT WORLD SHOE WORLD
VJ'S HOME DINNER DINNER SHOP
GLITTERATI READY-MADE GARMENTS
LEVIS SHOWROOM
CREST JEWELERS PVT. LTD.

And that's about it! So probably not worth visiting unless you are specifically looking at some shopping in one of the above shops or you want to meet someone in a place easy to remember without too much crowd!

Mouthful Restaurant- Chennai

2009-07-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Mouthful - Roasted Lamb and Tandoori

Address:No:12 Raghavaiah Road, T.Nagar , Chennai -17
Phone:91 44 4212 4250
Locality:T.Nagar
Landmark:Opp to Kannadasan Statue on G.N Chetty Road
Cuisine Type:Tandoori & Oriental Foods.

The menu card looks Tantalizing , Lot of dishes for Non-vegetarian and few but enough dishes for vegetarian is all I can describe of the menu Present . There is enough space in the front for around 20 People to wait . The restaurant was crowded by 8 Pm on Sunday but by 10 pm it was empty .The prices are moderate . They have variety of dishes in chicken and Sea Foods.

Chicken Lollipop

The biryani is tasty and spicy . I tried the Grilled Moroccan chicken , it was awesome . they also have various flavours of grilled chicken like Afghan, Lebanese,Moroccan . The chicken fried Rice with chicken lollipop was a nice combination .

Grilled Chicken

The service is very bad . we had to wait nearly 1/2 an hour to get an Table and another 15 minutes for Taking the order .We had to shout even for water and Raitha . The good thing was we got our dishes in 10 minutes and no waiter seen for next 40 minutes to attend us .We had to wait 10 minutes for Raitha .

Naan ,Paratha and Malai Koftha

The food was tasty and awesome .The Masala Kulcha and Malai kofta needs a mention it was one of the best I have had in Chennai .Malai Kofta was sweet and prepared with paneer .The Tandoori chicken and Grilled Chicken have 8 peices for a Full plate and seemed very convincing . The Schezwan Fried Rice was too spicy for being edible .They have variety of Indian Breads ( Kashmiri Naan, panner Naan, Mutton khemma Naan) and Many types of parottas ( Aloo, Pudina, Tandoori and Panner) for vegetarian and for Non vegetarian ( Mutton kothu ,Chicken kothu ,Ceylon Parottas).

On the whole food seems to be great but need to improve on service to retain customers.The ambiance is great . There must be better exhaust system as the smoke swirls in the dinning place . The music played is Pleasant .

I would rate this place 6.5/10.

Additional Information:

A/C
Timings:12:15 pm - 11:15 pm
Card accepted
Av. cost for two : Rs.250

Vadapalani Murugan Temple

2009-07-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

Location: Andavar Koil Street, Vadapalani, Chennai
Main deity: Palani Andavar
Phone: (91) 44 483-6903 or 530-1230
Office hours: 4 pm - 9 pm

Vadapalani Murugan (Andavar) Temple is a highly respected shrine situated at Vadapalani, means North Palani, in Chennai and is worth visiting. The temple enshrines Lord Velayudha (Muruga) as the main presiding deity. The wonderful 4 ft sculpture of the presiding deity is spectacular of all eyes. Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathi, wife of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha (Son of Shiva and Parvathi) are also worshipped here. Lord Hanuman's image is inscribed in a pillar. Butter offered by the devotees is applied to this Lord Anjaneya and the devotees pray for the fulfillment of their desires. This renowned temple witnesses a large number of weddings, about 7,000 weddings annually, and is famous for bringing people together. This is an important temple to visit.

The entrance of the Vadapalani temple

The moolavar in standing posture resembles the Palani Muruga in every respect. In the inner prakara, there are many niches housing Dakshina Murti, Chandikeswar, Mahalakshmi, et al. It has a spacious hall used for conducting marriages and religious discourses. It is one of the most-frequented Murugan shrines in the city of Chennai.

The entrance to this temple is crowned with a Rajagopuram adorned with several stucco images depicting legends from the Skanda puranam. In front of the temple is the temple tank. The eastern tower rises to a height of 40.8 metres. The 108 bharata natyam dance gestures can be seen on the eastern tower as well.

The Vadapalani Muruga Temple was built about 125 years back and is one of the most frequented Lord Muruga temples in Tamil Nadu.

Festivals:

Skanda Sashti is celebrated here in the month of Aippasi. Other festivals celebrated here include Panguni Uttiram. The Karttikai asterism in each month attracts large crowds.

Other deities:

Arunagirinathar, Chokkanatha, Ganapathi, Kaliamman, Kasi Viswanatha, Kuthuvar, Manikkavachakar, Meenakshi Amman, Six-faced Muruga with Valli and Devanai, Vairavar, Varasiddhi Vinayaga, Virabagudevar, Virabhadra, Visalakshi

History:

According to the sthalapurana, one Muruga devotee by name Annaswami Tambiran with his limited means built a small thatched hut and kept a Murugan painting for his personal worship primarily. During his meditation and worship, he used to experience some divine power entering his body and inspiring him to utter some mysterious things -- whatever he said in his trance was found true. His utterance went by the name of arulvak and relieved people in several ways, like curing diseases and getting jobs, solemnizing marriages, etc.

Once he fell ill suddenly. At the instance of a sadhu, he visited Tiruttani and prayed to Muruga offering a part of his tongue cut with a knife at Balipeeta. On his return, the disease took to flight.

He paid a visit to Palani by foot and had some strange experiences there. He continued his worship in the hut he built, and when he felt his end was nearing he requested a close friend by name Ratnaswami to continue the devotional activities to the painting he was worshipping. Strangely enough, this Ratnaswami too started giving arulvak after building a small shrine and worshiping as promised to his friend.

The money that public gave was put to building purpose. But Ratnaswami also passed away before completing it. Another like mind took the building project with the money he was getting from arulvak just like his predecessors. Unluckily, he too passed away.

Then entered into the arena some humanist philanthropists who metamorphosed that simple hut into a superb spiritual abode. Among the builders, the renowned Saiva Pravakta Kripananda Variyar's name takes first place. Thus emerged this great Muruga kshetra, and now a great temple drawing a steady streams of pilgrims throughout the year.

Daily pujas:

5 am: Nadai
5:30 am: Palli Arai
7 am: Milk Abhishekam
10 am: Vibhuti Abhishekam
11 am: Santanam Abhishekam
12 noon: Uchi Kâla Puja
9 pm: Palli Arai Puja

Additional Information

Be careful with your belongings
Crowded on Festivals
Lot of Hotels and Restaurant near by

Napier Bridge - Chennai

2009-07-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Napier Bridge :

One of the famous landmarks in Chennai,The Napier Bridge is also known as the Iron Bridge . The bridge was constructed to honor Lord Napier who became the Governor of Fort St. George , Madras Presidency.This is one of the earliest structures to use RCC (re-enforced concrete).

The Napier bridge is built over the river coocum . The bridge connects the beach with the Fort St George This bridge was built in 1869 across Coovum river by Governor Napier who held this office from 1866 to 1877. What was narrow bridge with Iron Girders this was broadened and built in concrete and was thrown open for General Traffic by Arthur Hope in July 1943. This Bridge bears ample testimony to the Engineering skill of the British.

War Memorial -Chennai

2009-07-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

Victory War Memorial (Chennai):

Location: Beach Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

The Victory War Memorial is located to the south of Fort St. George. This memorial is also known as ‘Cupid’s Bow’. A circular rock and marble structure was constructed to commemorate the victory of the allied armies during World War I (1914-1918) and later became the victory war memorial for the World War II (1939-1945) in the memory of those from Chennai presidency who lost their lives serving the nation.Now there are inscriptions of 1948 Kashmir Aggression, 1962 War with China and also the Indo Pak War.

The war memorial is situated after the Napier bridge . The view of the circular building around the memorial can be seen clearly .

Fort St. George -- Secretariat for Tamilnadu.

2009-07-06T07:48:00.000-07:00

Location : Island Grounds, Rajaji Salai , Secretariat Chennai-60009
Built By : The British
Google map : Fort St George
Timing : 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.mming : Timing : Saturday to Thursday From 10.00 to17.00 hrs.Saturday to Thursday From 10.00 to17.00 hrs.

Fort St.George is the administrative building of the Government of Tamilnadu. Today its used as a offices of Tamil Nadu Secretariat and the Legislative Assembly.The fort is open to the public however only to a certain area. The main building or the Secretariat is approachable only by government officials and the police. The cannons and the moat which guarded this old building have been left untouched.Fort St. George.

Flag post at Fort St. George, the tallest in India

History:

The fort was completed on April 23, coinciding with St. George’s Day, celebrated in honour of St. George, the patron saint of England. The fort, hence christened Fort St. George faced the sea and a few fishing villages, and soon became the hub of merchant activity. It gave birth to a new settlement area called George Town (historically referred to as Black Town), which grew to envelop the villages and led to the formation of the city of Madras. It also helped establish British influence over the Carnatic region, and keep the kings of Arcot and Srirangapatna, as well as the French forces based at Pondicherry, at bay.

St. George Fort is located on the banks of Bay of Bengal. It was built by the British East India Company in 1640 AD. The fort is believed to be the first establishment of the British in India. It is a military architecture marvel, which was erected as a trading post and later evolved to be the origin of modern Indian Army. The fort is a stronghold with 6 meter high walls that withstood a number of assaults in the 18th century. It briefly passed into the possession of the French from 1746 to 1749, but was restored to the British under the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, which ended the War of Austrian Succession.

Situated in the coastal state of Tamil Nadu, this ancient monument is worth watching on your trip to Chennai. St. George Fort holds great historical importance and is looked after by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Buildings inside the fort:

The Church:

St. Mary's Church is the oldest Anglican church in India. It was built in 1678-80 AD. The tombstones in its courtyard are the oldest British tombstones in India. This ancient prayer house solemnized the marriages of Robert Clive and Governor Elihu Yale, who later was first benefactor of Yale University in the United States. The church is popularly known as the 'Westminster Abbey of the East'.

Museum:

The Fort Museum exhibits the items of the British rule. This building was completed in 1795 and first housed the office of the Madras Bank. The hall upstairs was the Public Exchange Hall and served as a place for public meetings, lottery drawings and occasionally for entertainment. These relics are the reminder of the British rule in India. The objects on display in the museum are the weapons, coins, medals, uniforms and other artifacts from Britain, France and India dating back to the British period. The original letters written by Clive and Cornwallis make fascinating reading. One set of quaint period uniforms is displayed for viewing, as well. However, the piece de resistance is a large statue of Lord Cornwallis.

Wellesley House

The first floor of the building has the banquet hall, which holds the paintings of the Governor of the Fort and other high officials of the Regime. The cannons of Tipu Sultan decorate the ramparts of the museum. The 14.5 ft statue stands at the entrance near a stairway in the museum. This statue was created by Charles Bank in England and then brought to India. The pedestal of the statue is carved with a scene depicting Tipu Sultan's emissary handing over Tipu's two sons as hostage in lieu of a ransom he was unable to pay to the British. It takes its name from Richard Wellesley, Governor General of India, and brother of the Duke of Wellington.

Garden Opposite Fort St George

The Chennai Corporation has put up an Beautiful Park opposite Fort St George . The place is clean and well Maintained . I have never seen Such beautiful Fountain in Chennai for an Decade , the Park is green and Clean.The Park has ample space for Parking and is maintained very well. You get to see the beauty of the fort from inside . The fountains add beauty to the park.You could easily spend an hour in the park. The park is spacious and lot of people around the fountain to take photos.

Adyar Ananda Bhavan--Pure Ghee sweets

2009-06-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

ADYAR ANANDA BHAVAN SWEETS & SNACKS

Address: HO: Muthulakshmi Bhavan ,9, M.G. Road, Shastri Nagar,Chennai - 600 020
Phone: 91- 44 - 23453050, 24469977, 24462324
Locality:Adyar,Mogappair, Mylapore, T-Nagar, Anna-Nagar and many other places
Cuisine Type:North and South Indian, Sweets, Snacks and Chinese

Adyar Anandha Bhavan shortly known as A2B is situated in all important places in Chennai .A2B was started 20 years ago, Now they are the one of the leading Sweet shops in Chennai .The Sweet shops has now added will a small restaurant with moderate cost to serve its customers.Adyar Ananda Bhavan Sweets and Snacks caters to all sections of the public, in India - be it the melting mysorepauk of South or the multi variety sonepapdi of the North or the mouth watering rasagolla of East or the ever green dry fruits of the West .They serve Tandoori,North Indian and South Indian Dishes.

A2b has a wide variety of sweets, I prefer the Badam Milk(Rs30) and Rasmalai(Rs20).They also have Bengali sweets .The sweets shop is always busy , the snacks items like chips ,Murruku are also tasty. The sweets are generally placed at Rs240 per Kg and snacks item at Rs160 per Kg.Whenever I go to Anandha Bhavan I have a piece of Fruit Halwa(per piece Rs15) , this Halwa is made up of all dry fruits.The BadamHalwa(Rs320/Kg) is the costliest sweet .Kaju Katli(Rs240) is an Indian sweet made from cashews, sugar, cardamom powder and ghee.

The Chinese dishes are tasty ,My favorite dish is Chilly Panner (Rs45) with Veg fried Rice(Rs38).They provide different variety of fried rice ,Ginger/garlic fried rice(Rs40),Mushroom fried rice(Rs45),Panner fried rice(Rs45),Shezchwan Fried Rice(Rs45).The also provide same flavor in Noodles instead of rice .The Chinese side dishes are Gobi Manchurian(Rs40) ,The Mushroom/Panner Manchurian(Rs45) are tasty and the quality of Panner is good .Baby corn Pepper fry(Rs45),Golden Fry Baby corn(Rs45) are new delicacy which you can get in Dry as well as Masala. Golden Fry Panner(Rs45),Chilly Gobi(Rs45).

Veg fried rice with Panner Manchurian

I generally dont prefer to have Pizzas(Rs45-55) in Anandha Bhavan as they are small and the it is not tasty,The Sandwiches(Rs30-45) are prepared hot and tasty.The new entrant is the Chilly Porotta (Rs35) it has a different taste and worth a try.

The menu card for Chinese items and Tandoori item differ from each Ananadha Bhavan Shop. You get all the variety in T-nagar and Mylapore shop .The Mylapore branch offers Idlis (Rs15), Plain to Rava Dosas(Rs15-28) , They also have Adai Avial (Rs30) , It an South- Indian delicacy.

The place is clean and well Maintained.The cost of the Chinese and North Indian items is Nominal . It is a nice place to have Hangout with friends . But I always felt the sweets and snacks are expensive,But the cost in same in all sweets shops .The service is good , but the foods takes times to come as it is prepared on order.No complains on taste and quality.

A2B has a branch in Bangalore city(No.344, 7th Block, Koramangala, Bangalore, Near 80ft RD).

I would rate this place 8/10.

Website: http://www.aabsweets.in/

Additional Information

Pure vegetarian
Air conditioned
Credit cards accepted
Moderate Price -- Rs 100 for 2(For chinese items)
Timings :8:00am to 10:30pm
Ambiance is peaceful

Spencer Plaza---One Stop Shop for Everything

2009-06-13T22:29:00.000-07:00

Spencer Plaza

Google Map:Spencer Plaza
Address: 769,Anna Salai,Tamilnadu 600002
Phone:044 28330088
Landmark:Next to Taj Connemara
Locality: Mount Road
Shopping:Everything in single place.

Spencer Plaza, one of the biggest shopping malls in South Asia, is located on Mount Road (officially known as Anna Salai), and is one of the landmarks of the modern Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India.Spencer Plaza stocks everything ranging from branded clothes and jewelry to bags and trinkets.The mall is well placed and easily accessible. Though crowded it is the best place to shop for so many items that you don't get in the market with ease.
The best part about Spencer is its organized parking.It is best place to Hangout with friends and window shopping .There are three phases to this mall.
Let us Discuss it one by one .

Clothes:

If you are looking for wide variety of clothes then Spencer Plaza is the Place to be . You can buy formal , Casual clothes . You have branded stores such as Sting and Derby in Third Phase,
Pantaloon and Westside in First Phase for both men and women.The mall also has a many shops in various phases for non branded formal and casual wear for men and women.T-Shirts(Rs200), Shirts(Rs300-500) , Formal Pants(Rs 500) and Casual Pants (Rs250-1000). You also get wide variety of designer shirts that are trendy and tight fit.For jeans you have all the brand you can find from LEE, Levis to Normal Jeans(Rs350).
The T-shirts in some shops are not good may tear after 2 to 3 washes , Must be careful of the material.For ladies you can get Tops for around 300 to 400Rs , you must bargain in these shops to reduce the price.I generally don't prefer to buy clothes in Spencer.

Shoes:

Name the brand you have in Spencer there are so many shops to buy for Shoes and Sandals. You have Adidas, Nike and Rebook showroom in 1st floor of Third phase . Bata Shoes shop for Power shoes and sandals are also available in Third Phase.Liberty Shoes direct dealer shop is also present.There is no Action shoe shop in Chennai , you cab get this brands in some shops no direct dealer .You also have shops that sell non branded shoes .

Restaurant:

The Food Mall in Third Phase

You have all kinds of restaurant in Spencer Plaza ,ranging from Indian,Chinese,French,Tibetan and many others.The Food court in 3rd Phase has lot of eateries to satisfy the people who visit the plaza. Pizza hut provides pizza with Pepsi,South Indian Thali at Sangeetha,Naan and north Indian Dishes in Tandoori Express, The Noodle House for people who like Chinese and Cakes in French Loaf.My advice with food court is wait for 5 to 6 menu cards before you order as it gives you lot of options with wide range of prices .You will at last spend about 500rs once you enter this place.

Spencer Plaza has a brand new food outlet, Mo'Town Momos, on the 2nd Floor, near the old food court. They are serving momos - healthy and exotic Tibetan dumplings with a variety of stuffing. Mo'Town Momos are at present serving 5 different varieties of momos - Classic Veg, Classic Chicken, Cheesy Capsicum, Mushroom Sweet Corn, and Mutton. These are very reasonably priced between Rs. 35 for Classic Veg and Rs. 65 for the Mutton. They serve 6 momos per plate - the momos themselves being quite big in size.

The food Mall in First Phase

You also have Saravana Bhavan is situated in 1st Phase and Arun ice cream unlimited in 3 rd phase for ice cream .The best shop to have ice cream in Spencer is this place for around 40Rs. Cookie man situated also provides icecream that are costly but expensive around Rs100 for a scoop ,walking just to right of it you can find a Rajasthani chat store which is always crowded you get tasty dahi Kachori, Bhel poori and other chat items .Sri Mithai Sweets another place to have snacks , You get chola Puri (Rs35) and all variety of north indian sweets .

Books

You have Landmark situated in 3 rd Phase . This is the biggest Landmark in Chennai . you get all the books but discounts are very less.Landmark has lot of books,Toys, Jewelery and some T-shirts . You have ample place to sit and go through the book before you can buy it . You also get movie CD and DVD's .Ceramic items are also available.

Prima's Class Bakers and Confectioner

2009-06-06T18:51:00.000-07:00

Prima's Bakery --- Delicious Cakes

Address: 11TH Main Road 2nd Avenue Anna Nagar, Chennai- 600040
Phone: 044-26211318
Locality: Anna Nagar
Landmark:Opposite Santhosh supermarket
Cuisine Type:Cakes,puffs and other bakery items

I always cross through the road thinking this bakery wont be good , But when I inquired from the locals in Annanagar ,They conveyed shop has been there for more than 10 years . So I decided to give a try. Was it worth it.

Ya, the Prima bakery was one the most tasty bakery I have ever visited . The cakes where delicious . You must try the Butterscotch cake (RS25) it was the best for the cost I Paid . The bakery is clean and well maintained . The staffs are very well coordinated and the service is excellent . The also have Pan pizza( Rs15) and PIZZAS. The Pan Pizza is the smaller version of the pizza .They have variety of Tarte (strawberry, blueberry,cashew ,almond) Rs12 each.Tarte are similar to pie's. The cakes range from Rs10 to Rs25, with variety of flavors and topping to mention some in Rs12 range (Pista cake , Strawberry cake,Choco nut cake ,Japanese cake,Vanilla cakes, Chocolate cakes ) .

The Mouche and Blackforest (Rs25) are really worth the try . I also tried the Mango Chocolate cake(Rs25) which was tasting different but good . The Puffs(Rs8) and samosa(Rs5) sell very fast , By 4:00pm all the puffs and somosas are over .The have Apple and Badam slice cakes(Rs12) which I felt where not so good The prices are very nominal .The Chicken Garlic Roll(Rs17) had a different taste that I have never tried.They also sell bread which is prepared daily . Cake orders are also taken.

You also have Murruku(Rs17) ,Seedai(Rs12),Masala Peanut(Rs12),Cup Cakes(Rs12), plum cakes(Rs40) which are in packets for taking home .The snacks item which I bought home where also tasty .The rates of these where are also moderate .

You can also get Brownie and egg less Banana Cake (Rs8) . The Prima's bakery is a budget bakery with quality satisfied.
The bakery can be made bigger for the crowd it attracts and more space for people to eat .There is space in the balcony with chairs provided for people to have the items.

I would rate this place 8.5/10

Additional Information

No credit card
Moderate Price -- Rs 100 for 2
Express Service
Air conditioned

Nalas Appam Kadai

2009-06-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

Nalas Appa Kadai ( Tasty Yummy Appams)

Address: Velachery Tambaram Road,Vijayanagar,Chennai-600042
Phone: 044-28256952
Locality: Velachery
Landmark:Opposite VijayaNagar Bus stand
Cuisine Type:Appam(South Indian Dishes)

The place looks small from outside, sticking in between stores at the Vijayanagar terminus,but don't judge it by this , The service is excellent. For the time I saw waitress in a South Indian Restaurant.

The Appams are the specialty of the place,You can find many varieties of Appam .To mention few are Egg Masala Appam, Chicken Kheema Appam , Mutton Kheema Appam. If you are trying Appam for the first time then order for Plain appam with Coconut milk , As this is the traditional way. The egg masala appam was a true different experience ,It tasted like an omelet on Appam .The egg masala appam with veg chettinad gravy (combo!!!!) was great and filling . I personally didn't like the Chicken Kheema appam as it was not as tasty as normal appam.

The ambiance is good, the place can be made bigger for the amount of crowd it attracts. The service is professional. The items on the menu are mostly non-vegetarian as expected but there were many eggetarian options. I am sure the non-vegetarians will enjoy it even better!!

The open kitchen for appams is another plus point, its so appetizing and tempting when you see the appams being made and taken out to tables. You also get Tandoori items and other dishes but it is not so tasty as Appams , So If going to Nallas try the appams that is the specialty.Juices are available but are costly .The Restaurant can occupy around 20-30 members at time.
A special mention about the service , It is awesome and extremely fast.The Waiter and Waitress are so polite and listen to your suggestion on food, they also suggest the combination for the appams. If you are expat living in Velachery then try Nallas.

I would rate this place 7/10

Additional Information

Non vegetarian
Air conditioned
Credit cards accepted
Moderate Price -- Rs 250 for 2
Timings :8:00am to 11:30pm
Express Service

Vandalur Zoo

2009-05-25T08:57:00.000-07:00

Vandalur Zoo(Aringar Anna Zoological Park) is about 25Kms from Chennai city on the NH45 national highway (the same road as Chennai Airport, Tambaram railway station) and driving there is easy once you cross Tambaram.Anna Zoological Park popularly known as Vandalur Zoo is spread over a sprawling area of 602 hectares.It is one of the largest zoo in south East Asia . There is ample car parking available inside the zoo premises. The Chennai suburban electric train service is another way to reach the zoo ,But the Railway Station is 2 Km away from the Zoo.There are lots buses operating from all parts of the city to reach the Zoo.The buses drop you in front of the Zoo which is more comfortable than Train.People Coming by train can get down at Tambaram and take a Bus to the Zoo. There are ample Number of buses available.

The zoo is open from 9.00am to 8.00pm all days, except Tuesdays. One can easily end up walking 10-15 km across the stretch of the park. The battery-operated vehicles are also available for rent. However, there are only 5-7 vehicles. Each vehicle carries approximately 15-20 people. Around 20-25 Bicycles are present to go around the Zoo. I feel Bicycle would be a better option then going in Battery car as it is Eco friendly and enough time to take photographs.
You can cover the entire zoo in multiple ways:

By walk
By renting a cycle (just after the entrance in front of Hotel Tamilnadu)
Buy a ride in the electric golf-carts (you need to wait for this in a queue)
Buy a ticket in the zoo tours (in motor van or trams, these are to be booked in advance for the same day)

The zoo charges for entry are Adults: Rs.20, Children: Rs.10 and for Photo camera: Rs.25.

Elephant safari(9:30-11:30 am and 4:30-6:30 pm) and Lion Safari (9:30-4:30 ) are also present.The Lion Safari lasts for about 20 minutes and runs every hour twice. You are taken in a special caged van to a special enclosed area inside the zoo where lions are free to roam. The vehicle you are in goes very near to the Lions who are oblivious to our presence inside the van. If you are visiting Vandalur Zoo don't miss this tour. If we can reach the Zoo by 9:00 am then it would be easy to get the bicycle . First we must finish the lion safari as number of tourist increases .

A wide range of animal life is habituated in this zoo. Animals can be seen in large open island type enclosure, with wet and dry moats and hidden walls with simulated natural environment. There are totally 81 enclosures. More than 170 species of mammals, aviaries and reptiles are exhibited in the zoo.

It would better if the plan to visit on weekdays as it wont be crowded. I am very happy that the number of food center is less and there is only one hotel that is situated in the entrance .This makes the Zoo free of garbage.Food items in plastic covers are not allowed this makes the Zoo Plastic Free. There is also a Aavin Parlour for refreshing yourself ,The food in Tamilnadu Restaurant is not so tasty but I prefer to have curd Rice which is safe for your stomach .The restaurant also provide Biryani and Chicken 65 which gets finished very soon. Only self service option available in restaurant .It is crowded near the billing section and delivery section.The authorities can improve on the Restaurant to make it more attractive and clean.A small boy outside the restaurant sells Lime Juice and Maaza .There are lot of waters cans available in the Zoos for refilling your bottles.Ty to have lunch by 12:45 as the restaurant wont be crowded .The Zoo is clean and most of the animals are not caged which enables the animals to be free

The White Tiger

I visited the Zoo to see the White tiger and Royal Indian Bengal Tiger it was really beautiful and I couldn't believe why people Kill them they are such gorgeous animals .When you see them they are definition of strength, beauty and intelligence. Please save Tigers if you see them then you will also join the campaign Save Tigers. There are 2 Bengal tigers one male and female , It was great opportunity that I could see them playing.

Royal Indian Bengal Tiger
Stone boards reveal the zoological nature, feeding, mating and breeding habits of the animals. The trees bear placards with their botanical name and other details. The zoo is woody,with plenty of trees.

Varieties of Deer(Barking deer, Sambar, Blackbuck, Nilgai, Sangai, Hog deer).Monkey species(Nilgiri Langur, the endangered lion-tailed Macaque, Baboon, Hanuman Langur and Leaf capped Langur)Carnivores like the tiger, lion, panther, jaguar,Wolf, Jackal, Hyena.
Elephants, giraffes, camels,llama,Otter,Star tortoises and snakes can also be seen.

Don't forget to visit the Jaguar and the leopard.I had the opportunity to see the jaguar very near the cage ,It instilled a sense of fear but I was mesmerized by the eyes of it . It is huge, strong and very Cute ....Now I could that it could take down a deer very easily ,The fur coat was so pleasant colored .. I was admiring until it gave a huge sound .I could Imagine how beautiful it would be in the wild...

The Jaguar

The Australian Cassowary

A few exotic species like the Emu and Cassowary, which are flightless birds from Australia, attract attention

The Emu

The other attractions in the zoo are:

Nocturnal animal house
Safari Park
A walk-through aviary
Pre-historic animal park
Reptile section
Prey-Predator enclosures
Zoo education and interpretation
An aquarium.

If you wish to see the entire zoo, you will need a full day (nearly from dawn to dusk) to cover it. Keep a good pair of walking shoes, sun cap, drinking water, food & eatables . No plastic covers are allowed so it better to bring food in paper bags.

Some bus Routes:E18,B18,A18,G18,500,518
Bus routes can be checked in :http://www.mtcbus.org/
It is about 1 hour from Koyambedu bus terminus(CMBT). All train from Beach Station stop in Tambaram and Trains going to Chengalpattu stop in Vandalur Station.

I would rate this place 9.5/10.

Additional Information

Reaching by bus is easier as it drops you in front of the Zoo.
Restaurant is present only in the entrance which provides very normal food.
Don't litter the place with Plastics.
Don't harm or feed the animals.
Place is clean,Peaceful and maintained very well

Saravanaa Bhavan - Fresh Bakes

2009-05-25T06:33:00.000-07:00

Address: 133, 134, Peters Road, Near Satyam Cinemas,Chennai-86
Phone: 044-28256952
Locality:Gopalapuram
Landmark: Near Sathyam cineplex,next to chruch park school entrance
Cuisine Type: Cakes pastry and Bakery items

Are you near Sathyam Cineplex and feeling hungry .. Saravanaa Bhavan Fresh bakes is the right place you must be to .The creamy smell from this bakery is felt when you enter Peter's road.All might be thinking that it is expensive as it is Sarvanaa Bhavan but actually it is more cheaper and the quality is great.

There are variety of puffs(vegetable Puff and Channa puff) priced in the range 12Rs-15Rs. You must try Gobi Pie and mushroom Pie which is really tasty priced at Rs12. Then must mention the cost of Pizzas ,The normal Vegetable Pizza costs 60Rs and Panner Pizza costs Rs83. The size of the pizza is medium and it is enough for a single person .You also get a small Pan Pizza for Rs 12.You also get yummy Burgers for Rs25.The dishes are prepared with latest technology in clean and pure way .

Cakes and pastry are little costlier but affordable .A piece of Black Forest costs Rs35. The picture of it is below. You also get Pineapple, Mango and chocolate Truffle .Ice cream are also available but I prefer the place for bakery Items .

Buy a piece of Brownie with fresh Cream(Rs35) the taste is awesome.You must try the Cup cakes ( Banana Pudding,Almond pudding), and don't forget to try the Apple Pie
Around 15 of them can dine at time . it is spacious and clean .It is nice place to hang around before a movie in Sathyam .
You also get bread(Fruit Bread,Masala Bread,Brown Bread,Sandwich Bread).Soup Sticks,Plum Cake,Dates and walnut cake and many other flavors of biscuits.

I would rate this place 8.5/10

Additional Information

Pure vegetarian
Air conditioned
Credit cards accepted
Sodexho accepted
Moderate Price -- Rs 100 for 2
Timings :8:00am to 11:30pm
Ambiance is peaceful

Booking Tickets In Chennai

2009-05-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

Railway Ticket Booking in Chennai

To book railway ticket you must go to Chennai Central or Egmore Railway Station. For tourist especially foreigners (expats), Chennai central is more comfortable as you have a separate room which makes it simple and Fast ( Passport is mandatory to avail this) .You can also book online through http://www.irctc.co.in/. On filling a form with basic details the booking is done . It is always safe to book tickets 2 to 3 months before the date of travel .I prefer 2nd class ticket to travel as it is cheap and comfortable . A/C costs three time more and you cannot view what happens outside . You can also book tickets in Mamblam(T-nagar) Station and few other stations but it is always better to book in Egmore or Central Station. Egmore and central have more ticket allocating queues so it is fast compared to other stations.

Chennai Central Railway Station("Gateway of the South")

Chennai Central, formerly known as Madras Central is the main railway terminus in Chennai. It is home to the Southern Railways and the most important rail hub in South India. Trains from here connect the city to other states of India.It also comprises of trains traveling to Trichy(Tiruchirapalli), Madurai and Tirunelveli.To book tickets you must go to the 1st floor of the next big building situated next to the railway station. The station has book-shops, restaurants, accommodation, Internet browsing centers and even an essential commodities shopping mall.To buy clean and safe water TEAM has set up its counter in Platform 5 which is cheap as well as guaranteed. I would suggest to buy a burger in hotbreads or have snacks in Saravana Bhavan or Rathnacafe to have a good tasty food . HOT Breads sandwiches (veg and chicken) are parceled well to take will traveling . These counters are opposite platform 10 and 11 .Please don't take autos outside central station as they are expensive and will cheat you . The best is to take paid autos from the booth setup for helping commuters just outside the station .To reach the station there are lots of buses from all parts of city like (1 series,17 series buses). Suburban station is just opposite to central which makes it easier to reach.

Chennai Central also has a Tourist Information Center. There are Tour operators and travel agents who offer the needed guidance and other services related tourism.Medical care is offered in case of exigency. There are also several Chennai hotels in the vicinity to cater to the needs of the travellers

Egmore Railway Station

Chennai Egmore is a railway station in Egmore, Chennai, South India. The station acts as the arrival and departure point for trains connecting Chennai and southern, central Tamilnadu and Kerala.Railway ticket booking counter in Egmore is present in the 1 St floor of the Railway station.This is one of the two main railway terminals in the city along with Chennai Central, which serves the north and west bound trains from the city. However, some trains to the north-east and eastern parts of the country also start from/pass through here, though the number is much fewer than the ones from Chennai Central.The Chennai Beach—Tambaram suburban railway line also passes through the station makes it easier for commuters to reach the station. The Platform ticket can be availed in the ground flooor,2 to 3 feet to the right of the main entrance .For Food and Snacks there are lot of restaurants outside the station and 2 hotels just inside the premises of the station ,they parcel the food and give it to you in 2 minutes . Idly is always nice to have during travel as it is light for the stomach.Autos here to are costly so it all depends on your bargaining.

BUS Ticket Booking in Chennai

To book bus ticket you must go to Koyambedu bus terminus or to T-nagar(Private buses). Government buses are less costly . Private buses are very expensive . The buses travel all over Tamilnadu . Private bus tickets can be booked online for some famous bus services are KPN,RATHIMEENA,Parveen travels and many more . Redbus.in site helps to book bus tickets for private operators . Buses are comfortable to short distance for long distance train is better .KSTRC, APSRTC and many other corporation buses can be booked in Koyambedu

Koyambedu bus terminus

It is the site of Asia's largest mofussil bus terminus called as the "Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus" or the CMBT and is accredited with the ISO 9001:2000 quality certification.
For booking bus tickets this is the best place to be in Chennai .There are lot of shops around the bus stand . Be careful of your luggage when traveling in bus . SETC bus tickets cannot be booked online only computer Reservation can be done at Koyambedu reservation center (time from 7.00 hrs to 21.00 hrs), T-Nagar(Bus terminus), Tambaram and Parrys Bus Stand . The phone number is as follows

KOYAMBEDU B.S (CMBT): 044-24794709
T.NAGAR : 044-24794709
TAMABARAM: : 044-24794709
PARRYS BUS STAND : 044-24794709

SETCL is a Tamilnadu government undertaking for operating long distance express services connecting all the district Headquarters in the state of Tamilnadu. Corporation operates long distance buses exceeding 250 km's. and above throughout the state of Tamilnadu linking all important capital cities, historical places, religious places and commercial places and the adjoining states like Andhrapradesh and Union Territory of Pondicherry.The SETC operates Semi-Deluxe, Video coach (VC), Super-Deluxe and Airbus.

Arun Icecream -- Unlimited

2009-05-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

Arun Icecream
Want to try variety of flavors at modest price .... Then visit Arun parlours that located in all parts of Chennai city .....Priced at Rs30 for 100grams of Ice cream .We get a wide variety of Sundaes available:

Pure passion
Butter scotch icecream with honey, praline and almonds.

Chip 'N' Dale
Cream 'n' cookies icecream with strawberry sauce, praline and cashew.

Hawaiian dance
Pine colada icecream with pine apple sauce and cashew nuts.

Adam 'N' eve
Vanilla icecream and chocolate icecream with chocolate sauce, cookies and praline.

The devil's own
Almond crisp icecream and raj bhog icecream with kesar sauce, pista and almond.

Rock 'n' Roll
Fig 'n' honey icecream and run 'n' raisin icecream with butter scotch sauce.

Sweet suspense
Fruit salad icecream and Italian delight icecream with pineapple sauce, cashew nuts and raisins.

Tropical trip
Malai kulfi icecream and vanilla icecream topped with kesar sauce and pista nuts.

Heaven's gate
Caramella icecream and chocolate icecream with chocolate sauce, almonds, cashew nuts and chocolate.

Pied piper
Almond crisp icecream and almond 'n' cashew icecream with chocolate sauce & chocolate.

Last temptation
Almond crisp icecream and malai kulfi icecream with kesar sauce, butter scotch sauce, cookies and praline.

Flaming forest
Tangy orange icecream, lime & lemony icecream and fig & honey icecream with pineapple sauce and dry dates.

Desert dream
Raj bhog icecream, malai kulfi icecream & cashew almond icecream with kesar sauce pista and cashew nuts.

The prices are determined on the weight . It is more cheaper then trying some other ice cream parlor . My favorite is Desert Ice cream ....It has Raj Bhog and Special Kulfi which is the Indian variety Ice cream . If you want the nutty taste then Cashew and almond is the best ice cream to try .To have the taste of wine then you must try Rum & Raisin.
They also have lot of sauces and topping for ice cream such as nuts ,raisins, praline,honey, cherry.The favorite sauce is butterscotch and Kesar badam ...I love to have a Chocolate sauce that freezes over the ice cream to give a wonderful taste with ice cream. The quality of ice cream is also good .During this summer the shops are busy and buzzing ......
Currently operational at Chennai's leading shopping mall - Spencer plaza and also stand alone parlours at Annanagar(Shanthi colony Just below cascade restaurant), R.K.Salai , Besant nagar, Egmore(very near to Don Bosco),Mylapore (Next to Nilgris) and Velachery( 7th Main Road Near VijayaNagar Bus Stand road) etc

I would rate this place 9/10

Additional Information

Well-decorated parlours where cleanliness given top priority
Convenient working hours (10 A.M to 10 P.M.)
Regular maintenance of freezer to keep them functioning at optimum levels

How to beat Chennai's Heat

2009-05-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Watermelons and Musk Melon(Kirini)to Beat the Chennai Heat!
Are you looking for ways to beat the heat in Chennai this summer? Here are a few “cool” tips for you…

Summer has started at Chennai!.. Agni Nakshatram (Fire Star) (in reference to the hottest part of May in South India) . Watermelons at every departmental store & on the Chennai pavements. Watermelon as you are aware is a popular summer fruit; there is nothing more refreshing than a slice of watermelon to beat the Chennai heat.

When you purchase; it is important to pick a thoroughly ripe watermelon in order to receive the greatest benefit. A good watermelon should be firm, crisp, juicy flesh & never dry or fibrous.However, besides being just a thirst quencher in the hot and humid days, the manifold nutritional benefits of watermelon makes it an all time favorite for daily meals and snacks. Watermelow cost 7Rs per kilo .The best place to buy a watermelon is T-Nagar (Raganathan Street Vegetable Market) or Koyambedu Market.

Kirini(Musk Melon)

This is the local fruit of Tamilnadu, ....In local language it is called "molampalam" . It must be eaten once the fruit is ripe .. When the fruit is ripe it brusts with small cracks .. then you can peel the skin and mix with sugar to make a nice juice . The fruit has a lot of water content and vitamins to get you cooled during summer.

There are 3 varities of kirini , Two of the varities from tamilnadu and one karnataka( which is orange in colour . expensive then the local variety and small ) . The other variety is yellow in colour and 3 of them costs 30 Rs to 40Rs according to size

Chill pill for Chennai's sweltering heat

Get a “cool” drink…the humble nimbu pani…desi lemonade(Lime juice Rs 10 ) is an all-time favourite. Bite in to a succulent red slice of watermelon and feel the tingling sensation as the juice dribbles down your face. Coconut juice cools and detoxifies; do remember to ask the vendor to scoop out the silky soft insides for a more “filling” experience.

Try “koozh,” a mixture of ragi, boiled rice water, buttermilk, chopped onions, a dash of pickle, and spiced lightly with green chillies. This is an excellent coolant. What’s more, it can help you get rid of a hangover too.

The best solution is drinking lot of water and carrying a water bottle with you always as water packets and bottled water are not so safe.

Parvathi Bhavan : Tasty chats(since 1982)

2009-04-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Parvathi Bhavan Sweets

Address: No C 27 Ad Block New No 185, 2nd Avenue, Anna Nagar, Ch-600040
Phone: 26215892,42170564
Locality:Annanagar
Landmark: Near Blue Star Bus Stop(Annanagar)
Cuisine Type: Chat items and Sweets

If you are in annanagar and looking for a tasty snacks then Parvathi Bhavan is the right place to be in . The Bhel puri (Rs 22) is the one of the best in chennai . Samosa(Rs 7) may be small but they are chrispy and tasty . The shop is also famous for mouth-watering Badam milk (Rs 25) and Rasmalai (Rs 20).The snacks here are much tastier and cheaper than those in big banner shops.

It is a small shop around 20 people can only dine at a time . The shop is very busy in the evenings as it is situated in main road .They server murruku and many other sweets . The name is distinct it is "Parvathi Bhavan ssweets" to distinguish from other shops .

They have another branch in Alwarpet( T.T.K . road , Rathna Building ) as well . A nice place to have a Crispy chat in the evening.

I would rate this place 7/10.

Additional Information

Pure vegetarian
Air conditioned
Credit cards accepted
Sodexho accepted
Moderate Price -- Rs 50 for 2
Timings :8:00am to 10:00pm

Namma Chennai- Marina Beach

2009-04-23T08:28:00.000-07:00

Marina Beach

Google map : Marina Beach
The Marina Beach is a beach situated along a 12 km shoreline in the city of Chennai, India along the Bay of Bengal,The Marina Beach is the second largest beach in a city and the world's longest city beach.

The entire stretch of the Chennai Beach Road called Kamarajar Salai, has numerous statues and monuments that have come up over the years along the beach.The beach is a major tourist attraction is popular for its shopsand food stalls. The memorials and statues, morning walk, joggers’ track, lovers’ spot, aquarium, etc., make it a hangout for people of all ages.

This famous Chennai Beach includes the Besant Nagar Beach and the Elliot’s Beach. In those days, Marina Beach used to be known for its pristine beauty and rich ecosystems. However, the beach and the water has become polluted, since the middle of the 20th century.In recent years, many voluntary organizations have taken up the task of cleaning up the Marina Beach and protecting the ecosystem.Particular efforts include protection of Olive Ridley turtle nests along the Neelangarai section of the beach. Despite these problems however, a visit to the Marina is a sine qua non for any tourist coming to Chennai.

Mahatma Gandhiji (Father of Indian Nation)

Gandhiji's statue is in the center of the Marina Beach

The beach begins near Fort St. George in the north to Besant Nagar in the south, a distance of about 12km.[1] A famous characteristic of the beach is the set of stone statues that adorn the roadside area of the beach. Most statues are of Indian/local legends like Mahatma Gandhi, Kannagi, Thiruvalluvar, while others have symbolic significance like the Statue of Labour. Also memorials for M. G. Ramachandran and C. N. Annadurai, former Chief ministers of Tamil Nadu are present on the beach. Recently, a statue of the legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan was installed.

Chevalier Sivaji Ganesan (Tamil Actor)

Historical buildings, Monuments and Institutions on the Chennai Beach – Marina:

You may also find memorials of M. G. Ramachandran and C. N. Annadurai, former Chief ministers of Tamil Nadu and statues of legendary people including

* Robert Caldwell
* Constanzo Beschi (Veerama Munivar)
* Truimph of Labour Statue
* Kannagi
* Subramaniya Barathiyar
* Subhash Chandra Bose
* George Uglow Pope
* Thiruvalluvar
* Dr. Annie Besant
* Kavignar Bharathidasan
* Actor Sivaji Ganesan
* Mahatma Gandhi
* Kamarajar
* M. G. Ramachandran

Apart from the statues of legendary people mentioned above, you may find the following Historical buildings, Monuments and Institutions along the stretch of the Marina Beach.

* Victoria War Memorial
* Anna Memorial
* MGR Memorial
* University of Madras
* Public Works Department
* Vivekananda House
* Commissioner of Police Headquarters
* Forensic Science Department
* All India Radio, Chennai
* Light House
* Presidency College
* Queen Marys College
* Lady Wellington School

If you visit Chennai, don’t miss the famous Marina Beach…

Vivenkanandar House(Ice House)

2009-04-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Vivekananda House (Ice House)

Vivekananda House, also known as Ice House, is a shrine and target of pilgrimage for the admirers of Swami Vivekananda. This is remembered as the place where Swami Vivekananda stayed for nine days when he visited Chennai (then Madras) in 1897. Vivekanandar Illam now houses a permanent exhibition on Swami Vivekananda set up by the Chennai branch of the Ramakrishna Math.

Built way back in 1877 , the two-story house is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture with its characteristic designs of sunburst and gabled roof. The bedroom where Vivekananda stayed, lived and slept is now a safe haven for meditation. One can respectfully see the table at which he dined, placed downstairs near the fireplace. Devotees can stroll through the kitchen where he cooked his simple food, the parlor where he spoke and the garden where he frequently played with the children. These physical reminders of the life of Swami Vivekananda revive the great principles for which he stood all along his life.