Chengalpattu (formerly Chingleput) is a historic town and district headquarters in Tamil Nadu, India, located 56 km south of Chennai. Known as the "Gateway of Chennai" and the "Lake City," it is a major residential, commercial, and industrial hub. Formerly a Vijayanagara fortress and key British base, it features attractions like Kolavai Lake and proximity to Mahabalipuram.
A town rich in natural beauty and ancient temples, Chengalpattu is also a growing urban centre. Believed to have derived its name from ‘chenkazhuneer poo’ which is a type of lily found aplenty in this region, Chengalpattu has been witnessing developmental activities over the past few years, making it an ideal town to work and live in. Located just 56 kms away form the State capital of Chennai, Chengalpattu is often referred to as the ‘Gateway of Chennai’.
One of the main attractions of the region is the Kovalai lake. The area offers spectacular views to the visitors and is a place to spend time and relax. What makes Chengalpattu special is the rich history that the region has behind it. Chengalpattu was an erstwhile base of the Vijayanagar Kings and the French in India. The town was formerly a capital of the Vijayanagara Kings. A fortress that was built by the kings of Vijayanagara in the 16th century was for a period of time a location of great strategic importance. Later the Fort turned out to be a location of importance to the British as well.
By 1900, Chengalpattu had become a town of trade and commerce, with manufacturing of pottery and rice trade. A local market centre was developed and it became the hub of these commercial activities. The surrounding areas witnessed many other commercial undertakings including cotton & silk weaving, a salt manufacturing unit, a cigar factory, tanneries, indigo dyeing and so on.
Key Aspects of Chengalpattu:
Geography & Climate: Situated on the north-east coast, it is surrounded by Kancheepuram, Chennai, and Vilupuram districts. The region has a tropical wet and dry climate, with significant monsoon rainfall.
History: The town is ancient, dating back to the 2nd century BCE (early Chola dynasty) and served as a capital for Vijayanagar kings. It was later taken by the French in 1751 and retaken by the British in 1752.
Economy & Infrastructure: It is a major industrial hub with proximity to IT parks (OMR/GST road). The area is known for rice trading and, historically, pottery, silk weaving, and tanneries.
Tourism: Top attractions include the scenic Kolavai Lake, the 16th-century Chengalpattu Fort, and proximity to Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and Mahabalipuram (UNESCO site).
District Formation: The district was officially created on November 29, 2019, by separating it from the former Kancheepuram district.
The town is also a significant railway junction and hosts several educational institutions.
