Chennai Shopping

Early History of Chennai 

Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital city of Tamil Nadu and one of the oldest modern cities in India. Long before European colonisation, the region around Chennai was part of powerful South Indian kingdoms such as the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, and later the Vijayanagara Empire. These dynasties contributed to temple architecture, trade, art, and administration. 

Important early settlements like Mylapore, Triplicane, and Thiruvanmiyur  areas in present day Chennai ,existed as busy towns with strong maritime trade links to Southeast Asia and the Roman world. Mylapore, in particular, was an important cultural and religious centre. By the 16th century, the area consisted of small fishing villages ruled by local Nayak governors under the Vijayanagara Empire. 

 Colonisers Who Settled In and Around It 

Arrival of European Colonisers 

From the 16th century onwards, European powers began arriving along the Coromandel Coast to control trade routes, especially for spices, textiles, and precious goods. Chennai became an important site due to its coastal location. 

1. Portuguese 

The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in the Chennai region in the early 16th century. 

• They settled mainly in Mylapore, which became a Portuguese stronghold. 

• The Portuguese introduced Christianity and built churches, including San Thome Basilica, believed to house the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. 

• Mylapore remained under Portuguese influence until it was taken over by the British in the 18th century. 

2. Dutch 

The Dutch East India Company established trading posts along the Coromandel Coast during the 17th century. 

• They settled near Pulicat (Pazhaverkadu), north of Chennai. 

• Pulicat served as the capital of Dutch Coromandel and an important port for textile trade. 

• The Dutch also built forts and warehouses to protect their trade interests. 

• Their influence declined by the late 18th century due to competition from the British. 

3. British (English) 

The British had the greatest and most lasting impact on Chennai. 

• In 1639, the British East India Company obtained land from the local ruler, Damarla Venkatapathy Nayak. 

• In 1640, they built Fort St. George, which marked the foundation of modern Chennai. 

• The area around the fort grew into the city of Madras. 

• Madras became the capital of the Madras Presidency, one of the most important administrative regions of British India. 

The British introduced modern systems of administration, education, railways, law, and urban planning. Many colonial-era buildings such as the High Court, Senate House, and Secretariat are legacies of British rule. 

4. French (Limited Influence) 

Although the French did not directly control Chennai, they were active nearby. 

• Their main base was Puducherry (Pondicherry), south of Chennai. 

• The French and British often fought for control of South Indian territories during the Carnatic Wars. 

• At certain times, the French temporarily occupied Madras, notably between 1746–1749, before the city was returned to the British. 

5. Danish (Indirect Presence) 

The Danes had a small presence along the Tamil coast. 

• Their main settlement was Tranquebar (Tharangambadi), south of Chennai. 

• While they did not settle directly in Chennai, they participated in regional trade and missionary activity.

Growth into a Major Colonial City 

Under British rule, Madras developed rapidly into a port city, industrial centre, and educational hub. Institutions such as Madras University and IIT Madras (established later, in independent India) trace their roots to the city’s long emphasis on education. 

After India’s independence in 1947, Madras continued to grow and was officially renamed Chennai in 1996, reflecting its Tamil heritage. 

Chennai Shopping Places

Chennai Shopping for Handicrafts

The shops in the city  have a fantastic range of handicrafts based on its historic past. The aesthetics and designs of the handicrafts produced in the State of Tamil Nadu are truly fascinating. The city is a treasure trove of huge bronze sculptures and brass artefacts. The Temples and the Temple architecture have decidedly contributed to handicrafts in Chennai.  As a matter of fact, silver and brass puja items,  related to religious practices are extensively available here. Check out the shop Giri Brothers in Mylapore.

Other popular items in the Chennai Shopping list should include granite stone sculptures, Tanjore paintings,  woven palm leaf baskets and mats. Some of the best shops for handicrafts are VTI and Poompuhar. Palm Leaf basket is available in the store, Manjal. Kashmiri Carpets are also available in several shops in the city.

Chennai shopping for Gold Jewellery

Chennai Shopping should also include shopping for gold jewellery. The Temple jewellery and antique jewellery available in Chennai are probably the best in India. Vummudi Bangaru Chetty and Prince Jewellers are popular shops for gold and diamond jewellery. Classical dance jewellery and dance costumes are also best bought in Chennai. Shanthi Tailors & Sukra silver Jewellery are two of the best shops in Chennai. They are in the Mylapore shopping Market.

Chennai shopping for Kanjivaram Silk Sarees

Finding exquisite Kanjivaram Silk sarees and Kanchi cotton sarees  is definitely not a challenge in Chennai. Kanchipuram, which is 70 km from Chennai is where the Kanjivaram silk sarees are woven. One can also visit Kanchipuram to buy silk sarees in bulk.  Brides and families usually do a day trip to Kanchipuram for wedding purchases. Further, Nalli Silks , Tulsi Silks, Sundari Silks and Kumaran Silks are other popular shops for their collection of Kanjivaram Silk Sarees.

In addition to traditional silk saree purchases, Chennai has a huge market for North Indian lehenga dresses and sarees. In addition, there are several designer wear stores in Nungambakkam Market area.

Chennai Shopping places – Chennai Malls

The opening of the Chennai shopping malls such as The Express Avenue Mall and the Phoenix Mall has introduced Chennai shoppers to international branded stores.

The Forum Vijaya mall & Spencer Plaza are also popular.

Conclusion 

Chennai’s history is shaped by centuries of indigenous rule followed by European colonisation. The Portuguese, Dutch, French, and especially the British played significant roles in shaping the city’s architecture, culture, and institutions. Today, Chennai stands as a blend of ancient Tamil traditions and colonial influences, making it a city of immense historical and cultural importance. 

Short Trips from Chennai 

Chennai, located on the southeastern coast of India, is surrounded by many interesting destinations that are ideal for short trips. These places offer a mix of heritage, nature, beaches, hill views, and pilgrimage sites, making them perfect for one‑day or weekend getaways. 

1. Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) 

Located about 60 km south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram is one of the most popular short trips. 

• It is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site monuments built by the Pallavas. 

• Major attractions include the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance. 

• The town also offers beautiful beaches and ancient rock‑cut architecture. 

Mahabalipuram can easily be covered in a one‑day trip. 

2. Kanchipuram 

Kanchipuram, around 75 km from Chennai, is known as the “City of Thousand Temples.” 

• It is one of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism. 

• Famous temples include Ekambareswarar Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, and Varadaraja Perumal Temple. 

• The city is also world‑famous for Kanchipuram silk sarees. 

It is a popular pilgrimage and cultural destination. 

3. Tiruvannamalai 

Located approximately 195 km from Chennai, Tiruvannamalai is suitable for a weekend trip. 

• The main attraction is the Arunachaleswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

• The town is also known for the Girivalam (circumambulation of the holy hill). 

• It has spiritual significance and attracts devotees throughout the year. 

4. Pulicat Lake 

Pulicat Lake lies about 60 km north of Chennai and is ideal for nature lovers. 

• It is India’s second‑largest brackish water lagoon. 

• The lake is famous for migratory birds, especially flamingos during winter. 

• Nearby Pulicat town shows traces of Dutch colonial history. 

This is a peaceful one‑day eco‑tourism trip. 

5. Vellore 

Vellore is located around 140 km from Chennai. 

• The Vellore Fort, built in the 16th century, is a major historical attraction. 

• The Golden Temple (Sripuram Mahalakshmi Temple) is another important site. 

• The city also has educational and medical importance. 

It is suitable for both history and pilgrimage tourism. 

6. Yelagiri Hills 

Yelagiri, about 230 km from Chennai, is a calm hill station ideal for a short holiday. 

• It offers pleasant climate, trekking routes, and scenic views. 

• Attractions include Punganoor Lake, Jalagamparai Waterfalls, and hill trails. 

• It is less crowded than popular hill stations, making it ideal for relaxation. 

7. Chidambaram 

Located around 230 km from Chennai, Chidambaram is famous for its cultural heritage. 

• The Chidambaram Nataraja Temple is renowned for its association with classical dance and Shaivism. 

• The town holds religious and artistic significance. 

• Nearby places like Pichavaram Mangrove Forest add nature tourism value. 

8. Pondicherry (Puducherry) 

Pondicherry is around 150 km south of Chennai and is a very popular weekend destination. 

• It reflects French colonial architecture and culture. 

• Attractions include Promenade Beach, Aurobindo Ashram, and Auroville. 
• The city offers a unique blend of Indian and European styles. 

Read our detailed reviews on Chennai shopping markets, shopping malls and also the best shops in Chennai