Elliot Beach – Tamil Nadu
Popularly referred to as “Besant Nagar Beach or Bessie” is an extremely scenic beach called Elliot Beach in Tamil Nadu. This beautiful beach is located in Besant Nagar in the city of Chennai. In close proximity, to this beach lies the famous Velankanni Church. In addition, this beach named after the Governor of Madras during the British Raj Edward Elliot (1803-1820) is also considered to be one of the cleanest beaches in South India. Furthermore, a temple called Ashtalakshmi is also located on this beach.
Read More: Top 6 must visit Beaches in Puducherry
How to reach the Elliot Beach
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- By train:
The nearest railway station to this beach is located in Chennai. The Chennai Railway Station is well connected to major cities in the country such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Bangalore, Bhopal etc.
- By road:
If you intend to drive to this beach then the ideal starting points would be Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai.
- Via Bangalore:
There is one route from Bangalore to this beach, and it is via NH-48.
2. Via Chennai:
There is one route from Chennai to this beach, and it is via Kamarajar Promenade.
3. Via Coimbatore:
There is one route from Coimbatore to this beach, and it is via NH-79.
4. Via Madurai:
There is one route from Madurai to this beach, and it is via NH-38.
- By air:
The closest airport to this beach is located in Chennai. The Chennai international airport is well connected to major cities in the country as well as to international destinations.
Climate and the best time to visit Elliot Beach
The climate at this beach during the summer months which begins in March and ends in June is extremely “hot” with the mercury rising to a maximum of about 45 degree Celsius dropping to a minimum of 30 degree Celsius. The rainfall received during the monsoon season which begins in July and ends in September is “heavy”. While the winter season on the other hand which begins in November and ends in February is extremely “pleasant” with mercury dropping to a minimum of about 17 degree Celsius. So the ideal time to visit this place is during the winter season from November to February.
Things/activities to do
There is not much things/activities to do found at this beach apart from enjoying its picturesque surroundings. In close proximity, to this beach lies a 20-year-old Ashtalakshmi Temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi renowned for its modern architecture and hence worth a visit. In addition, the famous Velankanni Church dedicated to Our Lady of Health is located around this beach. This religiously significant church attracts a large number of ardent devotees every year.
Word of Caution
Apparently in the year 2010 there were about 11 drowning cases reported at this beach. These cases clearly indicating that water related activities such as swimming should be avoided at all costs since the sea situated alongside this beach is not safe.
Also Read: 10 Popular Beaches in South India
