Three best places to watch the rains in Chennai

It’s raining, it’s pouring, sitting at home can be boring. Agreed, rainy days are best enjoyed lazing under a duvet, with a book or a rom com on TV, but why stay cooped up indoors when there are places that offer a stunning view

Better associated with sunny days, when the sands gleam golden under the sun, this beach is just as dramatic a setting during the rains. You may not get to see the usual intrepid surfers riding waves, but the couples are still there, walking along the shore holding hands and enjoying the rains. The frothy crashing waves in the background only add to the appeal of the place. It’s almost like watching a romantic Bollywood song. Be sure to wade into the water if you don’t mind getting wet in the rain, and try using the sand as your canvas. It’s much more satisfying than trying to draw on dry sand.

Finally, find a table at Surf Turf that provides a panoramic view of the sea and the fishing village, tuck into their lemon butter fish and enjoy the rain before the Tamil Nadu weatherman tells you it’s over.

Priyadarshini Paitandy

Want to feel the wind in your face? You don’t need a fancy motorbike for that. All you need is ₹5.

Take the MRTS route from Beach-Velachery during the showers and enjoy the sights and sounds of a rain-swept Chennai on the move. Pro tip: get hold of a seat facing the beach for the best experience.

For those weary of the city’s sun-bathed roads in summer, this train ride plays out like a dream during the rains. We recommend to watch out for one particular stretch near the Chepauk-Thiruvellikeni line — that’s the spot where you can spot the Marina cricket ground, the Beach road and the sea... all at once. When it pours, it’s a sight to behold. And with some music and a packet of hot peanuts (they’re even available at some of the stations) for company, you’re all set.

Srinivasa Ramanujam

All I can recall from my first ever theatrical performance at Alliance Française of Madras (AFM) are the smiles, hugs and, oh yes, the rain. AFM looks so pretty and soulful when it starts to pour. Are you the quiet, reflective type, who thrives in the company of books and musings? A rain washed AFM is the place for you.

Make sure you grab that chair in the balcony on the first floor. The breeze is perfect for many a musing. On weekends, especially in the evenings, the place is bustling with thespians who come to watch the experimental plays. You will bump into interesting artistes and this is your adda for creative conversations and collaborations. During the day time, it teems with students who come to learn French.

Do not forget to make friends with Yusuf Bhai, the friendly café owner, who wins your heart with a smile and that perfectly brewed cup of coffee and chocolate cake. In fact, people flock to AFM just for his baked treats and flavourful rolls. The entire reading hall, an open area full of chairs and tables, is filled with delicious smells wafting from his oven.

This along with the smell of wet earth is something you can never say no to. And, the sight of trees and plants dancing wildly in the wind will be etched forever in your Madras memories.

Parshathy J Nath