Chennai is home to many beaches and Thiruvanmiyur Beach
in its suburbs is becoming a popular spot for youngsters and tourists who want
to enjoy some fresh sea breeze. Thiruvanmiyur is in South Chennai,
very close to the IT corridor. The one-kilometer stretch of Thiruvanmiyur Beach
extends along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) leading to Mamallapuram
(Mahabalipuram) and Puducherry (Pondicherry). Less populated with clean golden
sands and clean sea waters is perfect to enjoy water sports or just a dip.
Thiruvanmiyur Beach is a pretty, sandy stretch of beach
that you can head to for some fresh sea air. Sunrises are worth watching from
here – a sight that will enchant you as you watch the sun emerge from the horizon,
and its rays paint the sky and the sea in a dizzying array of colors. Another
appealing factor of Thiruvanmiyur Beach is its cleanliness. The local Kuruva
groups are involved in cleaning up the beach and many international coastal
clean-up programs take place here as well. Trees have been planted along the
entire stretch of the beach and there are comfy seating arrangements too.
Since the residential area around this beach is occupied
predominantly by young professionals working in the IT/ITES industries (that
thrive in the area), this beach has turned into a hot-spot for them. It is less
polluted and environment friendly. Those who look for a calm, cool and breezy
place to relax, this beach is the best place in Chennai.
During the Olive Ridley nesting season, many turtles
come to the shoreline at Thiruvanmiyur Beach to lay their eggs. There is a
Students Sea Turtle Conservation Network that works towards protecting these
endangered species of turtles. The Corporation also ensures that there are no
extra lighting arrangements that would interfere with the hatching process of
these turtles, since they are inclined to move towards the lights and away from
the sea. If you are here during the nesting season, sign on for a Turtle Walk –
these happen at night and if you are lucky, you could spot a turtle or two
making its way in and laying eggs.
If the crowds at Marina Beach and Elliot’s Beach in
Chennai seem overwhelming, then Thiruvanmiyur Beach will appeal to you. This
serene stretch is not as commercialized or crowded as the other two beaches.
The Beach Walkers promenade is very popular with the local residents. Foodies
can enjoy the many eateries around Thiruvanmiyur Beach. There are many fish
stalls dotting the area where you can enjoy freshly prepared seafood like fried
fish, prawn or squid. If you’d like to stay near the beach there are many
guest houses, lodges and resorts close by.
Close to Thiruvanmiyur Beach is the popular
Marundeeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. You could also visit Kala Kshetra
which is world famous; this institution was the brainchild of Rukmini Devi
Arundale and is dedicated to the preservation, teaching and development of
Indian culture, tradition, dance and art forms. Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram,
famous for its gorgeous rock-cut temples, is a mere 45-minute drive from
Thiruvanmiyur and is a must-visit destination.
Connectivity
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