The Leela Palace Chennai

Chennai

Formerly known as Madras, Chennai, on the south-eastern coast of India, is internationally famous for its textiles and especially its celebrated madras, a brightly colored silk or cotton fabric. Chennai is the economic, cultural and political heart of southern India. In the past, it was one of the most important ports for the famous British East India Company, a direct rival of the French outpost, Pondichery.

Today, Chennai is a lively and dynamic business and trade metropolis with about 4 million inhabitants. The city, which has enjoyed one of the strongest growth rates in India, has attracted a great many foreign companies and as a result, numerous business travellers. The rebirth of Chennai has awakened the curiosity of tourists as well, who want to discover an authentic Indian city on the sea where, although the ocean currents make swimming too dangerous, is an ideal venue for pleasant strolls. The diversity of Chennai is one of the major attractions of the city, most of whose inhabitants are Tamoul.

The construction of an overhead urban metro network with 48 kilometers of track was begun five years ago and is scheduled for completion in 2014. This realization will give Chennai the means to become southern India’s most important city. One of its most celebrated monuments is the Church of Saint Thomas, one of Christ’s apostles, who came to India to convert the Jewish population living here at the time. He died a martyr in 72 A.D.

A palace for everyone

Located along the sea, the Leela Palace which opened in 2012, is undoubtedly Chennai’s most luxurious hotel. Whereas other establishments here are totally aimed at the business traveller, the Leela Palace is open to everyone. Its idea of luxury is one of rare opulence and splendor. As soon as guests arrive in the lobby, they are confronted with incredible spaces and a lobby-lounge whose ten meters never seems to end!

Created in a Chettinad style, the hotel possesses large marble columns and impressive chandeliers. The perspectives are a delight for visitors. Contemporary works of art are displayed throughout the hotel, like for example, the painting near the reception area which depicts the first rupee, a simple but beautiful work of art whose strong colors and very clear lines, are a perfect metaphor of the hotel.

The bar is a cozy and charming space which is lit in blue at night. The 2 gastronomic restaurants, one Asian and one specifically Indian, are as visually sumptuous as their dishes are refined. Guests should make certain not to miss visiting the 3^rd floor with the most beautiful swimming pool in Chennai, surrounded by manicured gardens. It’s an exceptional site which adds a supplementary charm to this extraordinary hotel…not to mention the rooms with their volumes, elegance and beauty.

Carefully selected works of art, luxurious textiles and noble materials make each of the 326 rooms and suites the setting for unforgettable memories.

The Chettinad style refers to a region in the southern part of the state of Tamil Nadu in India. Karaikudi, the regional capital, is famous for its gastronomy, its architecture and its religious temples.