chennai tourism guide

Chennai (Madras)

If you have time to explore Chennai (formerly Madras), this 284-sq-mi (400-sq-km) conglomerate of urban villages and diverse neighborhoods making up Tamil Nadu's capital will pleasantly surprise you. Its role is as keeper of South Indian artistic, religious and culinary traditions.

Free Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Government Museum

Housed across from the striking British-built Pantheon Complex, this excellent museum is Chennai’s best. The big highlight is building 3, the Bronze…

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Mylapore is one of Chennai's most characterful and traditional neighbourhoods; it predated colonial Madras by several centuries. Its Kapaleeshwarar Temple…

San Thome Cathedral

This soaring Roman Catholic cathedral, a stone's throw from the beach, was founded by the Portuguese in 1523, then rebuilt by the British in neo-Gothic…

Producers of beautiful hand-printed books, this publishing company is based in southern Chennai. Visit its Book Building showroom, where you can browse,…

Vivekananda House

The marshmallow-pink Vivekananda House is interesting not only for its displays on the famous ‘wandering monk’, Swami Vivekananda, but also for its…

Book Building

Within this mural-covered space, Tara Books stages free exhibitions, author talks and workshops with visiting artists, and displays its own highly…

Sri Ramakrishna Math

The tranquil, flowery grounds of the Ramakrishna Math are a world away from Mylapore's chaos. Orange-robed monks glide around and there’s a reverential…

St Thomas Mount

The reputed site of St Thomas’ martyrdom in AD 72 rises in the southwest of Chennai, 2.5km north of St Thomas Mount train station. The Church of Our Lady…

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Chennai Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to Do & Other Chennai Travel Essentials

Chennai, the lively capital of Tamil Nadu, is a city that seamlessly merges both the historic and modern. Chennai provides a unique travel experience. It is well-known for its rich cultural legacy, ancient sites, and dynamic arts culture. Chennai has something to offer every kind of traveler, from historic temples and colonial buildings to beautiful beaches and bustling marketplaces. Explore the top attractions, must-do activities, and essential tips for traveling to and around with the help of this comprehensive Chennai Travel Guide.

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Would you like to visit this city and make a last-minute plan? Don’t worry for those planning a spontaneous trip, you can secure cheap last minute flights to Chennai with Indian Eagle.

Top Chennai Tourist Places

Marina Beach :

As the longest beach in India , Marina Beach is one of the best places in Chennai. Stretching over 13 km, this beach is perfect for a morning walk, enjoying the sunrise, or simply relaxing by the sea. The beach is lined with food stalls, making it a great place to taste local snacks.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple :

This iconic temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a good example of Dravidian architecture. One of the most ancient and popular temples in Chennai is Kapaleeshwarar Temple, which is situated in Mylapore. It’s a visual treat due to the elaborate carvings and colorful gopuram (tower).

Fort St. George :

The Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and a museum are currently housed in Fort St. George. It is a historic site that was constructed by the British in 1644. The museum offers an insight into the city’s colonial past by displaying objects from the British era, such as coins, firearms, and paintings. 

San Thome Basilica :

The Roman Catholic basilica, which is built upon Saint Thomas the Apostle’s tomb, is an architectural masterpiece. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike because of its neo-Gothic architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Go with a Chennai local guide for exploring and learning about the history of the places.

Government Museum :

One of the oldest museums in India is the Government Museum, which is located in Egmore. It has a huge collection of artifacts, which includes coins, sculptures from antiquity, and a renowned bronze gallery. The National Art Gallery and the Connemara Public Library are also part of the museum complex.

Valluvar Kottam :

This monument, which honors Thiruvalluvar, a prominent poet and philosopher from Tamil, is a unique construction built like a temple chariot. It is a famous tourist place in Chennai for cultural events and provides information on Tamil literature and history. 

Things to Do in Chennai

• Explore Chennai’s Art Scene Visit the National Art Gallery to see some of the finest South Indian paintings and sculptures. Chennai’s colorful art culture reflects the dynamic artistic development of the city and can be seen in modern galleries and street art places.
• Culinary Tour No Chennai travel guide would be complete without recommending a culinary tour. Visit a local eatery to try the masala dosa, an iconic dish of Chennai, or savor the strong tastes and fragrant spices of Chettinad cuisine.
• Shopping in T. Nagar Explore the bustling marketplaces of T. Nagar to purchase anything from trendy Indian clothing to traditional silk sarees. It’s a lively location where bargaining is part of the enjoyment and discovering the ideal gift is an interesting task.
• Attend a Classical Dance Performance Visit the Kalakshetra Foundation to witness the beauty of Bharatanatyam, a traditional Tamil dance. The dance performances are more than just a trance they are powerful narrative and emotional expressions.
• Day Trips from Chennai Visit the historic seaside village of Mahabalipuram, which is only an hour away and is well-known for its 7th-century rock-carved temples and other monuments. If you are planning the road trip then you must go through the Chennai tour guide first and then begin your ride.

Chennai Festivals

When it comes to festivals and cultures of South India, Tamil Nadu is one of those states in India that has carefully maintained its traditions. There are various colorful festivals in Tamil Nadu celebrated throughout the year in the state. They include Pongal, Thaipusam, Thiruvaiyaru Festival, Natyanjali Dance Festival, Mahamaham, Tamil New Year’s Day, Karthigai Deepam, etc. And if you visit its capital city during this time, you’ll find many interesting things to do in Chennai during these festivals. 

Chennai is a city where urban development coexists with historical richness. What you can discover in this fascinating city is far beyond what the Chennai Travel Guide can tell you. All parts of Chennai, from its busy marketplaces to its serene beaches, provide a different kind of experience. For great flight offers, make sure to check out Indian Eagle deals if you’re thinking about visiting. With the best deals, you can fully immerse yourself in the rich Tamil culture while making sure your vacation to Chennai is both affordable and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What to know before visiting Chennai?

A. It is important to prepare for Chennai’s climate before arriving; wear light, breathable clothing and drink plenty of water. Also, learn about local customs and basic Tamil language to improve your interactions with locals.

2. Which area is best to stay in Chennai for tourists?

A. It is generally suggested that travelers stay in the T. Nagar region because it is a convenient and lively area with easy access to restaurants, shopping centers, and cultural attractions.

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States › Tamil Nadu › Chennai

Chennai Travel Guide

Vibrant, vivacious and vivid - Chennai's amazing amalgamation of the classical Tamil aestheticism with a new layer of cosmopolitan culture is definitely a treat for every traveller who decides to explore this coastal metropolitan city. Spanning a wide range of diverse attractions, the ample places to visit in Chennai will enthrall travellers to the core. Founded by the British in 1639, Chennai went on to emerge as a topmost tourist attraction apart from being the hub of Tamil politics, economy and culture. Beautiful beaches, a motley assortment of architectural wonders in the form of temples and numerous eateries offering delectable local and international fare - there are many points of interest in Chennai that will fill you up with charming experiences. While in the city, you will get a chance to relive the days of the Chalukya and the Chola Dynasties at the Government Museum, take a walk at India's first fortress built by the British, or observe the classic Dravidian architecture at the numerous temples sprinkled all over the city. For those who love outdoorsy things, the Guindy National Park or the campus of the Theosophical Society at Adyar is the place to be. The boulevard of the Theosophical Society is a great place to visit and take a stroll that eventually heads towards the San Thome Church.

Needless to say, this neo-Gothic Cathedral is an absolute treat to the eyes. Other must visit places in Chennai comprise a host of temples including the likes of Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Parthasarathy Temple. Both these shrines offer unique Dravidian architecture that leaves travellers in awe. Admire the timeless beauty of the temples and offer your prayers at these religious sites. The city's historic temples, churches, colourful markets, art-hubs always ensure that visitors have plenty of things to do in Chennai. Explore the city's government museum, visit the planetarium, watch sunset at Marina Beach as you grab some fried seafood snacks or go wildlife spotting at the Snake Park or at the Guindy National Park-Chennai will never fail to enthral you with its myriad experiences. In our Chennai travel guide we will tell you all about the several places to visit and some of the must do things in Chennai From offering prayers at the numerous temples to reliving the past at historical museums and forts to wildlife safaris at the few natural parks and strolling at the longest sea beach in Asia - we have covered it all.

Best Time to Visit Chennai

Chennai is located right on the banks of the Bay of Bengal and enjoys a tropical humid climate year-round. Summers are very hot and sunny while monsoons record moderate to heavy rainfall, thereby increasing the humidity levels in the air to a substantial extent. Winters are probably the best time to visit Chennai as the temperature is moderate and the weather is pleasant.

Chennai experiences severe summers. The summer season beginning from March extends almost till October, with some splashes of rains in between. However, the underlying warmness continues to remain year-round. Talking about hottest months, the duration from late May till mid-June records the highest temperature with mercury levels crossing 45° Celsius pretty often. Needless to say, that the scorching heat makes it nearly impossible to include Chennai as your summer vacation outing. However, the cool breeze of the sea, post sunset, offers some respite.

Just like pan-India, Chennai experiences monsoons from mid-June to September, though with an underlying warmness in the air. Humidity levels go up substantially accompanied by moderate to heavy rains. Though few travel junkies do visit Chennai during monsoons, exploring the city amidst rainfall can get somewhat difficult.

Winters are the best time to visit Chennai. With a slight warmth in the air, the weather is pretty much pleasant and makes for an ideal time to explore the city. Winters in Chennai are very short-lived spanning from November to February with January recording the lowest temperature. Temperature during winters range between 14°C and 22°C. Chennai also receives occasional splashes of rain during winters, making the weather all the more pleasant. A tour of Chennai during winters can be highly enjoyed.

Places to Visit and Things to Do in Chennai

Those who want to experience the authenticity of Tamil culture and soak into its savoir-faire clubbed with a strong modern-day cosmopolitan influence, Chennai is a must visit place. Right from offering prayers at the numerous religious shrines to taking a leisurely stroll at the longest beach in Asia to reliving the days of the yore at many historical architectures - a tour of Chennai will leave you asking for more.

Sri Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple

Located in Nanganallur, the Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple is prominent religious shrine in Chennai. The shrine attracts several tourists round the year. The temple's presiding deity happens to be Lord Hanuman. Standing tall at a height of 40 feet, the idol is believed to be the biggest Hanuman statue in India. Carved out of a single granite stone, the statue is slightly green in colour. The temple has corridors running from the main sanctum to other shrines.

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

Dedicated to Sai Baba, the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is a major place of worship that attracts thousands of devotees round the year. A peaceful-place, do remember to offer your prayers and seek blessings at this temple. One of the major features of the temple is that, they offer prasadam to each and every visitor and that too almost every minute.

Kapaleshwarar Temple

Built in the 7th century, the Kapaleshwarar Temple in Mylapore is an old shrine. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple boasts an impressive Dravidian architecture where devotees throng in large numbers throughout the year. The present structure is believed to have been reconstructed in the 16th century after the Portuguese destroyed the temple. The temple's most important feature happens to be a brightly coloured gopuram and a pillared mandapa.

Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam

Located in T Nagar, the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam is a popular religious shrine highly regarded by the Tamilians. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is said that the temple is one of the richest shrines in south India. Its popularity attracts devotees in large numbers throughout the year. Just like any other temples in south India, this shrine is also built in the typical Dravidian style of architecture, though its white in colour.

Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple

The Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple is yet another popular Hindu religious shrine in Chennai. The presiding deity of the temple happens to be Lord Vishnu. The statue of Lord Vishnu is here seen in a reclining posture with the five-headed serpent and worshipping a Shiva Lingam. One cannot stop admiring the beauty of the deity. Built in 1962, the temple boasts of a south-Indian architecture and is highly revered among the Malayali community of Chennai.

Thousand Lights Mosque

Located in Anna Salai, the Thousand Lights Mosque is prominent place of worship in Chennai. Built in 1820, the mosque's medieval Indo Saracenic architectural is highly admirable. It is said that, the hall inside the mosque is so huge that 1000 lamps were used to lit it up. Since then, the mosque came to be known as Thousand Lights Mosque. The shrine is highly regarded by the Shia community.

Ramakrishna Temple

As the name suggests, the Ramkrishna Temple is dedicated to the famous saint and religious reformer, Ramakrishna Paramhansa. The temple was founded in 1897 by Swami Ramakrishnananda, a direct disciple of the former who came to Chennai to spread his guru's message. It has the idols of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. The temple authorities are actively involved in social development and offers free education to underprivileged children and rehabilitation to the needy.

Sri Parthasarathy Temple

The Parthasarathy Temple is yet another prominent shrine in the city of Chennai that attracts thousands of devotees year-round. Situated in Triplicane, the temple is one of the oldest shrines and was built in the 8th century AD by the rulers of the Pallava Dynasty with later addition by the Cholas and the Vijaynagar Empire. An ultimate example of Dravidian architecture, the myriad Tamil and Telugu inscriptions on the temple are worth noting.

St. George Fort and Museum

One of the prominent places of interest in Chennai, the St. George Fort and Museum was built by the British in 1653. Since its inception, the structure has undergone several facelifts and today happens to be centre of Tamil Nadu's legislative assembly. The museum in the fort displays on Chennai's origins and the fort, an interesting military memorabilia and an extensive artwork from colonial times. Read more

San Thome Cathedral and Basillica

The white neo-gothic cathedral leaves behind an indelible impression on the visitors with its 180 feet tall spire. Considered one of the holiest shrines of Christianity, the Basilica has the remains of St Thomas, (one of Jesus' 12 apostles) who came here to preach. The church was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, later reconstructed in its latest form on 1898. Read more

Vivekananda House and Museum

Dedicated to the famous religious reformer, the Vivekananda House and Museum is another must visit place in Chennai. The house is remembered as the place where Swami Vivekananda stayed for a while after returning from the US. Spherical in shape and rising three-storey high, the structure is located in the busy locality of Kamaraj Salai. There's a museum that houses several photos and events from the great monk's life.

Marina Beach

The Marina Beach happens to one of the main attractions of this coastal city. Sprawling over a distance of more than 13 kilometres, the coastline is the longest in Asia and the second longest in the world after the Miami Beach, Florida. It runs from Fort St. George in the north to Besant Nagar in the south. Travellers must make it a point to visit this landmark of Chennai while in the city. Early morning and dusk are the best time to visit the coastline when a cool breeze flows from the sea. Read more

Government Museum

History lovers and culture vultures can have an awesome time exploring the Government Museum of the city. The museum is a treasure trove of artefacts from the 6th century onwards and houses artefacts from all major south Indian kingdoms like the Cholas, the Chalukyas, the Hoysalas and the Pallavas. There are also certain galleries dedicated to zoology and natural history. One of the major highlights is the National Art Gallery that some artefacts belonging to the Deccani, Rajasthani and even Mughal dynasties. Read more

Guindy National Park and Snake Park

One of the smallest national parks of India, the Guindy National Park and its adjacent Snake Park are also prominent tourist attractions in the city. It is also one of the very few national parks located within a main city. The park is home to several rare species of animals including blackbucks, spotted deer, jackals, a variety of snakes, lizards, geckos and tortoises. The park attracts more than 700,000 visitors every year.

Elliot's Beach

Located roughly 60 kilometres away from the city centre, the Elliot's Beach is yet another prominent coastline in the city of Chennai. Also known as Bessie Beach, the coastline lies extreme south of the Marina Beach and is quite popular with the youngsters of the city. There's a lot to do in this tranquil beach - watch the sun set across the horizon, build sand castles on the beach or simply lie on the beach and enjoy the cool breeze. Read more

Where to Stay in Chennai?

As a metropolitan city, it goes without saying that there are host of accommodation options in the city catering to all kinds of travellers. Whether you are an international traveller or travelling from a different part of the country, you can choose accommodations in the city as per your taste. Be it budget hotels or mid-range ones at a central location or high-end hotels overlooking the sea - you can find all kinds of options in Chennai.

How to Reach Chennai?

Being a state capital and a prominent metropolitan city, Chennai is easily accessible from all over India. Right from Assam in the extreme northeast to the extreme west coast of Gujarat - travellers can avail major modes of transport to reach Chennai. From railways to airways to roadways, every means of transport is bound towards Chennai.

If you are travelling to the city by air, you need to land at the Chennai International Airport. The airport is well-connected by several domestic and international airlines that ply several times a day.

The main railway station for the city happens to be the Chennai Central Station. The junction is extremely well-connected with numerous local and express trains throughout India. Train tickets can be booked online beforehand.

Chennai can be reached via road as well since the city is very well connected by a wide network of roads. Several National Highways (NH) and State Highways connect Chennai to hundreds of Indian cities. If you are adventurous enough you can choose to opt for a road trip to Chennai from Kolkata via NH 16. On the other hand, if you are travelling from Bengaluru, you have to take NH 48 and while travelling from Thiruvananthapuram you have to take NH 38.

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There's an abundance of culture, tradition, art, craft, nature, and wildlife experiences awaiting in Tamil Nadu. Choose from our wide array of Tamil Nadu travel packages and get that incredible holiday experience at this colour palette kind of a destination. We design the finest tour packages keeping your likes and dislikes in mind so that you are guaranteed a holistic travelling experience that too in a budget of your choice.

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Chennai is India ’s fourth largest city. It's located in the northeastern corner of Tamil Nadu on the Bay of Bengal, with a population nudging ten million. Hot, congested and noisy, it’s the major transport hub of the south and a tourist destination in its own right. The attractions of the city are diverse. It boasts fine specimens of Raj architecture, pilgrimage sites connected with the apostle, Doubting Thomas, superb Chola bronzes at its state museum, and plenty of classical music and dance performances.

The best travel tips for visiting Chennai

Best things to do in chennai, best areas to stay in chennai, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit chennai, how many days do you need in chennai, how to get here, travel ideas for india, created by local experts.

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Indian Wildlife Safari

Meet Bengals, birds, monkeys, leopards and more on an amazing wildlife extravaganza visiting India's famous national parks. Experience the countryside by rail, soak up some culture at the Taj Mahal and Rantahnbore Fort and finish with some shopping and sightseeing in the bustling capital, Dehli.

India: from the Ganges to the Golden Triangle

From Dehli's bustling dusty streets to 'the pink city' of Jaipur and Agra's Taj Mahal, this trip ensures you experience all of India's Golden Triangle highlights. You'll visit sacred Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges and Khajuraho's famous temples too.

Magical Kerala

The intense greens of the Kerala backwaters, overhung by innumerable coconut palms, encapsulate tropical India like nowehere else. Enjoy a lazy cruise on a converted rice barge; visit fragrant spice plantations, explore Cochi and spot local wildlife.

Geographically, Chennai divides into three main sectors.

North of the River Cooum stands Fort St George, site of the first British outpost in India, and George Town, the commercial centre, which developed during British occupation. George Town’s principal landmark is Parry’s Corner, located at the southern end of Rajaji Salai.

Sandwiched between the Cooum and Adyar rivers is central Chennai, the modern, commercial heart of the metropolis, crossed and served by the city’s main thoroughfare, Anna Salai.

East of Anna Salai is the atmospheric old Muslim quarter of Triplicane and beyond is the long straight Marina with its massive beach, fishing boats and hordes of domestic tourists, saris and trousers hitched up, enjoying a paddle.

Further south along the coast is the district of Mylapore, inhabited by the Portuguese in the 1500s, with its two important places of pilgrimage and tourist attractions, Kapalishvara Temple and San Thomé Cathedral.

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Kapaleeshwarar temple, Chennai © Shutterstock

From one of the longest city beaches in the world to Cholamandal Artists’ Village here are the best things to do in Chennai

#1 Marvel at Fort St George

Fort St George is quite unlike any other fort in India. Facing the sea amid state offices, it looks more like a complex of well-maintained colonial mansions than a fort.

Many of its buildings are today used as offices and are a hive of activity during the week. It is now the house of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the Secretariat.

The fort was the first structure of Madras town and the first territorial possession of the British in India. Construction began in 1640 but most of the original buildings were damaged during French sieges and replaced later that century.

The most imposing structure is the slate-grey-and-white eighteenth-century colonnaded Fort House.

#2 Explore Fort Museum in Chennai

The collection within faithfully records the central events of the British occupation of Madras with portraits, regimental flags, weapons, East India Company coins, medals, stamps and thick woollen uniforms that make you wonder how the Raj survived as long as it did.

The first floor is now an art gallery, where portraits of prim officials and their wives sit side by side with fine sketches of the British embarking at Chennai in aristocratic finery, attended by Indians in loincloths.

Also on display are etchings by the famous artist Thomas Daniell, whose work largely defined British perceptions of India at the end of the eighteenth century.

#3 Seek out St Mary’s Church

South of the Fort Museum, past the State Legislature, stands the oldest surviving Anglican Church in Asia, St Mary’s, built in 1678 and partly renovated after the battle of 1759.

It’s distinctly English in style, crammed with plaques and statues in memory of British soldiers, politicians and their wives.

The grandest plaque, made of pure silver, was presented by Elihu Yale, former governor of Fort St George (1687–96) and founder of Yale University.

A collection of photographs of visiting dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II, is on display in the entrance porch.

St Mary's Church in Chennai India © Shutterstock

#4 Wander around George Town

The former British trading centre of George Town remains the focal area for banks, offices, shipping companies and street stalls.

This network of streets harbours a fascinating medley of architecture: eighteenth- and nineteenth-century churches, Hindu and Jain temples and a scattering of mosques, interspersed with grand mansions.

In the east, on Rajaji Salai, the General Post Office occupies a robust earth-red Indo-Saracenic building constructed in 1884.

George Town’s southern extent is marked by the bulbous white domes and sandstone towers of the High Court and the even more opulent towers of the Law College, both showing strong Islamic influence.

#5 Check out the remarkable Government Museum

The Chennai Government Museum contains some remarkable archeological finds from south India and the Deccan.

Inside the deep-red, circular main building, built in 1851, the first gallery is devoted to archeology and geology; the highlights are the dismantled panels, railings and statues from the second-century AD stupa complex at Amaravati.

These carved marble reliefs of the Buddha’s life are widely regarded as the finest achievements of early Indian art.

To the left of here high, arcaded halls full of stuffed animals lead to the ethnology gallery, where models, clothes, weapons and photographs of expressionless faces in orderly lines illustrate local tribal societies, some long since wiped out.

A fascinating display of wind and string instruments, drums and percussion includes the large predecessor of today’s sitar and several old tablas.

The museum’s real treasure trove, however, is the modern wing, which contains the world’s most complete selection of Chola bronzes.

#6 See the sublime Georgian architecture of St Andrew’s Kirk

Just northeast of Egmore Station, St Andrew’s Kirk, consecrated in 1821, is a fine example of Georgian architecture.

Modelled on London’s St Martin-in-the-Fields, it’s one of just three churches in India with a circular seating plan, laid out beneath a huge dome painted blue with gold stars and supported by a sweep of Corinthian columns.

Marble plaques around the church give a fascinating insight into the kind of people who left Britain to work for the imperial and Christian cause.

A staircase leads onto the flat roof, surrounding the dome, from where you can climb further up into the steeple past the massive bell to a tiny balcony affording excellent views of the city.

#7 Relax at The Marina, one of the longest city beaches in the world

One of the longest city beaches in the world, the Marina (Kamaraj Salai) stretches 5km from the harbour at the southeastern corner of George Town to near San Thomé Cathedral.

Going south, you’ll pass the Indo-Saracenic Presidency College (1865–71), one of a number of stolid Victorian buildings that make up the University, as well as adjacent Vivekananda House.

The beach itself is a sociable stretch, peopled by idle paddlers, picnickers and pony-riders; every afternoon crowds gather around the beach market.

However, its location, just a little downstream from the port, which belches out waste and smelly fumes, combined with its function as the toilet for the fishing community, detract from its natural beauty.

Marina beach Chennai, India © Shutterstock

#8 Visit the interesting Vivekananda House

Housed in a splendidly rotund and ornate stone building, the nineteenth-century Madras depot of the Tudor Ice Company has been converted into the interesting Vivekananda House museum.

It offers an excellent account of the life of the nineteenth-century saint, Swami Vivekananda, who stayed here for some time in 1897. Now a branch of the Sri Ramakrishna Math organisation, the museum contains attractive visual displays of Hindu beliefs, as well as photographic and detailed textual material on Vivekananda’s life.

#9 Wander around Mylapore in Chennai

Long before Madras came into existence, Mylapore, south of the Marina, was a major settlement; the Greek geographer Ptolemy mentioned it in the second century AD as a thriving port. During the Pallava period (fifth to ninth centuries) it was second only to Mamallapuram.

Its two outstanding sights are the venerable San Thomé Cathedral and the mighty Kapalishvara Temple, while the Sri Ramakrishna Math also warrants a visit.

#10 See some early Portuguese maps of India inside San Thomé Cathedral

An important stop on the St Thomas pilgrimage trail, San Thomé Cathedral marks the eastern boundary of Mylapore, lying close to the sea at the southern end of the Marina on San Thomé High Road.

Although the present neo-Gothic structure dates from 1896, it stands on the site of two earlier churches built over the tomb of St Thomas.

The saint’s relics are kept inside the nave, accessed by an underground passage from the small museum at the rear of the courtyard, and are the object of great reverence.

The museum itself houses stones inscribed in Tamil, Sanskrit (twelfth-century Chola) and early Portuguese, and a map of India, dated 1519.

#11 Find peace at the Kapalishvara Temple

The huge Kapalishvara Temple sits just under 1 km west of the San Thomé Cathedral, off RK Mutt Road.

Seventh-century Tamil poet-saints sang its praises, but the present structure, dedicated to Shiva, probably dates from the sixteenth century. The huge (40m) gopura towering above the main east entrance, plastered in stucco figures, was added in 1906.

Surrounding an assortment of busy shrines, where priests offer blessings for devotees and non-Hindus alike, the courtyard features an old tree where a small shrine to Shiva’s consort, Parvati, shows her in the form of a peahen (mayil) worshipping a lingam.

#12 Saunter through the peaceful and extensive grounds of Sri Ramakrishna Math

A short walk south of the Kapalishvara Temple, lie the peaceful and extensive grounds of the Sri Ramakrishna Math, an active place of study for devotees wishing to follow the teachings of the famous nineteenth-century master.

The focus of interest for the casual visitor is the Universal Temple of Sri Ramakrishna, an elegant construction combining architectural motifs from Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples, as well as European churches.

The manicured forecourt echoes the Islamic themes of the Mughals.

Within the temple itself are a series of prayer halls, approached by steps, and the inner sanctum contains a solid marble statue of Ramakrishna seated on a lotus.

Sri Ramakrishna Math in Chennai © Shutterstock

#13 Seek refuge in the Little Mount Caves

St Thomas is said to have sought refuge from persecution in the Little Mount Caves, 8 km south of the city centre.

Entrance to the caves is beside steps leading to a statue of Our Lady of Good Health. Inside, next to a small natural window in the rock, are impressions of what are believed to be St Thomas’ handprints, created when he made his escape through this tiny opening.

Behind the new circular church of Our Lady of Good Health is a natural spring. Tradition has it that this was created when Thomas struck the rock, so the crowds that came to hear him preach could quench their thirst; samples of its holy water are on sale.

#14 Walk to the top of St Thomas Mount

It’s said that St Thomas was speared to death while praying before a stone cross on St Thomas Mount, 11km south of the city centre.

Our Lady of Expectation Church (1523), at the summit of the Mount, can be reached by 134 granite steps marked with the fourteen Stations of the Cross.

Alternatively, there is a road that curls its way to the top, where a huge old banyan tree provides shade for devotees who come to fast, pray and sing.

Inside the church, St Thomas’ cross is rumoured to have bled in 1558, while the altar is said to mark the exact spot of the apostle’s death; the painting of the Madonna and Child above the altar is attributed to St Luke.

#15 Explore the rare Tibetan xylographs at the Theosophical Society headquarters

The Theosophical Society was established in New York in 1875 by American Civil War veteran Colonel Henry S. Olcott and the eccentric Russian aristocrat Madame Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, who claimed to have occult powers.

Based on a fundamental belief in the equality and truth of all religions, the society in fact propagated a modern form of Hinduism, praising all things Indian and shunning Christian missionaries.

Needless to say, its two founders were greeted enthusiastically when they transferred their operations to Madras in 1882, establishing their headquarters near Elliot’s Beach in Adyar.

The society’s buildings still stand today, sheltering several shrines and an excellent library of books on religion and philosophy.

The collection includes 800-year-old scroll pictures of the Buddha; rare Tibetan xylographs; exquisitely illuminated Korans; a giant copy of Martin Luther’s Biblia printed in Nuremberg three hundred years ago; and a thumbnail-sized Bible in seven languages.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore, Chennai, India © Shutterstock

Finding an inexpensive place to stay in Chennai can sometimes be a problem.

With the 24hr check-out system, it’s difficult to predict availability and some of the cheaper places don’t take advance bookings.

The good news is that standards in the cheapies are better than in other cities.

Egmore and Triplicane

Most of the mid-range and inexpensive hotels are around the railway station in Egmore and further east in Triplicane.

To the south of Chennai

The bulk of the top hotels are in the south of the city and several offer courtesy buses to and from the airport.

Explore the best hotels to stay in Chennai.

Chennai offers the complete range of dining options you would expect from a major city.

The choice ranges from dirt-cheap vegetarian “meals” joints to high-class Westernised hotel restaurants, with some unique independent venues in between. Make sure you don't miss Saravana Bhavan, a south Indian fast-food chain, there are more than twenty branches dotted around the city.

Chennai’s bar and club scene has also been growing along with the disposable income of the local middle class. Most of the major nightspots are located in the top-end hotels dotted around the south side of the city.

Nungambakkam

With a number of shopping centres, there is plenty of choice for foodies in busy Nungambakkam. The best places are on Nungambakkam High Rd and Dr MGR Salai.

Located in South Chennai, Adyarhas some trendy cafes and good-quality South Indian restaurants, especially along Sardar Patel Rd.

Besant Nagar

Situated along the coast, it’s the seafood stalls on the beach that attracts most travellers to Besant Nagar, but it’s worth stepping back onto 4th Main Rd as well where a clutch of restaurants offer plenty of variety.

San Thome church in Chennai © Shutterstock

Chennai’s sights and facilities are spread over such a wide area that it’s impossible to get around without using some form of public transport.

Most visitors jump in auto-rickshaws, but outside rush hours you can travel around comfortably by bus or on the suburban train.

A section of the new Chennai metro between Koyambedu and Alandur was up and running, as was the line from Little Mount to the airport.

By bus tour

One good way to get around the sights of Chennai is on a TTDC bus tour. They’re good value, albeit rushed, and the guides can be very helpful.

The TTDC half-day tour takes in Fort St George, the Government Museum (Birla Planetarium on Fri), the Snake Park, Kapalishvara Temple, and Marina Beach.

City trains travel between Beach (opposite the GPO), Fort, Park (for Central), Egmore, Nungambakkam, Kodambakkam, Mambalam (for T Nagar and silk shops), Saidapet (for Little Mount Church), Guindy, St Thomas Mount and Tirisulam (for the airport).

If you want to travel south from central Chennai to Guindy (Deer Park) or the airport, the easiest way to go is by suburban train (aka the MRST). Buy a ticket before boarding.

Local bus routes radiate out from the amalgamated Express and Broadway bus stands, between Central train station and George Town. On Anna Salai and other major thoroughfares buses have dedicated stops, but on smaller streets you have to flag them down, or wait with the obvious crowd.

By rickshaw

Auto-rickshaw drivers in Chennai are notorious for demanding high fares from locals and tourists alike. The diversions and one-way systems in place due to the construction of the metro are having a considerable effect on journey times and hence rickshaw prices.

Chennai’s yellow-top Ambassador taxis have metres but drivers often refuse to use them, so prepare yourself for some hard bargaining.

The ideal time to visit Chennai is during the pleasant winter months from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This allows for enjoyable exploration of the city's attractions, outdoor activities, and leisurely beach walks.

It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season from June to September due to heavy rainfall and the hot and humid summer months from March to May.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

St Andrews church, Chennai © Shutterstock

If you're primarily interested in exploring the city's major attractions and experiencing its cultural offerings, a duration of 2 to 3 days should be sufficient. This will allow you to visit popular landmarks such as the Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, Government Museum, and San Thome Basilica. Additionally, you can explore traditional markets like Pondy Bazaar and T. Nagar for shopping and immerse yourself in the local cuisine.

If you wish to extend your stay and explore beyond the city, you can consider allocating more time. Chennai serves as a gateway to other notable destinations in Tamil Nadu, such as Mahabalipuram (famous for its UNESCO World Heritage site temples and beach) and Pondicherry (known for its French colonial architecture and serene ambiance), which can be visited as day trips or overnight stays.

Chennai airport, the airport in Tirisulam, 16 km southwest of the city centre on NH-45, is comprehensively served by international and domestic flights.

The new international and domestic terminals are a short walk from each other, on opposite sides of the old terminal.

Facilities at both are much better on the air side than the land side.

Chennai has two main long-distance railway stations – Egmore and Central, both on the north side of the city centre and just 1.5km apart. Egmore station is the arrival point for most trains from Tamil Nadu and Kerala .

Mofussil Bus Stand Buses from all long-distance destinations use the huge Mofussil Bus Stand, inconveniently situated in the suburb of Koyambedu, more than 10 km west of the centre.

Mofussil is linked to other parts of Chennai by a host of city buses, which depart from the well-organised platforms outside the main terminal.

Boats leave Chennai every week/ten days for Port Blair, capital of the Andaman Islands .

The first thing you’ll need to do is contact the Shipping Corporation of India at 17 Rajaji Salai, Jawahar Building, George Town to find out when the next sailing is.

Tickets usually go on sale up to a month prior to departure. There are no ticket sales on the day of sailing.

Find out the best ways to get to India .

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written by Andy Turner

updated 22.06.2023

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Chennai Tourism

• Marina Beach Chennai
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple
• Government Museum Chennai
• Arignar Anna Zoological Park
• San Thome Cathedral Chennai
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Chennai, a vibrant metropolis and the capital of Tamil Nadu, is home to a variety of historical landmarks, temples, and beaches. This city is a delightful mix of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination.

Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches, Chennai offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. With its bustling markets, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm hospitality, this city is a delight for travelers seeking an authentic Indian experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, indulging in delicious street food, or simply relaxing by the sea, Chennai has something for everyone. Get ready to immerse yourself in the charm of this captivating city.

Chennai Historical Significance

Chennai has a fascinating historical significance that dates back centuries. Formerly known as Madras, the city was established by the British East India Company in the 17th century. It served as a major trading post and played a crucial role in the colonial era. Chennai witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties, including the Cholas, the Pallavas, and the Vijayanagara Empire. The city’s historical landmarks, such as Fort St. George, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and San Thome Basilica, stand as testaments to its rich past and architectural grandeur.

Facts About Chennai  

Festivals in Chennai

Pongal: Celebrated in January, Pongal is a harvest festival that marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar. Witness colorful decorations, traditional music, and the preparation of the famous Pongal dish, a sweet rice delicacy.

Chennai Music Season: Held during December and January, the Chennai Music Season is a month-long extravaganza of classical music and dance performances. Renowned artists from across the country gather to showcase their talent, making it a paradise for music enthusiasts.

Chennai Dance Festival: Organized in January, the Chennai Dance Festival is a celebration of various classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi. Experience the grace and beauty of these art forms through captivating performances.

Travel Tips To Visit Chennai

If you are planning for a vacation in this town, prepare for Your tour with the help of these tips.

• Pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection.
• Use public transportation to navigate the city efficiently.
• Communicate in English, which is widely understood.
• Bargain while shopping at local markets for souvenirs.
• Stay hydrated and take basic safety precautions.

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TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN CHENNAI

Marina Beach

Marina Beach is a beautiful beach in Chennai. The beach is situated along the Bay of Bengal, adjacent to the Fort of St. George at the northern end of the city. Marina Beach is about 13 km long. It is the largest in India and the second largest sea border in the world.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Marina Beach is between November and February. The climate is pleasant during this time and you are not tortured by the hot and humid weather that Chennai is notorious for. The weather is fairly cooler and lovely in the mornings and evenings.

Marina Beach, Chennai Timings: 24 hours

Marina Beach, Chennai Entry Fees: Nil

Kapaleeswarar Temple

The Kapaleeswarar Temple is located in Malayapur, a suburb of Chennai. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvati. Here Parvati is worshipped as Karpagumble. The Kapaleeswarar Temple Chennai is named after Kaplum and Eshwar. Kaplum means head, while Eshwar is the second name of Lord Shiva.

In summer, the Chennai season gets very hot. Cold weather, however, is quite pleasant. So the winter season is the best time to visit. March and April are the ideal time to visit if someone wishes to take part in the celebrations of the Brahmotsavam Festival in the temple.

Kapaleeswarar Temple Chennai Timings: 5:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.

Kapaleeswarar Temple Chennai Entry Fees: Nil

Government Museum

The Government Museum Chennai was built in 1851which is also popularly known as Madras Museum. It is the second oldest museum in India after the Indian Museum of Kolkata and is nothing short of a treasure in itself. Art, archeology, anthropology, numismatics and many more are the repositories of the masterpieces here, hence the Government Museum Chennai attracts everyone.

The ideal time to visit here is during the winter when the weather conditions remain pleasant and comfortable.

Government Museum Chennai Timings: 9:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (Museum is not open on Fridays and also on Public holidays)

Government Museum Chennai Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults and INR 10 for children below 12 years of age and INR 5 for a group of students and teachers who have received prior permission. These prices are only for Indian citizens.

Whereas foreign nationals have to pay INR 250 for adults and INR 125 for children of age between 3 to 12, INR 75 for a group of students and teachers who have received prior permission.

If you want to carry a still camera then the fee is INR 200 and INR 500 for a video camera.

EXPLORE TOUR PACKAGES

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5 Nights & 6 Days

Chennai to pondicherry vacation package.

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Things to do in chennai, heritage walk.

Embark on a heritage walk through the streets of George Town, the historic heart of Chennai. Discover colonial-era buildings, bustling markets, and hidden gems that showcase the city’s rich heritage.

Art Galleries

Chennai is home to several art galleries that showcase contemporary and traditional Indian art. Visit places like DakshinaChitra, Lalit Kala Akademi, and Cholamandal Artists’ Village to appreciate the vibrant art scene.

Water Sports

Head to the East Coast Road or Covelong Beach to indulge in thrilling water sports like surfing, jet skiing, and parasailing. Experience the adrenaline rush while enjoying the scenic coastal beauty.

BEST TIME TO VISIT CHENNAI

SUMMER SEASON

(March to June)

The summer season in Chennai is characterized by hot and humid weather. While the heat can be intense, beach lovers can still enjoy the coastal areas.

WINTER SEASON

(October to April)

The winter season in Chennai is considered the best time to visit. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. 

MONSOON SEASON

(July to September)

The monsoon season in Chennai brings heavy rainfall, with occasional thunderstorms. However, the monsoon season also offers a unique charm, with lush greenery and a refreshing atmosphere.

HOW TO REACH

There are three ways to get to Chennai: by air, road, or train.

Popular Tour Packages

8 Nights & 9 Days

Mysore & ooty vacation package, popular places to visit in tamil nadu.

• Kanchipuram
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FAQs about Chennai Travel Guide

What languages are spoken in chennai.

The primary language spoken in Chennai is Tamil. However, English is widely understood and spoken as well. Hindi, Telugu, and Malayalam are also spoken by a significant population.

Are there any historical landmarks or museums to explore in Chennai?

Yes, Chennai has historical landmarks such as Fort St. George and museums like the Government Museum that showcase the city’s rich heritage.

What are some recommended activities or experiences for tourists in Chennai?

Recommended activities for tourists in Chennai include taking a stroll along Marina Beach, exploring the temples and architecture and enjoying traditional music.

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CHENNAI TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO CHENNAI

• Chennai Overview
• Top 37 Places to Visit in Chennai
• 6 Best Chennai Tour Packages
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About Chennai

Country: india | state: tamilnadu, #11 of 25 places to visit in tamilnadu | places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 2-3 days, base station: chennai, nearest city to chennai: chennai, best time to visit chennai: october to february, peak season: november to january, chennai weather: maximum : 42°c minimum : 15°c.

At a distance of 170 km from Pondicherry, 337 km from Bangalore, 629 km from Hyderabad, 453 km from Vijayawada, & 772 km from Trivandrum, Chennai is one of the largest cities in India and the capital city of Tamil Nadu state. It is one of the famous places to visit in Tamilnadu . Located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, the city is home to several beaches, museums, parks, temples, and several historical places that can be visited as part of Chennai packages . Chennai, the 'Cultural Capital of India', is the fourth largest metropolis in the country with a population of over 8 million. Formerly called Madras, the present town was founded in 1639, by Sir Francis Day, who arrived with East India Company. The British East India Company established a fort and a trading post at the small fishing village of Chennai. Today, it has emerged as a major industrial and educational center. Chennai with the Bay of Bengal on its side had been a major British trading post for years. The region around Chennai has served as an important administrative, military, and economic center since the 1st century AD. It has been ruled by various South Indian dynasties, notably the Pallava, the Chola, the Pandya, and Vijaynagara. The area where the present city exists was awarded to the British by Damerla Chennapa Nayaka who a general under Vijayanagara kings ruled from Chandragiri, near Tirupathi. The name Chennai is believed to be derived from Chennakesava Perumal Temple present in the city. Marina Beach, Govt Museum, Parthasarathy Temple, Kapaleeswaraar Temple, San Thome Cathedral, etc. are the top places to visit in Chennai . There are several other attractions in the vicinity of Chennai like Elliot Beach, VGP Golden Beach, Mahabalipuram , Pulicat Lake, Muttukadu, etc. Kanchipuram, the famous historical & pilgrimage town is situated close to Chennai. Chennai has great flight connectivity from major cities in India and countries like Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, USA & Europe. Chennai has two major railway stations - Chennai Central & Chennai Egmore. Chennai Central is a major junction which is connected with major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Vijayawada, Kochi, Pondicherry , etc. Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) is one of the largest bus terminuses in India with inter-state and inter-city connectivity. The city is base to around 30% of India's automobile industry and 35% of its auto components industry. Chennai is a highly humid area and winter is the best season to visit. It usually takes two full days to visit major attractions in Chennai.

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Nearest Airport: Chennai - Chennai International Airport (15 Kms)

Direct flights to chennai, nearest train station: chennai central railway station (0 kms) chennai beach railway station (7 kms) chennai egmore railway station (3 kms), direct trains to chennai, nearest bus station: chennai mofussil bus terminus (0 kms), direct buses to chennai, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to chennai, top 10 places to visit in chennai, marina beach.

#1 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 4 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located at Kamarajar Road, near local Chepauk Railway Station), the famous Marina beach is the second longest beach in the World and runs to a length of 13 Km. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city and also one of the popular attraction not to miss in a Chennai tour packages . Situated on the beach, the Anna Park, named after the founder of D.M.K Anna durai and the tomb of M.G. Ramachandran who was a film star (both were former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu) and the Statue of Labour is a splendid sculpture depicting the efforts of a team of labourers who are at hard manual labour. The beach can be ideally visited in the early mornings or in the late evenings when the area becomes a virtual ground with food stalls and other entertainments.

Govt. Museum

#2 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 4 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Governement Museum is a museum situated on Pantheon Road in Chennai. This is one of the oldest museums in India, and among the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city. Established in 1857, Government Museum is the second oldest museum in the country after the Indian Museum in Kolkata. The museum is located in what is known as the Pantheon complex, or 'public assembly rooms.' Situated in the Egmore suburb of Chennai, it is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It is the third-largest museum in the world, and with 0.6 million visitors in 2018. It is particularly rich in archaeological and numismatic collections. It has the richest collections of bronze idols, 500 of them dating to 1000 BC, in Asia. The museum has the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe. Among them, the colossal Museum Theatre is one of the most impressive. .....

Sri Parthasarathy Temple

#3 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 4.5 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Sri Parthasarathy Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Triplicane locality of Chennai. It is one of the popular temples in Tamilnadu , and among the must-visit places during your Chennai Trip . Sri Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It was originally built by the Pallavas king Narasimhavarman I in the 6th century CE and was renovated by the Vijayanagara kings around the 15th century. It is one of the oldest temples as well as the famous places to visit in Chennai . The temple was built in the typical Dravidian architecture style, complete with gopurams and mandapas with intricate carvings and stucco figures. The temple has icons of five forms of Vishnu: Yoga Narasimha, Rama, Gajendra Varadaraja, Ranganatha, and Krishna .....

Kapiliswarar Temple

#4 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 6.5 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located in Mylapore), the Kapaleeswarar Temple dedicated to Shiva is built in 8th Century by Pallavas. But the current structure is rebuilt by the Vijayanagara rulers in 16th century. The 37 meters tall and grand gopuram is made in the characteristic Dravidian style of architecture. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city. This temple has some beautiful sculptures, among which the bronze idols of 63 Saivaite Saints or the Nayanmars. The Arubathumoovar festival dedicated to the 63 Nayanmars held in March-April every year is a special attraction. Timings: 5 AM to 11 AM and 4 PM to 9.30 PM.

San Thome Cathedral Basilica

#5 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 7 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located at the Southern end of Marina Beach, in Mylapore), San Thome Cathedral Basilica is one of Chennai's historic landmarks. This Cathedral was originally built in 1504. It was rebuilt in 1890 with a 180 ft basilica. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city. The church gets its name from St.Thomas, the apostle of Jesus who is believed to have come to India sometime during 52 A.D. It is believed he was killed on St. Thomas Mount just outside the city in 78 AD and his remains interred in Santhome beach where a church was later built. Several years later, another church was built further inland and his mortal remains were transferred here. Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM

Valluvar Kottam

#6 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 7 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located in Vaikuntapuram, less than 1 Kms from local Kodambakkam Railway Station), Valluvar Kottam is a monument built to pay homage to Tamil Poet Saint Thiruvalluvar. Inaugurated in 1976, the memorial is the form of 101-feet high temple chariot and is the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. A 33m tall life-size statue of the saint has been installed in the chariot. Another amazing attribute of the auditorium is that it is not supported by a single pillar and stands without any support. The 133 chapters of his famous work Thirukkural have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. All the 1330 verses of the poet's epic are depicted on the granite pillars, which surround the auditorium. The auditorium at Valluvar Kottam is said to be the largest in Asia and can accommodate about 4000 people. Timings: 8.30 AM - 5.30 PM Entry Fee: Rs. 10 for Adults & Rs. 5 for Childre .....

Birla Planetarium

#7 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 10 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located at Kotturpuram near Guindy, less than 1 km from local Kotturpuram Railway Station) the Birla Planetarium is the most modern planetarium in India. It houses a fully computerised projector that depicts the heavens on a hemispherical dome. The Planetarium presents audiovisual programmes on various themes in astronomy. Adjoining the planetarium is the Periyar Sceince and Technology Museum, which is of interest to students and other science enthusiasts. Timing : 10 AM to 5 PM, Closed on National Holidays only English Programme Timings: 10.45 AM, 1.45pm and 3.45 pm. Tamil Programme Timings: 12.30 AM and 2.30 PM. Entry Fee: Rs. 45 for Adults & Rs. 25 for Children (which includes Science Centre, Planetarium, 3D Science Movie & Science Park)

Vadapalani Murugan Temple

#8 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 10 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, the Vadapalani Murugan Temple is a Hindu temple situated in Vadapalani area of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Also known as Vadapalani Andavar Temple, it is among the most popular temples in Chennai and also one of the famous places to visit in Chennai . Vadapalani Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. Built around 125 years ago, this temple is one of the most frequented temples of Chennai. According to the legend, Annaswami Nayakar, an ardent devotee of Lord Murugan was the founder of the temple. During his worship, he experienced divine power entering his body and inspiring him to speak surprising things later found to be true. His utterance went by the name of arulvakku and relieved people in several ways, like curing diseases, getting jobs and marriages, etc. The presiding deity idol in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple resembles the original .....

National Art Gallery

#9 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 3 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, the National Art Gallery is situated inside the Government Museum Complex on Pantheon Road in Egmore, Chennai. This is one of the oldest art galleries in India and also one of the must visit Chennai Tourist Places. The National Art Gallery was built of sandstone in the year 1907 by T. Namberumal Chetty. Earlier known as Victoria Memorial Hall, the National Art Gallery was built during the celebration of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in Indo-Saracenic style, designed by architect Henry Irwin. It has been identified as a Heritage site by the CMDA. The National Art Gallery consists of four different sections, which include Tanjore Painting Gallery, Decorative Art Gallery, Indian Traditional Art Gallery and Raja Ravi Varma Painting Gallery. The miniature paintings from the Mughal era, handicrafts from 11th and 12th centuries and Rajput paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries are also on display. Portraits of various .....

Elliot's Beach

#10 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 13 Kms from Chennai (located in Besant Nagar), The Elliot's Beach is a well known destination for people who seek relief from the crowded metropolitan life of the Chennai . The Adyar River drains into the sea here. Popularly known as 'Bessie' among locals, this is an extremely calm and tranquil place. The Beach has become a popular hangout for the young generation. Elliot's Beach is also a favorite haunt of foreigners where they can peacefully take their sun bath. The Ashtalakshmi Temple near the beach is around 20 years old and has modern style architecture. Velanganni Church is a pilgrim place for the Christians. Elliot's Beach has good connectivity and transportation options from Chennai.

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Best Time To Visit Chennai

Peak Season : Winters ( November to February ) are the best time to visit Chennai. The temperature during these months fluctuate between 20 to 25 degrees celsius, making the city perfect for sightseeing. Also, tourists can engage in the festive revelry during January when Pongal is celebrated across the city with much enthusiasm.

Shoulder Season : July to September usher in the monsoons to Chennai. And while the rainfall brings relief from the sweltering heat of the summers, there is frequent and heavy downpour in the city. But if you can brave the rains, Chennai is equally beautiful, if not more during this season.

Off-season: March to June is when the city is at his hottest. With temperature reaching as high as 40 degrees celsius, the hotel tariffs and flight rates drop during this season.

Budget For Chennai

For Budget Travellers: INR 600 - 1000 a day

• Accommodation in hostels and basic rooms in guesthouses: INR 200-500
• Food in local tiffin-houses and street eateries: INR 50-200
• Public Transport in buses: INR 10 - 100
• Sightseeing (Entry-tickets & shows): INR 10 - 100

For Mid-range Travellers: INR 1000 to INR 3000 a day

• Accommodation in mid-range hotels and homestays: INR 600 - 1500
• Food in mid-range cafes and restaurants: INR 250 - 600
• Local transport in auto-rickshaws, and local taxis: INR 150 - 400
• Sightseeing & Tours: INR 10 - 1000

For Luxury Travellers: INR 6000 and upwards

• Accommodation in 4* or 5* hotels: INR 3000 and upwards
• Food in upscale restaurants and bars: INR 900 and upwards
• Local transport in cabs: INR 400 and upwards
• Sightseeing, Guided Tours: INR 1000 and upwards

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Chennai Guide: Planning Your Trip

What to Know Before You Go

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Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is known as the gateway to South India. This city has a population of about 10 million people, making it India's fifth largest city after Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Chennai has managed to retain a spaciousness that's lacking in other major Indian cities despite being an important city for manufacturing, healthcare, and IT. It's a sprawling and busy, yet conservative, city with deep traditions and culture that are yet to give way to the growing foreign influence there. Find out what to know before you go in this Chennai travel guide.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Chennai has a hot and humid climate. Summer temperatures in late May and early June often reach an extreme 38–42 degrees Celsius (100–107 degrees Fahrenheit). The city receives most of its rainfall during the northeast monsoon , from mid-September to mid-December. Heavy rains can be a problem then. The temperature decreases to an average of 24 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit) during winter, from November to February, but doesn't drop below 20 degrees Celsius (68 Fahrenheit).
• Language: Tamil and English.
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Chennai does not have daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: App-based cabs such as Uber and Ola are the most convenient way of getting around. Auto rickshaws are plentiful but fares are relatively expensive and rarely charged as per the meter. Foreigners are usually quoted excessively high rates (often more than double) and should be prepared to negotiate hard before the journey. Buses are cheap, albeit chaotic, and cover most of the city. There's the newly-operational Metro rail network as well.
• Travel Tip: Chennai experiences high humidity throughout the year, so pack breathable cotton clothes.

Getting There

Chennai is situated on the east coast of India. Chennai International Airport is conveniently only 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the city center. It's well connected in terms of transport. Chennai Central railway station and Egmore railway station receive long distance trains from all over India.

Things to Do

Unlike some other cities in India, Chennai doesn't have any world-famous monuments or tourist attractions. It's a city that requires time and effort to really get to know and appreciate it. These top places to Visit in Chennai will give you a feel for the city's distinctive culture and what makes it special. Storytrails conducts very interesting immersive tours. The five-week Madras Music Season in December and January is a big cultural draw. The annual Mylapore Festival is held in early January, just before the Pongal festival in mid-January. However, Chennai lacks the cosmopolitan nightlife of other Indian cities.

There are plenty of places to visit near Chennai. The tourist circuit of Chennai, Mamallapuram and Kanchipuram is often referred to as Tamil Nadu's Golden Triangle.

In addition, there are two amusement parks a short distance from the city -- the amusement park at VGP Universal Kingdom , and MGM Dizzy World.

What to Eat and Drink

The South Indian cuisine in Chennai features staples such as idli and sambar, vada and sambar, masala dosa, and filter coffee. Being a coastal city, fish curry is ubiquitous. Head to the snack stalls on Marina beach for sundal (chickpeas). Most importantly, try a South Indian thali (platter), which comes with an assortment of dishes and is a meal in itself. Ponnusamy Hotel on Jaganathan Road in Nungambakkam is famous for its humongous Baahubali Thali with 50 items! It's too big for one person to eat alone. The Marina, on College Road in Nungambakkam, is renowned for its fresh seafood and is environmentally-conscious. Thaligai Restaurant in Mylapore serves authentic vegetarian fare, featuring specialty heirloom dishes that aren't available elsewhere. Try the inexpensive messes (informal restaurants) in Mylapore for great south Indian food as well -- Karpagambal Mess, Rayar Mess, and Mami Mess are recommended. Hotel Saravana Bhavan is a popular vegetarian restaurant chain, with a branch near Egmore Station. Murugan Idli Shop is also legendary. Go to Paati Veedu in T. Nagar for traditional South Indian cuisine with a twist.

To learn more about the local cuisine in Chennai, take this food walk through Adyar.

Where to Stay

Luxury hotels in Chennai are generally less expensive than in cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. Mid-range hotels also provide great value for money. In terms of location, Mylapore is one of the best neighborhoods for tourists, as it's full of history and culture. Savera Hotel is a popular choice there.

Culture and Customs

Chennai was originally a cluster of small villages until English merchants of the British East India Company selected it as the site for a factory and trading port in 1639. The British developed it as a major urban center and naval base, and by the 20th Century, the city had become an administration hub. In recent years, Chennai has achieved booming industrial growth across a range of sectors, encouraged by the city's favorable infrastructure and availability of space.

As Chennai is one of the most conservative major cities in India, it's important to dress in a manner that respects this. Revealing or tight-fitting clothes, both on men and women, should be avoided even at the beach. Lightweight clothes that cover the arms and legs are best.

Chennai is a relatively safe destination that experiences less crime than most other major Indian cities. The main problems are pick-pocketing and begging. Beggars specifically target foreigners and can be quite aggressive. Avoid giving any money because it will only attract them in swarms. The unruly traffic in Chennai is another problem to be aware of. Drivers often drive in an undisciplined manner, so extra care should be taken when crossing the road.

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"The Detroit of India"

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Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital city of the state of Tamil Nadu, in the southern part of India. Located on the Coromandel coast of Bay of Bengal, Chennai is as dynamic as it is immersed in tradition. This 'capital of the south', is one among the four metropolitan siblings of India, having a rich cultural history which it perfectly balances with its metropolis lifestyle.

Amid its chaos of traffic and sweltering humid climate, Chennai is worth visiting for its temples steeped in south-Indian culture, British-era museums and monuments, culinary delights and Marina Beach (Second largest urban beach in the world). Chennai's skyline is famous for its towering skyscrapers, but the heart of Chennai has an old-world charm to it that refuses to be overshadowed. 

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• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Culture
• 2.3 Climate
• 2.4.1 Books on Chennai
• 2.4.2 Fiction set in Chennai
• 2.5 Early morning city
• 2.6 Tourist information
• 4.1.1 By train
• 4.1.2 By taxi
• 4.1.3 By metro
• 4.2 By train
• 5.1 By train
• 5.2 By metro
• 5.4 By auto-rickshaw
• 5.5 By taxi
• 6.1 Places of worship
• 7.2 Music and dance
• 7.5 Book fair
• 9.2 Clothes
• 9.4 Art galleries
• 9.6 Jewellery
• 9.7 Musical instruments
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11.1 Mid-range
• 11.2 Splurge
• 11.3 Local specialities - soft drinks
• 13 Stay safe
• 14.1 Hospitals
• 14.2 Pharmacies
• 15.1 Landlines
• 15.2 Mobile phones
• 15.3 Internet
• 16.2 Money changers
• 16.3 Beauty parlors & hair salons
• 16.5 Post & telegraphs
• 16.6 Libraries & cultural centres
• 16.7 Consulates

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Chennai ( Tamil : சென்னை Ceṉṉai ), formerly Madras , is the capital of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu . With a population of 8.6 million (2011 census), Chennai's urbanised area is the most populous in Southern India and the fourth most populous in India. It is on the east coast of peninsular India.

Though Chennai traces its history to Fort St George and the adjoining village of Madrasapattinam founded by the British East India Company in 1640, some residential districts of the city are older. The name Madras was changed to Chennai in 1997 by a special act of the Tamil Nadu legislature.

Chennai has an extremely hot and humid climate—especially in the month of May, and has heavy rains during monsoons (July to November). The worst of the heat can be avoided by visiting from November to February..

For travel purposes, this article covers the Chennai Metropolitan Area , a region of 5,904   km 2 (2,280   sq   mi) . It consists of several municipalities, the largest of which, the Corporation of Chennai , is spread along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. The Corporation of Chennai can divided roughly along Coovum and Adyar rivers into North, Central and South.

A coastal site that has been inhabited since the Stone Age, what is now Chennai was ruled by the Three Crowned Kings (Chola, Chera and Pandya dynasties) for most of its history. In medieval times, it came within the control of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Chennai is associated with one of the twelve apostles in Christianity , Thomas. He is believed to have gone to evangelise in India and died in Mylapore, today a neighbourhood of Chennai. The two modern suburbs of Chennai, St Thomas Mount and Santhome, were named in Thomas' honour. In 1522, the Portuguese came to the area, built a port and accordingly named it São Tomé after Saint Thomas.

Chennai the modern city was founded by the British East India Company in 1639. The company purchased the land from the local Nayak or chieftain on 22 August 1639, which is why Chennai nowadays celebrates its birthday every year on 22 August. It was one of the British East India Company's first outposts in India. The company built Fort St. George which is now the administrative and legislative seat of Tamil Nadu state. Over time, George Town absorbed many nearby boroughs and grew into becoming the current metropolis of Chennai.

In 1996, the Tamil Nadu government changed the name of the city from Madras, the name adopted during British rule, to Chennai, which it says is the original name of the city.

The name Madras comes from Madraspattinam , which is what the British called the site when they settled here. Its origin is uncertain. Tradition suggests that a fishing village near to the location of the British settlement was called Madraspattinam. Others think that the early Portuguese voyagers may have called the area Madre de Sois after an early settler, or Madre de Deus after an early church (of St. Mary).

Chennai is derived from Chennapattinam , a name with almost equally uncertain origins. Tradition has it that Chennapattinam was the name of a fishing village near the location of Madraspattinam. However, it is not clear if the village was there beforehand or grew up around the British Madraspattinam settlement.

As the settlements grew, the location of Chennapattinam and Madraspattinam became confused as the two settlements merged into a single town.

Under British rule, what was then Madras gradually became an important administrative centre and was linked to the other big cities by rail, including Mumbai and Kolkata. Madras was the capital city of the Madras Presidency , a subdivision that governed the areas of South India under direct British control. Upon India's independence, the city continued to be the capital of Madras State . After many of India's states were renamed and reorganised on the basis of language, Chennai became the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu.

For centuries, Chennai has been the gateway to Southern India, with a vastly different culture from the other big cities of the country. Tamil culture and tradition at its core celebrates beauty. This is revealed in its dance, sculpture and clothing. Chennai's demographics show a more diverse population than the rest of Tamil Nadu. The traditional art forms, music, dance of Tamil Nadu thrive here. The cuisine uniquely blends traditional foods, fast food and filter coffee. The architecture varies from age-old temples, to colonial buildings and twenty-first century skyscrapers. Western and Indian classical music flourish in Chennai, along with a booming nightlife. There are dance schools teaching anything from traditional Bharatnatyam to Salsa. There are music schools teaching you how to play the veena, violin, guitar or drums just about everywhere. Chennai reflects its traditional heritage from December to January during the height of the music festival. The clothing locals wear is generally conservative by Western standards but the younger generation wear contemporary.

• Music : The classical music tradition which emerged in South India including Chennai is known as Carnatic music , of which there have been many composers. Purandara Dasa, who lived in the 15th and 16th centuries, is known as the father (Pitamaha) of Carnatic music due to his pioneering contributions to the tradition. Purandara Dasa is renowned for formulating the basic lessons of Carnatic music. The contemporaries Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri of the 18th and 19th centuries, are regarded as the Trinity of Carnatic music due to the high quality music they composed. The Chennai Music Festival The compositions of these maestros are frequently played by today's artists during the music festival season. The Chennai Music Festival from mid-December to mid-January commemorates the classical music of South India, including these maestros. The festival, which has developed into a cultural extravaganza with more than 2,000 artists participating in over 300 concerts, is held throughout the city at numerous venues, including auditoriums, well-known temple premises and heritage bungalows. Performances consist of vocal and instrumental music, dance (solo and group), both by junior and senior artists. The music include classical vocal renditions in various South Indian languages like Tamil, Telugu and Kannada and instruments like the flute, veena (a large string instrument), goottuvadyam (similar to the veena but without frets), nagaswaram (pipe), thavil (percussion instrument), mridangam (drum), and even ghatam (a mud pot). Information regarding tickets and venues can be obtained from the tourist office in Chennai. Nowadays, the music in the Tamil film industry has emerged as an important entertainment platform in Chennai. Kollywood as it is known, reveals the ongoing developments and changes to Tamil culture over time.
• Dance : Chennai and the rest of Tamil Nadu is associated with a worldwide famous form of classical dance, the Bharatnatyam . This classical dance celebrates the world and universe by showcasing the beauty of the human body. The dancer represents this by having a perfectly straight posture, a pout curving stomach, a well-rounded and a proportionate body to mass ratio, very long hair and curvy hips. The positions and moves bring the Natyashastra principles to life. The araimandi posture is another spiritual portrayal, where the dancer poses in a half-sitting, fixed position with their knees turned sideways. In the araimandi , the distance between the dancer's head and navel is equal to the distance between the ground and navel. Similarly, the distance between the dancer's right arm and left arm at full stretch is equal to that between their head and feet. This personifies creation and life.
• Cuisine : As with most of Southern India, the staple food in the city is rice . Chennai offers various non-vegetarian and vegetarian delicacies. The food in Chennai gets its flavour from a combination of condiments, herbs and spices used throughout Tamil Nadu. Tamarind, coconut and asafoetida are essential in nearly every vegetarian recipe. Refined gingelly oil is commonly used as the default oil when cooking. Mixed spices and chutney accompany meals to enhance its taste. A Chennai lunch is comprised of rice with a range of dishes, including sambar (thin lentil curry), chutney, rasam (a broth made from pepper and tamarinds) and yogurt/curd. Non-vegetarian lunches include meals cooked with chicken, fish or mutton. Appalams (papadums) are a vital accompaniment to a Tamil meal. In Chennai, it is Chettinad cuisine that stands out from the others. The cuisine is spicy and hot and offers scrumptious variety in a range of meat dishes, of which the best known is arguably Chettinad Pepper Chicken . A Chennai twist on Mughalai cuisine can be experienced in the paya (a spiced trotter's broth) and biryani. Breakfast in Chennai consists of idli (steamed rice and lentil cakes), dosa (a thin and savoury, crepe-like pancake prepared from lentil and rice batter), vada (doughnuts made by deep-frying black lentil batter), pongal (a boiled mash of lentils and rice seasoned with cashew nuts, ghee, cumin seed and pepper), upma (roasted semolina garnished with spices and oil). Most Chennai breakfasts are accompanied by sambar, melagai podi (a powdered mix of various dried lentils eaten with oil) and coconut chutney. Chennai is also renowned for filter coffee , the most popular type of coffee in Tamil culture. It is a laborious task to make filter coffee. First the beans are roasted and ground. The coffee powder then has to be poured into a filter set along with boiling water, which is allowed to infuse for approximately 15 minutes. Then the decoction is mixed with sugar and milk. The drink once prepared is rapidly poured back and forth from one vessel to another which makes a perfect, aerated cup of coffee. Filter coffee is refreshing and has a lingering taste.
• Clothing : The traditional garment for Tamil women is the sari while the men wear the dhoti , which could be either a white pancha or a colourful lungi with typical South Indian patterns. The sari, being an unstitched wrap, enhances the shape of the wearer while only partially covering the midriff. In Indian philosophy, the navel of the Supreme Being is considered as the source of life and creativity. These principles of the sari, also hold for other forms of wrapped clothing, like the lungi worn by men. The lungi can be wrapped over clockwise or anticlockwise and can be tied at the back or fixed just along the waist line. It is sometimes lifted till the knee and tied at the waist leisurely or just held by the wearer's hand to speed up walking. In traditional Brahmin homes, men wear kachche panchey where it is tied at back by taking it between legs. A similar pattern is seen in women.

Its coastal position and closeness to the equator makes Chennai's climate humid and tropical all year round.

Chennai predominantly has two seasons - summer from April to June (35-42°C (95-108°F)), the highest temperature recorded was 45°C (113°F) in 2003) and the monsoon from October to December. The city barely gets any rain from the southwest monsoon (Jun-Sep), but receives copious amounts from the northeast monsoon from October through to December, every year amounting to between 125 and 150   cm (49 and 59   in) of rain. During some seasons, Chennai gets a greater amount of rainfall if there are depressions in the Bay of Bengal.

The period from December through to February is the mildest in terms of temperature, where the daily range on average is 19-28°C (66-82°F). Be sure to take along thin and light clothing.

Books on Chennai

• Chennai, Not Madras: Perspectives on the City (2006) by A.R. Venkatachalapathy
• The Spirit of Chepauk (1998) by S. Muthiah
• Madras Rediscovered: A Historical Guide to Looking Around (1999) by S. Muthiah
• The Story Of Fort St. George (1945) by Col. D.M. Reid

Fiction set in Chennai

• The Healing (2008) by Gita Aravamudan
• Tamarind City (2012) by Bishwanath Ghosh

Early morning city

Chennai is a good morning city where all restaurants, shops and public transportation facilities are in full swing well before 6AM. Traffic is in full strength well before 8AM.

Tourist information

• Chennai tourism website

Tamil is the most widely spoken language in the city and the official language of the state of Tamil Nadu. However, English is well-understood and considerably well known in the city, with most of the well-educated upper class being fluent in English. The dialect of Tamil used by the locals is called Madras Bashai and includes a disproportionately high chunk of the English, Telugu, Sanskrit, Hindi and Urdu vocabulary and their derivatives. White-collared professionals use Tanglish , a form of conversational Tamil containing a large number of English words. Both forms of Tamil are different from the dialects spoken in other parts of the state and are often viewed upon contemptuously by Tamil purists.

Telugu is spoken by a quarter of the city's population. Chennai is less than 60 km from the Telugu-speaking Andhra Pradesh border. Most Telugu-speakers are settled in Chennai for generations and are usually bilingual in both Tamil and Telugu. However, the Telugu script is far-less understood and very few are literate in the language.

As the centre of anti-Hindi agitations from the 1930s and the 1960s, the city has cherished a deep-rooted animosity for Hindi. However, since the 1980s, when the much-politicised rhetoric against Hindi began to tone down, tolerance for Hindi has been growing. Nevertheless, Hindi is still not widely spoken or understood by locals, so if you don't speak Tamil, you will be better off trying English, even that may not be useful everywhere. Learning a few phrases in Tamil may be highly useful, especially when interacting with locals.

Transport options into city centre:

Use the prepaid taxi to reach the central business district. Every terminal has many taxi booths when you leave the airport. Fast Track has the best rep, figure on around ₹560 to the city centre for a Toyota Innova or equivalent. The fares differ for the international and domestic terminals though the terminals are next to each other. You can either choose the standard taxis (black with yellow tops) or the private call-taxi (which can come in any colour). It is better to have some loose change when paying at the counters. The taxi number is written on your charge slip. One copy is for the passenger while the other is for the driver to collect the fare from the counter. Make your way to the taxi stand and get the taxi number allotted at the designated desk. The helpful drivers will offer to take your luggage and guide you to the taxi that drives up quickly near the allotment desk.

"Fasttrack" pre-paid taxi service has booths in the domestic and international terminals. Comparing with the rest of the taxis their fare and service is pretty much good. Depends on your need you can get from Maruti van to Toyota Innova.

The prepaid and yellow top taxis are not air-conditioned, were made in the 1970s and 80s, are rickety and are prone to stop midway in a journey. The drivers sometimes exhibit rough dangerous behaviour and can demand exorbitant fares. The "prepaid" may mean nothing and they may demand more when you get down. Stay away from these types of taxis.

Aviation Express is very overpriced.

Ola and Uber have become more prominent and travellers can easily book a journey on these services using a smart phone. They are generally cheaper than all prepaid taxis.

The Blue Line   1   of the Chennai Metro connects the airport to MGR Chennai Central. There's also an inter-corridor service along the Green Line   2   that follows the Blue Line from Airport to Alandur.

• 13.094 80.2924 Chennai Beach&nbsp;<span title=\\\"Southern Railway\\\" style=\\\"color: #333; background-color:#000075; border:2px solid \\n#000075; border-radius:0px; font-size:70%;\\\"> <span style=\\\"color:white; font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap;\\\">SR</span> </span></span>\",\"marker-symbol\":\"-number-go\",\"marker-color\":\"A52A2A\",\"description\":\"[[File:ChennaiBeach StationMainBuilding.jpg|300px]]\"}}"}}'>5 Chennai Beach     SR   , North Beach Rd, George Town ( Near to Chennai Port ). Serves the suburban services of the Chennai suburban railway (head station of the South line), Mass Rapid Transit System of Chennai, and a few passenger trains.  

Trains that connect Chennai to major hubs like Bangalore , Mumbai and Delhi are usually booked out days in advance. If you plan to travel by train, consider making a reservation, the reservation opens 120 days before the day of travel. The AC compartments in the trains are preferable for new travellers as the sleeper class and sitting class compartments are generally very crowded. A 3-tier AC berth from Chennai to Bangalore or Coimbatore costs around ₹700 and that to Delhi is around ₹2500 including meals.

• 13.07052 80.19953 9 Omni bus terminus ( Chennai Contract Carriage Bus Terminus, CCCBT ), Kaliamman Koil St, Virrugambakkam, Koyambedu ( West to Kaliamman Koil St. Take a bus to stop Arihant Towers Bus Stop. CMBT Metro Station 400 m away ). This one is used by several private players that also operate buses between most southern destinations. During the weekends most buses are fully occupied and it's better to reserve a ticket in advance. Omni Bus Booking: No:B-15, Ground Floor, Sriji majestic complex (right next to Omni bus terminus).  

All buses terminate near Koyambedu but there are different stands for state-owned (CMBT) and private buses (Omni bus terminus). The two terminals are near each other, and it is better to tell your exact destination to the taxi/auto-rickshaw driver. Buses usually drop passengers at various points in the city before reaching the terminus. Ask the driver or fellow passengers at the closest drop-off point to your destination.

Several private players also operate buses between most southern destinations. During the weekends most buses are fully occupied and it's better to reserve a ticket in advance. All buses terminate near Koyambedu but there are different stands for state-owned (CMBT) and private buses (Omni bus terminus). The two terminals are near each other, and it is better to tell your exact destination to the taxi/auto-rickshaw driver. Buses usually drop passengers at various points in the city before reaching the terminus. Feel free to ask the driver or fellow passengers for the closest drop-off point to your destination.

Chennai is very well connected to other parts of India by road. Five major national highways radiate outward towards Kolkata, Bangalore, Tiruchirappalli , Madurai , Tiruvallur , and Pondicherry. With the progress of the Golden Quadrilateral project, driving down from Bangalore is an option too. There are many car rental companies available.

Getting around the heart of Chennai city often takes time, due to traffic and heavy congestion. So it is advisable to plan your journey accordingly. Travelling within Chennai is not so cheap by Indian metropolitan standards, and is quite cheap by European and USA standards.

Chennai has a suburban train network . There are six suburban lines as of June 2023:

• North Line   North   (Moore Market Complex–Bitragunta)
• South Line   South   (Chennai Beach–Tambaram–Villupuram)
• South West Line   South West   (Chennai Beach–Arakkonam)
• West Line   West   (Moore Market Complex–Jolarpet)
• West North Line   West North   (Moore Market Complex–Tirupati)
• West South Line   West South   (Chennai Beach–Vellore–Villupuram)

The suburban trains are generally reliable and fast. The frequency of suburban trains is generally good and it is advisable to take a first-class ticket during peak hours. Trains offer a reliable alternative to quickly reach your destination when compared to buses which might get trapped in traffic jams. The fare in Chennai suburban trains is the lowest in the country and you don't have to compromise comfort for the meagre amount that you pay as in other Indian metros. There is a separate ladies' compartment in the suburban trains that are relatively less crowded even in peak hours. The lowest second-class train fare is ₹5. However, you might need to wait even for almost half an hour in a queue for a ticket during peak hours. So it would be best if you buy a card that is available at every station that can be used to buy tickets from a ticket vending machine that almost nobody uses. Always keep your baggage safe when you are travelling in the suburban railway system.

The Mass Rapid Transit System   MRTS   is an elevated railway line from Chennai Beach to Velachery. It is very similar to the suburban railway and only suburban trains run through it.

The Chennai Metro is regularly being extended. As of June 2023, there are two metro lines:

• Blue Line   1   (Airport–Wimco Nagar)
• Green Line   2   (St. Thomas Mount–MGR Chennai Central)

Three new metro lines are under construction and are expected to open partially by as soon as 2026. The Blue and Green lines intersect at MGR Chennai Central and Alandur. Besides, there's an inter-corridor service along the Green Line that follows the Blue Line from Airport to Alandur.

The maximum fare between Chennai Airport to Nehru Park (which is 1½ km from Egmore and 2½ km from MGR Chennai Central) is ₹60 per person. The Tourist Travel Card offers unlimited travel within the Chennai Metro network for a day. It costs ₹100, of which ₹50 when it is returned. Chennai Metro has baggage checking like the airport and is very safe.

Also, tourists can use the Chennai Metro Rail app (Google Play Store/Apple iTunes). The app provides details about train timings, exit gates and platforms, fares between two stations, the nearest metro station, and how to reach the station by car, public transport and walking.

Metropolitan Transport Corporation buses ply throughout the city. These are government-run and extremely cheap.

• 13.08751 80.284 10 Broadway city bus terminus , NSC Bose Rd, Esplanade, George Town ( In the centre of the city- Parry's corner & Fort. Very close to Chennai Central railway station. The nearest suburban railway station is Chennai Fort. ). The largest city bus terminus of the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (Chennai), Chennai.; It lies opposite the Madras High Court along the Esplanade in George Town. It is a connecting point to several areas in the city. The bus terminus is at the southern end of Broadway.  

Normally bus fares in MTC range from ₹4-30. State corporation also has Deluxe and A/C Buses for Chennai Passengers. The fare for the deluxe bus is almost two times as compared to the normal bus. For the same route, deluxe and normal buses have the same number but deluxe buses are being run targeting long-distance journeys since they will stop at major bus stops only. So if you find normal buses too crowded, take a deluxe one. Non-AC deluxe also have power gates and better suspension which you won't find in the normal bus. If you have luggage with you, you might have to pay the cost of an extra person depending upon its size.

MTC Chennai operates an AC bus service between important routes like Parrys - Tambaram, Parrys - CMBT, Chennai Central - CMBT, Chennai central - Tambaram, etc. The most frequent AC bus runs between CMBT towards Pondicherry and is known as the East coast road (ECR) bus and is very popular for intracity travel too.

Daily and weekly bus passes are available for tourists costing ₹50 or ₹300. They can be used on normal and deluxe bus services (but not AC) on all routes within the city. It is worthwhile to purchase the daily pass if you plan to visit more than a couple of places in a day and it will save you from the trouble of maintaining loose change. The daily pass can be purchased on the first bus you board from the conductor, while the weekly and monthly passes are sold at kiosks in major termini.

Bus route information for MTC Chennai is available online at official site and Jaanlo .

State Express Transport Corporation buses go to different parts of the state. Private carriers also run to other towns/cities in the state. You can buy these bus tickets online at redBus or readIndia or RathiMeena or Myticketbuddy [ dead link ] .

By auto-rickshaw

Chennai has about 71,000 autorickshaws.

The fares of Chennai auto-rickshaws have been an enormous political topic for many years and have contributed to the perception that the city's auto-rickshaw drivers never use meters and continually fleece passengers. However, despite the reputation, trips by auto rickshaw actually are quick, but rarely based on the metered price.

The minimum fare is set at ₹25 for the first 1.8 km and ₹12/km for every additional kilometre (2013). Waiting charges were set at ₹3.50 for every five minutes and ₹42 per hour. Between 11PM and 5 AM, the fare is 50% higher than the normal daytime rate.

Auto rickshaw meters are being outfitted with GPS and electronic digital receipt printers. As of 2015, though, only a small fraction of autos have these features.

Despite the official fares, the situation as of 2015 is for the driver and passenger to agree before the ride begins to a price of a) meter, b) meter + some additional amount, or c) a fixed price.

Whether the auto driver will agree to a metered fare depends on many factors. Generally, many drivers will agree to a fare of a meter plus ₹10-30 additional. But at busy times such as rush hours on weekdays, almost no drivers will agree to the metered price and will insist on a fixed price, or at a minimum demand a fare of meter plus ₹30-100. On the other hand, at slower times, for example, Sundays, many drivers will agree to metered prices with no surcharge. Some drivers will simply never accept metered fares no matter what time it is.

The fixed prices that auto drivers demand is related to distance. They generally have a good sense of how much the fare would be for a given route and ask for fixed prices around double what it would cost by the meter. For shorter distances which would cost ₹25-50 by the meter, the fixed price demanded is ₹100-150. For longer distances which would cost ₹50-150 per meter, the fixed price demanded will be ₹200-300. Depending on the situation, it's possible to negotiate down the demanded fixed price.

For short distances up to 1.8 km, auto drivers as of 2015 very rarely will agree to the metered price of ₹25. Generally, ₹40-50 is the minimum most will require for any trip, although at off-peak hours, it might be possible with negotiation and speaking to many autos to find a driver who will agree to ₹30-40. For a typical trip in the city of 3-5 km, many drivers will demand ₹100-150, but at non-peak hours a fare of ₹50-₹0 will usually be sufficient after speaking to a few drivers.

At all times, the price agreed depends very much on the passenger's knowledge of the distance involved and the price it would cost by meter, his/her negotiation skill, and the time s/he is willing to spend asking auto after auto. In almost any central area, there are many autos around, so if you have the time, it's possible to save quite a bit by speaking to many auto drivers until you find an acceptable fare.

Many passengers now opt for Ola, Uber or other similar taxi-order services simply to avoid the frustration and time involved with negotiating with auto after auto.

All autos in Chennai have meters, but at least a quarter of drivers have disabled their meter in some way in order to make it not functional and the passenger must agree to a fixed price if s/he wants to use that auto. For those meters that function, you can see the price, kilometres and waiting time, and thereby confirm that the meter is fairly following the official tariff structure.

Share autos have emerged as an alternative mode of transport in Chennai. They are oversized three-wheelers running on diesel and charge slightly more than the bus. There are four-wheelers known as meter taxis , which don't have a meter and are not taxis. Another four-wheeler, Magic (manufactured by Tata), has started running in and around the city, which operates similarly to share autos and meter taxis. They are all overcrowded and the drivers indulge in rash driving, owing to the competition. The only advantage is that it is cost-effective.

If you are fascinated by the idea of going around in an auto, think about all those foreigners, who are riding an auto from Chennai to Mumbai.

A Chennai-based event management company, Chennai Event Management Services, has been having auto-rickshaw rallies from Chennai to Mumbai, or Kanyakumari, etc., and has developed a great fan following for them.

Taxis (locally called "call-taxis" since they must be pre-arranged) are available by phone. They are most reliable, can be ordered air-conditioned, and have digital fare meters, although time-based hire is also possible with some companies. Most companies charge a minimum fare of ₹150, which is for 5   km (3   mi) and for every subsequent kilometre they charge ₹18. Alternatively, you can hire a car for a half/full day for around ₹800/1300. These figures are for basic non-AC Ambassadors, add about 50% if you want a comfier aircon Tata Indica. Waiting charges are included in the meter cost but you are required to pay parking and toll fees in addition to the fare displayed on the meter. If your trip is time-sensitive, it's best to book your taxi a few hours in advance and call shortly before your trip to confirm.

Most prepaid taxi operators have a choice of vehicles. Indica is the ubiquitous hatchback that can seat 3 passengers, but it is almost impossible to find one well-maintained. Opt for a Figo or Liva instead of the Indica when you book the taxi, these are newer models and likely to be in a better state of maintenance. If you prefer a sedan, choices are Etios, Maruti Suzuki DZire and Ford Fiesta. SUV models Innova or Xylo have more space and are suitable for small groups (up to 7). Innova has a well-deserved reputation with travellers for airport transfers due to its reliability, spacious seats and capacity to carry more luggage.

It is generally not advisable for foreign travellers to drive on their own as they might be unaware of the traffic rules and congestion in the city. The roads in Chennai are better maintained than the average Indian road. The main highway is Anna Salai also known as Mount Road . It has been acting for a decade and still as one of the prime arterial roads of Chennai starting from Chintadripet to Alandur at the Kathipara Flyover, continuing as GST Road. It also connect the Central railway station to the International Airport. Major parts of the blue line of metro are built about this road.

The complex road routes may confuse novice drivers and it is a sheer waste of time. If you choose to rent a car, it's strongly advised to hire a driver as well. The typical driver fee comes to around ₹250 for a 4-hour shift and an additional ₹50 every hour thereafter. Outstation trips cost a driver fee of ₹750 for a 12-hour journey.

Diesel and petrol are used as fuel in India and it varies with the model of the car. Some cars have identical models with only a D badge to indicate diesel. Make sure you find out what type of fuel the car uses from the rental company.

East Coast Road ( ECR ), also known as New Mahabalipuram Road , is one of the very few places around Chennai that is best enjoyed by car. There are a lot of scenic views with many sightseeing options along the route. For most of the sights within the city limits, travellers would be better served by public transport or a taxi.

East Coast Road could very well be termed the entertainment highway of Chennai. The road is new, flanked by the sea on the left and dotted with amusement spots throughout the entire stretch. Driving down ECR is an experience. Really! You can pick and choose from amusement parks, water sports centres, beaches, eco-conservation, cultural and religious centres, restaurants or resorts to spend your day in. The road caters to practically every type of pastime that one could think about. Be prepared to pay a small toll fee.

Places of worship

Chennai is home to numerous churches, with the oldest being Santhome Church , named after the Christian apostle, St. Thomas, who has preached in the area between 52 and 70 CE.

Chennai has several well-known beaches. The Marina Beach in Central Chennai is the second-longest beach in the world after Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh. Chennai is home to Guindy National Park , the smallest national park in India.

• During summers it becomes too hot and humid to venture out during the day. So go out for a stroll during the night (7-9PM) on the Marina beach and Elliots Beach (Besant Nagar). It's a nice idea to pack dinner and have a picnic on the beach as most locals do. If you happen to drive a car you can also consider taking along a few foldable chairs. Beyond 10PM, no one is permitted to be on the beach. There are policemen on the beach to ensure people follow this rule, and on some occasions they tend to shoo people out by 9PM. However, if you are an early riser, you might consider visiting the beaches early morning around 6 to 8AM The sunrise is wonderful and there is a slight breeze as well. However, be warned that there are dogs lying all over the place and you have a high chance of getting hit by a cricket ball if you aren't looking.
• Stroll along the over crowded Pondy Bazaar and Ranganathan Street and try your skills in bargaining for knick-knacks. Be warned that it is an intensely crowded place, where you have to elbow your way through.
• Take a bus or an auto to Mylapore Tank and take a walk around Mylapore especially in and around the Kapaleeshwarar Temple . The crowds, sounds, fragrances of temple incense and flowers and the tiny shops are to be definitely experienced though keep away on Fridays. It gets too hectic even for experienced Mylaporeans.

Music and dance

Chennai is famous for its concerts and performances that take place in various auditoriums and temples throughout the year, which are announced in The Hindu and other local newspapers. During the Tamil month of Maargazhi (December - January) there is a series of classical Carnatic music concerts and classical dance performances in various parts of the city, but the best are organized in various Sabhas (loosely translates to "concert house"). You will see mostly older celebrities, although occasionally there will be some world-class young virtuosos. Free entry passes are usually given out for debutante performances (called Arangetram in Tamil) and for performances held on weekdays (before 4PM when the crowd starts filling up).

• Brahma Gana Sabha , ☏ +91 92821 06425 , +91 98412 96684 . Sivagami Pethachi Auditorium, M.Ct.M School, 179, Luz Church Road.  
• GK Parigi , [email protected] . In Cine Abinayam star night programme.  
• Indian Institute of Music and Arts , R.K Swamy Auditorium, Sir Sivaswamy Kalalaya, 5, Sundareswarar Street, Mylapore .  
• Kalalayaa Art Academy , 2nd Floor, 100   ft Bye Pass Road, Velachery ( Opposite Bharat Petroleum Petrol Bunk, Above Nuts & Spices ), ☏ +91 98408 77546 .  
• Kartik Fine Arts , ☏ +91 44 2499 7788 , +91 44 2495 2695 . Narada Gana Sabha Hall, TTk Road. ( 30th Year Art Festival ).  
• The Music Academy , ☏ +91 44-2811 2231 , +91 44-2811 5162 , [email protected] . No. 168, T.T.K. Road,Chennai - 600 014.  
• Nungambakkam Cultural Academy Trust .  
• Sir Mutha Venkatasubba Rao Concert Hall , Madras Seva Sadan, No 7, Harrington Road, Chetpet , ☏ +91 44 43561198 , +91 42146632 , [email protected] .  
• Sri Krishna Gana Sabha , Dr. Nalli Gana Vihar, 20. Maharajapuram Santhanam Road, T.Nagar , ☏ +91 44 2814 0806 . The 49th Art and Dance Festival & Pongal Nagaswara Isai Vizha And the 24th Natya Kala Conference. ₹50-500 ( daily rates ) .  
• Sri Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha , Vani Mahal, 103, GN Chetty Road , ☏ +91 44 2815 2166 . ( The 25th Isai Iyal Nataka Vizha ).  
• VDS Arts Academy . MOP Vaishnava College for Women, Nungambakkam. Music and Bharatanatyam dance concerts throughout the year at 6:30PM, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday by young artists. Admission: free.  

Chennai is a major centre of Bharata Natyam with over 1,000 dance performances a year. More dance forms are now encouraged and taught like Kuchipudi (Traditional dance form from Andhra Pradesh ), Mohini Attam , etc. Some other dances like Odissi Manipuri can be found, but are rarer.

When in Chennai, do not miss a chance to watch a movie. There are several new Tamil movie releases every Friday or to coincide with holidays. Apart from Tamil, movies in other Indian languages like Hindi, Kannada, Telugu and Malayalam also get wide releases in Chennai. Many of the Hollywood franchise movies enjoy a huge fan following and are screened at some theaters (dubbed) in Tamil. Make sure to book your tickets in advance especially for the weekend, because most of the cinemas will be sold out. Chennai also provides best cinematic experience at lowest cost ₹120/- and lesser, which is very less compared to other metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Check out any local newspaper or websites to get to know the movies running in and around Chennai. Some of the cinema halls are

• Abhirami Cine Complex . Purasawalkam, in the Abirami Mega mall.  
• AGS Cinemas OMR , Coromandel Plaza 87/1A, 5th Floor, Navalur .  
• AGS Royal . Villivakkam.  
• Devi Cineplex . In the heart of Chennai on Anna Salai. The Cineplex is a huge complex and a great architectural beauty.  
• Ega Cinemas ( formerly Ega Theatres ), 810 Poonamallee High Road , Kilpauk , ☏ +91 9840499445 (bookings), +91 9940699336 (general enquiries) , [email protected] . Features Hindi, Tamil, other South Indian and English movies. The cinemas halls are air-conditioned.  
• Escape Cinemas , Express Avenue, Royapettah , ☏ +91 44 4224 4224 . 8 premier quality screens with 3D, Dolby Atmos and RDX technology. Each of the 8 screens has a different decor which adds to the style quotient of the place.  
• Ganga Theatre Complex . Kolathur.  
• Inox . Chennai Citi Centre, R.K.Salai  
• Kamala Cinemas . Vadapalani, opposite the Green Park hotel.  
• Mayajaal Cine Complex , #34 East Coast Road, Kanathur , [email protected] . ECR. 14-screen multiplex, far away from the bustle of the city. Except in rare cases, reservation is not a must and seats can be booked at the counter.  
• PVR . AMPA SkyWalk Mall, Nelson Manickam Rd. The Grand Mall,Velachery, Heritage RSL ECR.  
• 13.1227 80.1475 1 Rakki Theatre . Ambattur.  
• Rohini Cinema Complex . Koyambedu.  
• Sangam Cine Complex . In kilpauk. For tickets .  
• Sathyam Cine Complex , Thiru-vi-ka Rd , ☏ +91 44 42244224 . One of the best theaters. Provides quality food and the main screen is one of the biggest in India. Celebrities and cine stars frequent this complex.  
• Shanti Cine Complex . Anna Salai  
• S2 Thiagaraya Cinemas .  
• Udhayam Theatre . Ashok Pillar.  
• Vetri Theatre . Chromepet.  
• Palazzo IMAX ( Palazzo Cinemas-Vadapalani ), The Forum Vijaya Mall, NSK Salai, Arcot Road, Vadapalani ( Auto, Taxi, Bus, Metro Train ), ☏ +91 44 4224 4224 . ( updated Jun 2018 )
• Prathana Drive-in Theatre , SH 49, Cholamandal Artists Village, Injambakkam , ☏ +91 44 2449 1402 . Beachside drive-in cinema screening current movies and offering a casual restaurant & kids' play area. This theatre screens two shows per day. Check the weather before you head there, as the shows often get cancelled during rainy days. ( updated Jun 2020 )

Chennai has been one of the prominent sporting location in India, with wide variety of sports played almost everywhere right from every street corners to big stadium matches.

Cricket is a festival per se in India. Every TV in the mall is tuned to cricket during the match season and the whole city tunes in to the sport by one means or another. Chennai is an international venue for cricket and is also a home ground for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) cricket team. While in Chennai it might be interesting to catch a game and enjoy the electric spirit of Indian cricket. Close to Chepauk there are several sporting goods stores where you can buy good quality cricket equipment at low prices.

If you happen to be in Chennai in January, Chennai Book Fair is an event not to miss. Location and dates may vary annually.Plan to visit on a weekday as they attract lesser crowds and you can browse through the collections peacefully. If you pick a weekend or holiday, try to visit in the morning instead of the evening. Look through all the shops but it is usually better to skip the marquee stalls and visit the smaller ones which have books stacked all around. You will be rewarded with some great finds as these shops have lesser known but excellent titles from all around the world. Carry cash as many of the smaller shops do not accept credit/debit cards and cash also helps to bargain down the price of the books to some extent. On average, paperback novels in bargain shops cost ₹100 to ₹200. A budget of ₹3000 should be enough to purchase a good collection of books.

Chennai has dozens of different institutes of higher learning from arts to engineering. The city also offers plenty of opportunities to learn Yoga, Bhartanatyam, Carnatic music and the Bhagavad Gita.

• Alliance française de Madras , ☏ +91 44-28279803 . Indo-French cultural centre and a place to learn the French language.  
• British Council , 737, Anna Salai , ☏ +1-800-102-4353 , [email protected] . English courses, IELTS preparation courses. Also houses a large library in the campus.  
• Chinmaya Mission , 2 13th Ave Harrington Rd, Chetpet , ☏ +91 44 2826 5641 , +91 44 2827 4046 .  
• Goethe Institut , No.4, 5th Street, Rutland Gate , [email protected] . German language courses, culture and other events.  
• International Society For Krishna Consciousness ( ISKCON ), Hare Krishna Land Injambakkam , ☏ +91 44 2501 9303 , +91 44 2501 9147 .  
• Isha Yoga , No 117, Luz Church Road , ☏ +91-44-24981185 , +91 9442515557 (mobile) , [email protected] .  
• Kalakshethra , Kalakshetra Foundation, Tiruvanmiyur , ☏ +91 44 2491 1836 , +91 44 2491 4359 , fax : +91 44 2491 4359 .  
• Kishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram , 31, 4th Cross St, R.K. Nagar , ☏ +91 44 2493 7998 , +91 44 2493 3092 , fax : +91 44 2461 334 .  
• Krishnamurthi Foundation , 124, 126 (Old #64/65) Greenways Rd , ☏ +91 44 2493 7803 , +91 44 2493 7596 , [email protected] .  
• Raja Yoga ( Ishwariya Vishwa Vidhyalayam ). Learn Yoga free of cost.  
• Shri Ram Chandra Mission ( Heart Based Meditation ), SRCM Road, Manapakkam , ☏ +91 44 4217 1111 , toll-free: 1800-103-7726 , [email protected] . Learn Relaxation, Meditation and Yoga free of cost. 0 .  
• Theosophical Society , Adyar , ☏ +91 44 2491 2815 , fax : +91 44 2490 2706 , [email protected] .  

Chennai has a wide selection of rare books and maps in the many second-hand book stalls.

• Alwar's Roadside bookshop . Opposite Kamadhenu theatre in Mylapore.  
• Bookfield ( opposite the LIC building on Anna Salai, Mount Road ).  
• Higginbothams . Anna Salai.  
• Kennedys Book House . Anna Salai.  
• Vendors near the Central Station
• Vendors on Mount Rd outside Devi Theatre and the GPO (General Post Office)

For more current publications:

• Giggles , Connemara Hotel Binny Rd . General books from a friendly shop keeper.  
• Odyssey . Behind Gandhi Nagar Bus Stand, Adyar and Express Avenue,Royapettah  
• Words & worth , No.E28, 2nd Avenue, Besant Nagar , ☏ +91 44 2446 8659 . 10:00am - 8:30pm . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Aavaranaa , 27/14, C V Raman Road, Alwarpet , ☏ +91 44 4500 0020 , [email protected] . Boutique clothing from natural fabrics for women.  
• FabIndia , 3 Woods Rd . The Ilford House location at is probably the best in terms of choices and selections. This is the place to go for all your natural-dyed, hand loomed and hand made textiles. The prices have been going up the last few years, but FabIndia is the only source for this sort of textile in Chennai at any retail outlet.  
• Handloom Exhibitions . Year-round there is always a handloom exhibition profiling the work of one state or the other. These temporary installations (you'll have to check the local papers to find out where they set up) generally have a good selection of interesting fabrics and textile products. And there is always the option to bargain, which makes it a better bet than oft-overpriced retail stores. The Royapettah YMCA (across from Royapettah Hospital) has a regular handloom exhibition.  
• Just Casuals , Nungambakkam, 1, Sterling Rd. , ☏ +91 44 28273882 . A good place to head if you're in the mood for the Banana Republic/Abercrombie/Old Navy/Gap type stuff. They seem to get all the export rejects or overstocks. You'll find that all the brand tags are cut out due to some agreement with the manufacturer. The quality and prices are good, but unfortunately there's no bargaining possible.  
• Raymond shop , 162 Anna Salai ( Opposite to Spencers ). There are several outlets of Raymond shop around Chennai. Custom tailored shirts, suits and other wardrobe accessories for men.  
• Shanti Colony . Annanagar is a hub for "seconds" clothing as in the above description for "Just Casuals".  
• Amethyst , Sundar Mahal, Padmavathi Rd, Jeypore Colony, Gopalapuram , ☏ +91 44 2820 3582 . Handicrafts.  
• Ashvita - Arts and Artifacts , 11 2nd St Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore , ☏ +91 44 2847 6063 . Art, jewellery, photo prints.  
• Crafts and Weaves , #1, 1st Main Road, CIT Colony, Mylapore , ☏ +91 44 2466 0232 . Handicrafts.  
• Giri Stores . Adjacent to Kabaleeswarar Temple, ( opposite the Radha Silk Emporium, Mylapore Tank ). Hindu spiritual items like Rudraksha garlands, books, CDs & tapes for chanting, incense sticks, camphor and lamps.  
• Hidesign , Ispahani Centre, Nungambakkam High Rd & Phase 3, Spencers Plaza . Leather goods.  
• Jidoka Store , 1st Lane, Nungambakkam High Rd , ☏ +91 44 2822 3516 , +91 44 2822 3317 . Handicrafts.  
• Manasthala , 12 Cenotaph Rd , ☏ +91 44 2433 2842 . Terracotta ceramics.  
• Poombukar , 108 Anna Salai, Plandmark ( opposite the LIC building in Annasalai and next to Higgingbothams book store ). They sell handicrafts.  
• Poppat Jamals , Mount Rd Anna Salai ( opp. Spencers Plaza ). Crockery.  
• Victoria Technical Institute , 180, (old No.765) Anna Salai ( Close to Spencer Plaza ), ☏ +91-44-2852 3141 . 10AM-7:30PM . They have a huge display of handicraft items, paintings, wood carvings and metal work statues. ₹20 to any amount .  
• Vimonisha Art Gallery , 12 Khadar Nawaz Khan Rd . Handicrafts.  

Art galleries

• Apparao Galleries , 7th St, Wallace Garden. , ☏ +91 44 2827 226 .  
• Chennai Studio , 222 Peters Rd , ☏ +91 44 98405 43420 . Royapettah.  
• Contemporary arts and crafts showroom , 41 CP Ramaswamy Rd , ☏ +91 44 2499 7069 , +91 44 2466 0159 . Alwarpet  
• Lakshmi Ethiraj Art Gallery , 70 1st Main Rd , ☏ +91 44 4359 223 . CIT Nagar.  
• Prakrit Art Gallery , Dhandayuthapani Nagar, 2nd St, Kotturpuram , ☏ +91 44 42188989 .  
• Raasi Art Gallery , 1 Anna Ave , ☏ +91 44 2441 0389 . Bakthavatsala Nagar, Adayar.  
• Aavaranaa , 15, Ashoka Street, Alwarpet. , ☏ +91 44 24988292 .  
• Co-Optex , No.350, Pantheon Road, Egmore ( Close by Govt Museum and Connemara library ), ☏ +91 44 28193175 . State government operated store. Good place to buy authentic silk sarees and dhotis. They also sell other items like salwar sets, curtains, bedsheets, pillow covers, etc.  
• 1 Sannadhi St, Mylapore , ☏ +91 44 2494 1906 .  
• 827, Dhun Building, Mount Rd , ☏ +91 44 2852 0251 .  
• 23 1st Main Rd, Nanganallur , ☏ +91 44 2232 4176 .  
• Revathy Stores , No. 7/8, RK Mutt Rd ( Luz Bazaar Building ), ☏ +91 44 24934328 . Small store with a wide variety of Kalyani and Indian hand-loomed sarees.  
• Shilpi , 29 C.P. Ramaswamy Rd . Alwarpet.  
• Vardhrams and Son's Silks . Harington Rd, Chetpat.  
• Palam silk , Old no. 67, New no. 153, Luz Church Road, Mylapore , ☏ +91 44-2499 0259 . 10:00 am . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Aarthi Thanga Maligai , 60 East Kalamandapam Rd . Royapuram. Gold for reasonable prices.  
• Aishwarya Jewellery . Mylapore Tank. Gold and silverware.  
• B.B Jewellery , 6/127 Arcot Rd . Porur. Specializing in gold.  
• Bapalal Jewellers . Kakani Towers, Cathedral Road. Diamond merchants.  
• Jaipur Gems , 50 Cathedral Rd . Exclusive designer StarFire Diamond jewellery, authentic Jadau jewellery.  
• Joyalukkas , 39 North Usman Rd . T'Nagar. India's largest exclusive jewellery mall, housing the worlds largest jewellery showroom of international retailer Joyalukkas amongst other world renowned retailers.  
• Jugalkishore Jewellers . CP Ramaswaamy Road, Alwarpet. Traditional and antique jewellery.  
• Kanishk . Usman Road, T'Nagar. Great value for money & wide range.  
• N. Gopaldas , New No. 59, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore . Jewellers since 1929. For exclusive diamond jewellery.  
• Narayana Pearls , Kasi Arcade, T.Nagar . Good collection.  
• Rasvihar . 138 Luz Church Road, Mylapore. For exclusive contemporary jewellery.  
• Tanishq , 100 Ft Bypass Road, near Velachery Lake, Velachery ( close to Phoenix Market City mall ). From the house of Titan. Gold, diamond and platinum jewellery. Trendy collections, transparent pricing and clear billing. Tanishq also operates other outlets in Adyar, Anna Nagar and T.Nagar.  
• Vummidi Bangaru Jewellery , Nungambakkam . Features diamonds and gold. There is also a location T'Nagar.  

Musical instruments

• Lakshman shruthi , Vadapalani Signal, Vadapalani . Musical instruments, CDs.  
• Sapthaswara Musicals . Features Western and Indian musical instruments.  
• Shruthi Musicals , 10 Harleys Rd., Kilpauk , ☏ +91 44 2660 3630 .  
• Sruthilayais , 93 Royapettah High Rd, Mylapore , ☏ +91 44 2499 4045 , +91 44 2498 2625 . Musical instruments.  

In addition to these there are several exhibitions at Das Community Hall (Cathedral Rd) and Shankara Hall (TTK Rd), where artisans display their work. Check the local newspapers for details and timings.

Chennai has numerous restaurants, offering an assortment of cuisine. The beach restaurants are well-maintained and serve great food during the evenings. The eat-outs in Chennai range from budget, midrange and to up-market. There are swanky star-quality restaurants, plain open traditional vegetarian or non-vegetarian restaurants- where you share a table with strangers, street stalls, tea kadais, Indian fast food centres, western fast food centres, food courts, coffee shops, bakeries to exclusive speciality establishments. Vegetarian restaurants serve tiffin and vegetarian meals. There are also a number of restaurants that serve a variety of Tamil, Andhra and Kerala vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare. Many of these restaurants have nowadays diversified and offer other Indian and Indianized Chinese dishes as well. Usually, the check includes a service charge, written next to 'S.C.' If no service charge is added, it is customary to leave a moderate tip.

The East Coast Road abounds with restaurants and eating spots, which offer a wide range of cuisines and a tasteful ambience. And you can plan your dinner or lunch in one of these hotels.

All these budget eateries serve only vegetarian food and are very cheap.

• Cholayil Sanjeevanam , New No. 97, Old No.45, Nungambakkam High Road in Nungambakkam , ☏ +91 44 4549 0324 . A popular vegetarian "health" restaurant that cooks its foods using ayurvedic principles. The food is truly delicious, and the concept is that they are cooked with low amounts of oil, using healthy ingredients. The chain also features ayurvedic and yogic classes.  
• Eat N Drink , 570-N, Anna Salai, Teynampet ( next to Courtyard Marriott ). South Indian fast food, from masala dosas to uttapam and pongal. Fast, cheap, tasty and hygienic. ₹20-40 .  
• Geetha Café, . Pondy Bazaar. South Indian tiffin.  
• Hot Chips . T.Nagar and Anna Nagar for budget priced South Indian tiffin, including North Indian chat (snack) items.  
• Hotel Saravana Bhavan . Probably Chennai's best known vegetarian restaurant chain, with 25 branches in Chennai itself (incl. one next to Kapaleeswarar Temple). Pure vegetarian Indian food with high standards of hygiene. ( updated Jun 2018 )
• Karpagambal Mess , Mylapore, opposite the Kapaleeswarar temple . Cheap and authentic South Indian Food.  
• Kebab Junction , No. 19, Mount Road, Royapettah, NV ( opp. Express Ave, near Melody theatre ), ☏ +91 44 4215 8036 .  
• Mansuk's , T.Nagar. . Best for Bombay Chat, Lassi and an unlimited Gujarati Thali.  
• Palimar , Parsn Complex, Mount Rd, Anna Salai . South Indian cuisine.  
• Rathna Cafe , Triplicane. also Thiruvanmiyur, opposite the RTO . For fluffy hot idlis, hot vadai, delicious pongal dripping in ghee and accompanied by sambhar. Quality maintained for more than 100 years. More expensive than Murugan Idli shop.  
• Sangeetha , No. 82, Nungambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam ( at intersection of Valluvar Kottam High Rd and Nungambakkam High Rd ). Vegetarian chain restaurant with a mix of good-quality and tasty South Indian, North Indian, and "Indo-Chinese" cuisine at very reasonable prices.  
• The Spice Box , Thiruvanmyur , ☏ +91 44 4304 2365 . Lunch deliveries and gourmet outdoor catering. Wholesome, innovative lunch-dinner in 6 options is great to try out.  
• Sri Krishna Sweets , Mount Rd, Spencers Plaza, Adayar, Anna Salai, also at MG Rd, Shastri Nagar . Indian sweets & salad bar. North Indian "chat" (snack) items.  
• Vasantha Bhavan ( near Vadapalani Bus stand ). Chain of vegetarian restaurants.  
• Aiwo ( Vegetarian ), 7 Rosy Towers, Nungambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam. , ☏ +91 44 66514241 . Fusion and health foods. A 14-course meal served on a conveyer belt that moves around the room. Various dishes served are supposed to be cooked in olive oil. Healthy tasty food for the health conscious. Table reservations. South Indian ₹199 per meal inclusive of taxes .  
• Amaravathi ( non-vegetarian ), 1 Cathedral Road Gopalpuram , ☏ +91 44 28116416 , +91 44 28110305 . Daily 11AM-11PM . South Indian sea food cuisines and is known for its spicy Andhra food . Their famous Andhra meals, chicken and mutton biryani. Vazahapoo and keerai vadi are a must try. Chilly chicken, chili paneer, momos, soups, burgers, rolls, etc. Punjabi dishes like kadhai chicken, butter chicken, daal makhni, roti, butter naan, paneer butter masala, allu matar etc. Special fish prawns and Amaravathi chicken are the main dishs of the restaurant. Seating: 135 covers. Valet parking and take away. Table reservations. South Indian . Average for 2 persons ₹500 .  
• Amethyst cafe and restaurant , Sundar Mahal, Padmavathi Road, Jeypore Colony, Gopalapuram , ☏ +91 44 2820 3582 , +91 44 28353581 (resv) . Vegetarian. Multi-cuisine . Garden and patio cafe and restaurant with a mix of western (pastas, burgers) and Indian fare. Cuisines served by Amethyst are Coffee and International. It is a nice, cozy, romantic place to chill out on weekends. Their cuisine is nice and so is their interiors. Its a colonial house turned into a restaurant. Table reservations available.  
• Amma , 1 Dr. Giri Rd, T Nagar ( near Bharathi Raja Hospital ), ☏ +91 44 28340242 . 11:30AM-3:30PM and 7PM-10:30PM . Non-vegetarian South Indian. Known for authentic Chettinadu cuisine. Table reservations ( non-vegetarian ). Meals for 2 around ₹350 .  
• J.P. Tower, 7/2, Nungambakkam High Rd. , ☏ +91 44 28217200 , +91 44 2825666 , +91 44 42144573 .  
• Anna Nagar , ☏ +91 44 26264111 .  
• Chennai Airport-Food Court- Anna International Airport , ☏ +91 44 22561793 , +91 44 2256194 .  
• Near Central Station , ☏ +91 44 25382666 , +91 44 25383334 .  
• Egmore , ☏ +91 44 42134111 , +91 44 42179222 .  
• Purasaiwalkam , ☏ +91 44 42089188 , +91 44 26400200 .   * T'Nagar , ☏ +91 44 224328444 , +91 44 224328555 .  
• Mylapore , ☏ +91 44 224982883 , +91 44 224981226 .  
• R.K.Salai , ☏ +91 44 228114555 , +91 44 28114666 .  
• Annalakshmi , 18/3, Rukmani Lakshmipathy Rd (Marshall Rd), Sigapi Achi Building I Floor, Egmore ( Adjacent to Raja Muthaiah & Rani Meyyammai Hall ), ☏ +91 44 228525109 . Tu-Su noon-2:30PM, 7:30PM-9:45PM . Vegetarian. This is a must-try expensive South Indian food restaurant. Elegant ambience, friendly service and good food. Filling portions served. Best selling dishes- Elumichai Sevai, Badam-saffron milkshake. Elite crowd. Table reservations. South Indian . ₹1,000 for 2 meals .  
• Anupama Southern Spice , 25, 1st Floor, G.N. Chetty Road, Thyagaraya Nagar , ☏ +91 44 31000733 . Non-Vegetarian. Specialty Andhra Cuisine. Table reservations. South Indian.  
• The Cascade , ☏ +91 44 2834 3030 . Quality Inn Sabari, 1. floor, 29 Thirumalai Pillai Rd, T.Nagar. Chinese food  
• The Chimney ( non-vegetarian ), ☏ +91 44 2472 5950 . Liberty Park Hotel 9, 1st Main Road, U.I. Colony, Kodambakkam. Predominantly North-Indian kebabs & Chinese cuisines served. A very pleasant place on the cooler evenings when there's always a gentle breeze. Table reservations. Rooftop Dining  
• Curry House , 2, Block AB, 11th Ave, Anna Nagar , ☏ +91 44 42611167 , +91 44 42611168 . Noon-3PM, 7PM-11PM . Non-vegetarian. Multi-cuisine . Chettinad, and Kerala delicacies. Good tandoori fare of the non-veg variety popular among the Punjabi's and found all over Delhi. Table reservations. Meals for two around ₹350 .  
• Dynasty , 315, Valluvarkottam High Rd, Nungambakkam ( Harrisons Hotel ), ☏ +91 44 22227775 . Non-vegetarian. Good quality Chinese-Indian cuisine. Reservations available. Chinese food.  
• Shanghai Annaachi , 9B, 1st Floor, Kakani Tower, New No. 34, Old No. 15, Khader Nawaz Khan Rd , ☏ +91 93 2357063 . Chinese food  
• Dhaba Express ( non-vegetarian ), 9 Cenotaph Rd , ☏ +91 44 2432 8212 . 11AM-3PM, 7PM-11PM daily . Teynampet, and Nungambakkam High Rd. Cuisines served by Dhaba Express are North Indian. They serve Chicken Tikka Masala, Mutton Rogan Josh, Tandoori Aloo (starter), Naans and Roomali Rotis. Valet parking. Table reservations. Meals for two ₹500 .  
• ECR Dhaba , 9/76, Kunnukadu, East Coast Rd ( Near Muttukadu Boat House ), ☏ +91 44 44 27472943 . 11AM-11:45PM . Non-vegetarian. Punjabi food. Table reservations.  
• Coastline ( non-vegetarian ), 118, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore , ☏ +91 44 28251128 . South Indian seafood. Freshly done interiors, slow service but delicious food. Crab rasam, prawn or fish biryani. Vide variety of sea food offerings. Must-try place. Table reservations Meals for two ₹600 .  
• Barbeque Nation , Sri Devi Park hotel , [email protected] . Buffet costs ₹1,000 per person, advance reservation is strongly recommended.  
• Eden's , Harrisons Hotel, 315, Valluvarkottam High Road, Nungambakkam . Wonderful Continental cuisine, fully vegetarian.  
• 4/359,Gatsby Village, Mgr Road, +91 44 24493924
• 11, Shop 2, 2nd Floor, Greams Road, Landmark: Near Thousand Lights Police Station Phone: +91 44 28291077, 28292190
• Gyan Vaishnav . Mount Road, near Anand Theatre. North Indian.  
• Kadalivanam . Mogappair, 100% natural, fully vegetarian restaurant.  
• Karaikudi , ☏ +91 44 2815 1021 . VeeraRaghava Road, T. Nagar (also at Anna Nagar, Besant Nagar, Mylapore, Thiruvanmiyur) Chettinadu cuisine.  
• Murugans Idli Shop . 2 locations: GN Chetty Road T. Nagar and Besant Nagar. Murugan Idli Shop is a chain restaurant, and the GN Chetty Road shop in particular is a well-kept secret among locals as a purveyor of high-quality food; on weekends, there is a long line for entry. South Indian. One meal is ₹20-40 .  
• Noodle House . A chain restaurant, whoese locations include: 1. Spencers Plaza, Anna Salai (Mount Road) and 2. the Intersection of Sterling Road and Nungambakkam High Road in Nungambakkam. Chinese.  
• Pizzaurant . Velachery Road, Little Mount, Saidapet. Cuisine pizza & pasta. (Without MSG.) Home delivery for nearby areas, very Indian.  
• Poonamallee , Breeze Hotel, 850, Poonamallee High Road , ☏ +91 44 2641 3334 . +91 44 2643 0596. Multi-cuisine.  
• Ponnusamy , Commander-in-Chief Road (opp Ethiraj College), Egmore . Chettinadu cuisine  
• Rangis , Nungambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam . Chinese.  
• Swati and Swayam , At Saravana Bhavan, Peters Road . South Indian.  
• Cedars , Wallace Garden Road, Nungambakkam , ☏ +91 44 42182397 . Dim lit ambience is beautiful with exquisite furnishing in Mediterranean style. They serve the most authentic Lebanese, Middle Eastern delicacies and some interesting Mediterranean cuisines.  
• Kayal , Le Royal Meridien, 1, G.S.T. Road, St. Thomas Mount , ☏ +91 44 22314343 , +91 44 43534545 (reservations) . 7PM-11:30PM . Seafood restaurant. Coriander prawn, seafood platter, Kadia lobster, prawn biryani. Nice complimentary garlic bread with butter. very expensive .  
• Dakshin , Park Sheraton Hotel and Towers, 132, T.T.K. Road, Alwarpet , ☏ +91 44 24994101 . 12:30PM-2:45PM, 7:30PM-11:45PM . South Indian Cuisines- Dakshin offers the 'rare' pleasures of ethnic coastal and regional cuisines. The choicest cuisine of the four Southern states served in a regal setting. Live Carnatic Music. Expensive but excellent food- Starters include traditional, kuli paniyaram. Try the Idi appam or Appam with mutton stew. Desert: Kulfi.  
• Southern Spice , Taj Coromandel, Nungambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam , ☏ +91 44 55002827 .  

Chennai is a difficult place to drink. Government rule states that only establishments with a minimum of 21 rooms can obtain a bar or liquor license. Hence there are no standalone bars or pubs here. All the bars that are around are part of some hotel or the other and in general overpriced.

Government-run liquor stores called TASMAC are all over the place but in general not at all a pleasant experience. They usually have unpleasant staff and environment and usually will have local brands. Also, they always tend to mark up each bottle by ₹5-10 over the listed price. Go for it if you want a one-time war-like experience in order to obtain some booze!

Nightclubs close at 11PM, even on Fridays and Saturdays, according to government rule.

• Hudson , Harrisons Hotel, 315, Valluvar Kottam High Road, Nungambakkam , ☏ +91 44 4222 2777 . Has two levels. Hudson Upper and H2O. Cramped seating providing very little privacy. The liquor stable is limited to the local brands and a bottle or two of scotch.  
• Million Dollars , 100 Feet Rd . Hotel Ambica Empire, Vadapalani  
• Star Rock . Kodambakkam High Road (Next to Palmgrove hotel), Nungambakkam  
• Zero° bar , 29 Thirumalai Pillai Rd . Quality Inn Sabari, ground floor, T.Nagar  
• Distil Bar . Taj Connemara, Binny Road  
• Dublin . Park Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Chamiers Road, Alwarpet, +91 24994101  
• Durrants Bar . Chola Sheraton, Cathedral Road, +91 28110101  
• Above Sea Level , Hotel Raintree, St.Mary's Road, Alwarpet .  
• 10 Downing Street , Kences Inn Hotel, North Boag Road, T Nagar .  
• The Westminster , ☏ +91 44 2499 4101 . Park Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Chamiers Road, Alwarpet  
• Zara . Cathedral Road.  
• Zodiac- Lounge Bar , The Accord Metropolitan, 35,G.N.Chetty Road, T'Nagar , ☏ +91 44 28161000 . 11AM–midnight . Popular labels, ingenious cocktails, rare blends of liquor & a wide selection of hot and cold canapés. Seating capacity 76.  

Local specialities - soft drinks

• Fruit Bizz ( Adyar signal ), left corner building from ananda bhavan road to guindy . This is one of the best juice shops very famous in adyar region. Shop open from morning 10AM till 1AM. ₹30-50 .  
• NeerMoar . Spicy butter milk, with local seasoning. Available at most South Indian restaurants.  
• Tender Coconut . Definitely try a tender coconut on a hot summer's day. Available on roadside stalls at ₹35 to 40, a coconut.  

The closest hotels to the airport are The Trident , Le Royal Meridian , Hilton and Radisson GRT Hotel all five-star properties.

Chennai is generally a safer area of India in terms of crime, although pickpocketing, muggings, and robberies sporadically occur. Keep your doors and windows shut and locked at night and do not carry or display large amounts of cash if possible.

It is advisable for women, especially unaccompanied ones, to dress modestly and limit their interaction with unfamiliar local men. Foreigners are generally overcharged by autorickshaws simply because they are ignorant of the prevailing fares. It is necessary to confirm whether the driver knows the exact destination and to fix the fare before boarding. 'Autos', as autorickshaws are known in Chennai, are notorious for fleecing customers, tourists and locals alike.

Be alert to your surroundings and watch where you step, especially if you get caught in a large crowd where it is difficult to look at what is in front of you. Cross streets extremely carefully as traffic is generally heavy. On major roads, use the underground crossings (locally called "subways"). Avoid using underground road-crossing/ subways in the night or if you notice them to be empty. Traffic signals are frequently ignored by drivers and pedestrians alike, and it is not at all advisable for tourists to try driving in Chennai.

Stay healthy

While in Chennai it is advisable to drink bottled water and keep a bottle handy as it is extremely hot . Eating fresh vegetables and fruits that have sat outside in the presence of insects can also be unhealthy, although bananas and coconuts are usually safe because they are opened only immediately before eating. Hot drinks in restaurants such as tea, coffee, and other local specialities are safe, as are packaged/bottled drinks such as Aquafina water, Frooti (a popular local mango drink) and others. If you have access to a stove, boiling tap water before drinking is also an option. Chennai summers are humid and sultry; it's better to step out with an umbrella , bottled water and some oral rehydration salts (available from pharmacies, the brand name is Electral ). These come in handy if you happen to get dehydrated.

• 13.084764 80.249831 2 Aysha Hospital , 91A Millers Rd , ☏ +91 44 4228 8500 .  
• Balaji Hospital , G.S.T Road,Guindy , ☏ +91 44 2234 5282 .  
• New Hope Medical Centre , 814, Poonamallee High Rd,, Kilpauk , ☏ +91 44 4344 1544 , [email protected] .  
• CSI Rainy Hospital , Royapuram , ☏ +91 44 25951329 .  
• Ramachandra Hospital , Porur , ☏ +91 44 2476 8403 .  
• Dr.Kamakshi Memorial Hospital , No1, Radial Road, Pallikaranai , ☏ +91 44 6630 0300 .  
• Dr.Mehta's Hospital , No2,McNichols Road,3rd Lane,Chetpet , ☏ +91 44 42271000 .  
• Devaki Hospitals ( Opposite to Rangachari cloth store mylapor ).  
• Apollo Pharmacy , All Over the City
• Health & Glow , Spencers Plaza (Phase 3), Mount Road; Nungambakkam High Road
• Madras Medical Mission [ dead link ] , 24 Hr. Pharmacy, Mogappiar
• The Psychotherapy Clinic ,26/1, Arcot Street, T.Nagar
• My Mother Pharmacy ,E.B.Colony
• Parasu Dental Pharmacy 11, 3rd cross st kasthurbha nagar adyar chennai - 20 ph 4211 5000
• MedPlus India , All Over the City

BSNL and Airtel Reliance Jio, Tata, are main providers of terrestrial telephone lines in Chennai. You can make long-distance calls from one of the many booths that display NSD/ISD i.e. National Subscriber Dialling (National Long Distance) and International Subscriber Dialling (International Long Distance).

Mobile phones

Mobile phone rates are among the cheapest in the world. There are mainly 4 service providers:

• BSNL [ dead link ] GSM Triband with 3G services
• AirTel GSM Triband with 4G services
• Vodafone [ dead link ] GSM Triband with 4G services
• Jio 4G Services with Advanced High Speed Network

You can buy a sim card with a photo and a copy of your passport or local ID should you have any.

CDMA service providers are Reliance [ dead link ] , TATA Indicom [ dead link ] , Virgin Mobile and MTS .

Starter packs and top-up cards can be picked up from numerous outlets. Seamless roaming across the country is provided by all providers.

There are several Internet cafes from where you can access the internet for sending email or uploading your digital photos, however they are not very common now.

Mobile data is very cheap. 1.5GB per day costs around Rs.250 for 28 days. You may find it sufficient to roam throughout the city on this data.

• MTS MBLAZE High Speed Broadband Internet Through USB Modems. Call +91 9150-955-955

Apart from that you can access Internet provided in your hotel or if you are staying long you can buy a local SIM card and use a portable Hotspot.

• ABN Amro , Harrington Road, Opp Residency Hotel on GN Chetty Road, Adyar - Sardar Patel Road, TTK Road, next to Citibank branch
• Andhra Bank , All over Chennai
• HSBC , Adyar, Mylapore, Pondy Bazzar, Tidel Park, Kadar Nawaz Khan Road, Annanagar, Rajaji Salai, Kathipara Junction
• American Express , Near Anand Theatre, Anna Salai (Mount Road)
• Citibank , Opp Spencers Plaza, Anna Salai (Mount Road); Opp Hotel Parthan, GN Chetty Road, Opposite Citi Centre, Velachery Highway, near Vijaya Nagar Bus terminus, Nanganallur.
• HDFC Bank , ITC Centre, Anna Salai (Mount Road),Anna Nagar(West); All over Chennai
• ICICI Bank , All over Chennai
• Axis Bank , All over Chennai
• Standard Chartered Bank , Haddows Road
• State Bank of India , All over Chennai. They have an ATM locator online.
• Indian Overseas Bank , All over Chennai, they have InstaCash ATMs.
• Indian bank , All over Chennai
• Oriental Bank of Commerce , Adyar LB Road, Mylapore, G N Chetty Road T nagar.

ATM cards issued by any bank will work with ATM of any other bank, but they may impose restrictions on number of transactions, amount per transaction and may also charge a small transaction fee of ₹20.

Money changers

Many hotels will change money for you at the front desk. However, they may not have the best rates.

It is best to change money at the city-based money changers than the ones at the airports. The ones at the airport offer much less for exchanging forex into Indian rupees (₹) and sell forex for a much higher rate than the market rate.

• American Express , Spencers Plaza, Anna salai
• Thomas Cook , Spencers Plaza, Anna salai

Beauty parlors & hair salons

• Ayush , Anna Nagar (+91 26223102/26223446/26203862), Kilpauk (+91 52179635/26472298), Mylapore (+91 52067071/30907691) - Therapy includes Abhyangam , Abhyangam with Pichu , Abhyangam with local Pizhichil , Abhyangam with Thalam , Udvartanam , Abhyangam with Nasyam , Abhyangam with local Navarakizhi , Muka Lepam
• Anushka ,6, Thyagaraya Road, Pondy Bazaar, T.Nagar, +91 52179197
• Celeste Beauty Salon , Spencer Plaza,(Mobile -9941130508) F-26, Phase 1, First floor
• Dollys beauty parlour , Elcanso Plaza, Egmore, +91 9840118882
• Green Trends , 1576, 13th Main Road, Anna Nagar (+91 26161534); Ashok Nagar (+91 52193636); Adyar (+91 24451759); Purusawakkam (+91 52174414); Taylors Road, Kilpauk (+91 26453331); T. Nagar (+91 28143886); Velachery (+91 22445590); Virugambakkam (+91 55511973) - Exotic natural treatments like Strawberry facial, Avocado Butter Massage Facial, Red Banana Facial, Baby-Corn under eye treatment! etc.
• Jazzy , North Boag Road, T. Nagar
• Lakme [ dead link ] , Adayar (+91 24469730), Alwarpet (+91 24662481), Anna Nagar (+91 26268841), Ashok Nagar (+91 23750207), Kilpauk (+91 52179634), Nungambakkam (+91 28333050), T. Nagar (+91 28155577)
• Naturals [ dead link ] , Unisex beauty salon with more than 100 salons around Chennai.
• Salon Nayana , GN Chetty Road, T. Nagar, +91 28256064
• Style Mantra- Makeover Concepts , Nungambakkam (+91 28280066), R.K. Salai (+91 28110707)
• Blue 'Boutique Gym' -329, TTK Road, Alwarpet.#24996045,24996064.
• Body Sports Gym -Govindan Road, Saidapet. #9841151091
• Gold's Gym 17, Kasturi Rangan Road Alwarpet, +91 44 42088201
• Mind N Body 360 degree Fitness Studio - Ramapuram & Mugalivakkam. #9600030058, 8754409900, 044-42014949
• O2 Gym , Kader Nawaz Road, Nungambakkam, Velachery
• Soldiers Gym , Triplicane High Road, Triplicane (and on Anna Salai)
• Talwalkars , Near Khader Nawaz Road, Nungambakkam
• Talwalkars , 23rd Cross Street,Indira Nagar, Adyar

Post & telegraphs

The telegraph office on Anna Salai (Mount Rd), near Higgin Bothoms accepts letters and parcels up to 8PM with a small late fee. Snail Mail in India is by a Post Card (25Ps), Inland Letter ₹5, or envelope ₹5. Speed Post [ dead link ] facility allows you to send mail more conveniently than a courier service. They have a pan India coverage and also provide international service. International delivery is considerably slower than private competitors like FedEX or UPS but it is also much cheaper. Telegraph services have been discontinued from July 2013 citing very poor response.

Due to proliferation of mobile phones and VOIP, the public telephones are fast disappearing. Telephone Booths or public telephones in India can still be found near travel hotspots like the airport, railway station or CMBT and usually painted with the letters PCO (Public Call office,local calls), STD (Subscriber Trunk Dialling) and ISD (International Subscriber Dialling). All booths have electronic metering and you pay what's displayed on the meter (included in the metering is a nominal ₹2 as service charges). You'll also get a receipt if you insist on one. Coin operated phones ₹1 are located in many busy junctions (easily identified by bright yellow or red colour) but support only local calls.

Libraries & cultural centres

• American Information Resource Center Library (within the American Consulate - see list of consulates)
• Anna Centenary Library - Kotturpuram, ☏ +91 44 65515031
• British Council - Anna Salai, ☏ +91 44 52050600 Ext 350 .
• Max Mueller Bhavan (German) - Khadar Nawaz Khan Rd., Nungambakkam.
• Ahaa Water Park: A spot for frolicking in the water, the Ahaa Water Park offers a variety of water sports and fun activities. It has a wave generator, which can generate waves of up to 3.5   ft.
• Little Folks Specifically aimed at providing entertainment for the children, this park has a longer history than MGM. (Dolphin City was closed after all of its dolphins and sea lions had died. It is no longer operational now.)
• Radio Control Car Racing at ECR RC Track: Chennai has the only active RC Car race track in India. On a weekend, you can find several RC car racers at the ECR RC Track located near Hot Kitchen Restaurant on ECR Road. It is very close to the Kart Attack track. Visit IRCRA on Facebook for more details.
• Tiruvidanthai Nithya Kalyana Perumal Koil: As the name denotes, a temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara is found on East Coast Road.

• Chengalpattu — home to Karikili and Vedhantangal bird sanctuaries and Vedagiriswarar Temple
• Covelong and Muttukadu — two adjacent coastal towns south of Chennai. They have some beach resorts and a heritage museum.
• Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin) — Site of the famous Vivekananda memorial.
• Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram has many temples, mostly built during the Pallava Dynasty, including several on the UNESCO World Heritage List . The town is also famous for stone carving and has schools that train most of India's carvers. Carvings and other handicrafts are sold all over town. It is easy to visit Mahabalipuram as a day trip from Chennai, but there are enough attractions to make staying overnight or for a few days an attractive proposition as well, and the town has extensive tourist facilities. One of the most famous temples here is the Shore Temple , next to the beach; if coming from Chennai ensure you reach this temple between 6AM and 6PM, as it is shut down after 6PM.
• Pondicherry (163   km. Take a bus) — Go on a spiritual trip or volunteer at Auroville - an experimental township with no religion or politics. The drive down the East Coast Road (ECR) is delightful, with lovely beaches all along the way, and on the way you can stop over at the Botanical Gardens.
• Rameswaram (569   km. Take a bus or a train)
• Tiruvannamalai (185   km. Take a bus)
• Tirupati (158   km. Take a bus or a train)

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Chennai (Madras) Tourism And Travel Guide

Chennai, erstwhile called Madras, is one of the most noteworthy tourist places of Southern India . More than being called a tourist place, Chennai is a city that in spite of becoming one among the trendiest cities of the country, still follows its own unique traditions and cultures and has so many breathtakingly beautiful places like the beaches, sanctuaries and museums that draw tourists to the city. And that is not all. Chennai is the gateway to the Group of Monuments at Mamallapuram . 

Chennai is known as one of the IT hubs of the country and is fast emerging as a significant region for medical tourism, thanks to a well developed medical infrastructure. If you would love to visit Chennai, our travel and tourism guide will help you plan a trip.

How to Reach

Chennai is well connected to all major cities of India . The easiest and fastest way to reach Chennai would be by flight.

Chennai has flights from most Indian cities and from overseas too. The domestic and International terminals lie close by and from the airport you can board an airport metro or suburban train to your destination.

The Egmore Railway Station caters to trains from the south, while the Central Railway Station has trains from all over India. Both stations have metro service. Otherwise there are the taxis and auto rickshaws.

Private and Government buses run between Chennai and the neighbouring states. You could also self-drive or hire a cab to reach Chennai.

Getting Around:

There are metro trains, suburban electric trains, regular and ac buses, auto rickshaws and cabs that can be used to travel in the city. If you are travelling solo, you could even rent a two wheeler.

• How To Reach Chennai (Madras)

Weather and the Best time to Visit

Chennai has a tropical climate throughout the year. The best time to visit Chennai would be from the months of December to February, when it is winter and the days are pleasantly calm and are perfect for sightseeing and touring the city.

Summer (March-May):

Summer months can occasionally get the heat-wave. Chennai gets hot and sweaty and you are likely to spend the day indoors. Nights get cooler as the sea breeze blows inward and it’s lovely to sit up on the beach and watch the sun set, beyond the waves.

Monsoon (June-November):

Southwest monsoon sets in by June and quickly passes away, followed by the northeast monsoon with torrential rainfall, cyclones and floods. Monsoon is definitely not a time for tourism in Chennai.

Winter (December-February):

There are light December showers. Weather clears up by January and a pleasant season sets in with mild foggy mornings and warm, pleasant days. Winter’s the right time to pack up and arrive at Chennai.

• Chennai (Madras) Weather And Best Time To Visit Chennai (Madras)

Things to Do

Arts of Chennai:

Cholamandalam Artists Village is an artists’ community of contemporary art and sculpture at Injambakkam in Chennai. Visit the art gallery, amphitheatre and the museum in the village.

DakshinaChitra is a living heritage museum of the lifestyles, art, architecture and the cultural traditions of Southern India . Spend a day at DakshinaChitra and you’ll have your hands full, attending ceramic and pottery making classes, art and craft workshops for kids and grownups and visiting the crafts bazaar for garments, traditional toys, jewellery and folk crafts.

Heritage Buildings:

If you’re travelling to Chennai by train, your journey as a tourist begins with Chennai’s railway stations. The Egmore Railway Station was built in 1908, in a Gothic style with imposing domes and corridors while the Central Station built in the Gothic Revival and Romanesque styles was opened way back in 1873. Check out the 136 ft high Clock Tower in the main Heritage building of Central Station.

East Coast Road:

Take a long drive on the SH49 or East Coast Road along the Bay of Bengal all the way from Chennai to Kanyakumari . The landscape is amazingly beautiful with a view of the sea alongside and a number of heritage monuments, temples, resorts and tourist towns on the way.

Visit the Dutch Fort:

Visit Sadras or Saduranga Pattinam, an ancient town near Chennai which has the remnants of the glorious Sadras Fort built by the Dutch. Check out the cemetery with tombs dating sometime between 1620 to 1769.

Peacock Trail:

Go for a leisurely stroll along Mylapore on the Peacock Trail Walking Tour. Discuss stories on traditions and customs, about local life and about Mylapore and Chennai as you walk along.

Muttukaadu Backwaters:

Spend an evening at Muttukaadu, the beautiful backwaters of the Bay of Bengal. Go skiing, rowing or ride a water scooter on the lake. It’s fun time for the family. 

• Things To Do In Chennai (Madras)
• 8 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Chennai

Visit T. Nagar for clothes and jewellery, you’d find some of Chennai’s most popular showrooms in T. Nagar. Go to Mylapore near Kapaleshwara Temple for devotional stuff like prayer beads, incense holders, books and a wide range of bronze ware like idols and lamps, costumes and jewellery for traditional dances that would be the most charming souvenirs.

For traditional arts and craft items visit Victoria Technical Institute, and check out branded stuff in Phoenix Marketcity, Express Avenue, Spencer Plaza and Forum Vijaya Mall. Visit The Grand Sweets and Snacks and Suswaad for sweets and spiced snacks. Don’t miss out on the age old artefacts, daggers, Pashmina Shawls, sculptures, jewels, caskets etc in the Old Curiosity Shop in Mount Road. The State Government’s Poompuhar showrooms have handicrafts and handloom materials. Visit Moore market for books, gramophones, antiques, and ancient coins etc and Pallavaram Friday Market for plants and pets.

Hotel Saravana Bhavan for dosas, and vadas soaked in sambhar, Murugan Idli for idlis, Adyar Ananda Bhavan for sweets, Dindugal Talapakatti for Biryani are some of the brand names of Chennai. Try Pongal and Vadai from Rayar Mess, Keerai Vada and Pineapple Rasam from Mylapore Sri Karpagambal Mess and Kozhukattai or sweet dumplings from Maami’s Mess and Rose Milk from Kalathi Newspaper Mart.

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Chennai travel guide

Chennai tourism | chennai guide, you're going to love chennai.

Chennai is a vibrant blend of coastal and urban scenery. The city formerly known as Madras was settled by the British just 400 years ago, but today it has spread to incorporate villages that are 1,000 years old.

Chennai is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu and the so-called gateway to southern India. Although most of its residents are Tamil, you'll see traces of its British, Portuguese, Dutch, and French colonists all over the city.

A superb location on the Coromandel Coast on the Bay of Bengal, a thriving art and local culture scene, and friendly locals - what's not to love about Chennai?

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Chennai

1. its cultural heritage.

Chennai is the cultural capital of southern India and the birthplace of Carnatic music. Visit in December for the Chennai Music Season, a month-long celebration of classical music and dance, or catch events all year round at the Music Academy and Kalakshetra Foundation.

2. The Beaches

At 7.5 miles, Marina Beach is the second longest stretch of municipal beachfront in the world, and it's a wonderful place to enjoy a sunset or sunrise. Edward Elliot's Beach is just south of Marina and has a party atmosphere by night, while quieter Breezy Beach is popular with families and tourists.

3. Chennai's Churches

Colonial settlers built their own churches in Chennai, such as St. Mary's Church, which was Asia's first Anglican church and all that remains of the Fort St. George. Many of the city's oldest churches were built by the Portuguese, including the 16th-century Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Thomas - one of just three churches in the world to be erected on the site of a prophet's tomb. Other noteworthy churches are St. Thomas Mount, St. Matthias Church, and the 107-year-old Tamil Baptist Church in Kilpauk.

4. Nature and Wildlife

Guindy National Park is the smallest national park in the country and the only one that's in the center of a city. See Indian antelope, elephant, pangolin, and many other species in their natural habitat, or pop next door to Guindy Snake Park to see King cobra, vipers, and Indian rock python.

5. The Shopping

Whether you prefer local markets or glitzy malls, specialty shops or stores that sell the finest silks and saris, you can find them in Chennai. Try Egmore for upscale clothing stores or visit the Burma Bazaar in George Town for the pure mulberry silk of Tamil Nadu.

What to do in Chennai

1. marina beach: relax in style.

Located on Kamarajar Salai Road, 3 km from the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is the Marina Beach. It's simply a little heaven on earth. Relax your mind with a horseback ride along the majestic shores and fill your lungs with the fresh air. Witness firsthand how the distant golden sun greets and leaves the beach each day and as you walk along the shores. Feel the golden sand massaging the soles of your feet as the refreshing blue waters of the sea kiss your feet.

2. Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Unleash the Power of Divine Art

Feast your eyes on the breathtaking carvings that tirelessly keep watch over this beautiful shrine. Be at one with the ancient gods and cleanse yourself by taking part in the daily rituals. Afterward, satisfy your curiosity by exploring the wonderfully decorated and interesting painted sculptures. The peaceful feeling that results from spending quality time in this holy place could tempt you to go back again.

3. Fort St. George: The Two-In-One Treat

Founded in 1644, this awe-inspiring wonder is known for housing St Mary's Church as well as the Fort Museum. Take the chance to reflect and pay homage to the masters of the fort when you visit the impeccable tombstones at the church's graveyard, and activate your artistic senses at the three-storey showroom. Here, colorful paintings and other invaluable works of art, such as medals and tableware, attractively grace each room.

4. Valluvar Kottam: Home to India's finest Saint And Poet

Valluvar Kottam is a historical monument that was built in honor of India's great poet and saint Thiruvalluvar. Mesmerize yourself with the unique design of the structure that stands tall with no pillars to support it. Share in Saint Thiruvalluvar's wisdom by reading his profound work, referred to as Thirukkural, which has 133 chapters. Be spellbound by the bold lion at the main gateway that houses many carefully-crafted designs.

5. Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Epitome of Wild Beauty

In the Vandalur suburb you will find the Arignar Anna Zoological Park that is a haven for plants and animals alike. Stretched beautifully across 1260 acres of lush land, the park prides itself on being a shelter to a variety of plant and animal species. View the power of the mighty lion from a safe distance and watch as the swift cheetah prowls in its natural habitat. With numerous animal species, you'll be spoilt for choice of things to see.

Activities & attractions in Chennai

Where to Eat in Chennai

Street food is popular and you'll find vendors selling traditional dosa, a light crepe made from rice flour, with sambar (lentil and tamarind stew) or muttai dosai, a variant made with black lentils, all over the city. For something more filling, try Southern Indian Andhra food including biryani dishes, pickles, and chutney at Amaravathi in Cathedral Road, or visit Southern Spice at the Taj Coromandel Hotel for an upscale version. Be sure to try traditional Indian deserts like kulfis and faloodas - DOJO Kulfis (Mundaga Kanni Amman Koil St) is a Chennai institution! A meal in a mid-range restaurant costs ₹500.

When to visit Chennai

Chennai can be incredibly hot with temperatures soaring to 113 degrees Fahrenheit in the middle of summer (March to October). However, thanks to its high rainfall and proximity to the coast, the city is pleasant and enjoyable for most of the year. That said, November to February is widely considered to be the best time for a vacation in Chennai. Temperatures are a little lower and you can catch events like the traditional Chennai Music Season and the Pongal Harvest Festival.

How to Get to Chennai

All international flights arrive at Anna Terminal in Chennai International Airport (MAA). The airport is five miles from the city center and travelers can take the suburban train service to Chennai Park or Egmore for ₹5. Alternatively, take the subway (blue line) from outside the terminal to Little Mount and then change at Alandur for St. Thomas Mount or the CMBT bus terminus (green line) - tickets cost ₹40. Pre-paid taxis are also available and the trip costs ₹300.

There are two long-distance rail stations in the city: Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore, both fairly central. Trains from the Tamil Nadu region terminate at Egmore, while daily trains from other destinations like Mumbai and Delhi arrive at Chennai Central. You can find pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws outside both stations.

Chennai is within reach of several major routes. If you're driving from Bangalore take the Grand Southern Trunk Road (National Highway 45) to connect with Anna Salai, the main road through south and central Chennai. Those coming from the direction of Tirupati can take National Highway 4, while drivers heading in from Pondicherry can follow the East Coast Road.

The Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus is one of the largest in Asia. It is served by seven state-owned bus corporations so you can always find easy connections to Chennai from cities such as Bangalore and Hyderabad. Local buses can be taken to any part of the city and there are also taxis and auto-rickshaws to rent near Koyambedu.

Airports near Chennai

Airlines serving chennai, where to stay in chennai.

From the affordable to the opulent, you'll find hotels in Chennai for every occasion. Hotels such as the Lemon Tree Hotel, Ramada Chennai Egmore, or the Comfort Inn Marina Towers are great for family vacations while Le Royal Meridien, Courtyard Chennai, and the Accord Metropolitan are good luxury options.

Popular Neighborhoods in Chennai

Anna Nagar - as well as being a popular shopping district, Anna Nagar is one of the city's prime residential areas. Notable landmarks include the Anna Nagar Tower, which was built for the World Trade Fair in 1968.

George Town - one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, George Town is in the north of Chennai. The historical area is close to Fort St. George, and is also known as Parry's Corner and Muthialpet.

Egmore - this a central district that is known for its hotels and tourist attractions like the Government Museum Chennai. It lies to the north of the Coovum River and is the city's transportation hub.

Where to stay in popular areas of Chennai

Most booked hotels in chennai, how to get around chennai, public transportation.

The city has an extensive public transportation system of buses, overland trains, and a new subway. Buses, operated by Metropolitan Transport Corporation, can be crowded at busy times but they're a cheap and convenient way to get around the city. They cover over 622 routes each day and tourists can purchase daily or weekly passes for ₹50 or ₹300.

Pre-paid taxis and minicabs can be found near all major tourist attractions and a five-mile journey typically costs ₹157 during the week. Auto-rickshaws are a cheaper alternative but be sure to check that the meter is working before you board. Fares start at ₹24 for the first 1.1 miles and then ₹12 for each additional 0.62 miles.

Driving in Chennai can be difficult for visitors who don't understand the complex rules for using the city's busy roads. If you would like to rent a car, you can do so at the airport or in the city (companies include Spice Car Rental and Chennai car Travels) for ₹499 per day, but it's well worth considering a local driver. Rates are ₹250 for a four-hour shift.

The Cost of Living in Chennai

Shopping streets.

There are lots of malls to choose from in Chennai. Visit Express Avenue in Royapettah High Road for brands like Hamley's, Global Desi, the Body Shop, and Esprit, or pick up the latest in menswear at Chennai Citi Center in Radhakrishnan Salai. If you prefer a more authentic approach try Pondy Bazaar in Thyagaraya Nagar (T-Nagar) for leather accessories, footwear, and cotton clothing or Ranganathan Street and South Usman Road in Panagal Park for jewelry and fine silk saris.

Groceries and Other

More Supermarket, Grace Supermarket, and Amma Nanna Supermarket Chennai are ideal for food and basics. You'll pay ₹63 for a dozen large eggs and ₹46 for a quart of whole milk.

For Outbound Tours: (Indian nationals visiting outside India)

For Domestic Tours: (Indian nationals visiting within India)

Chennai Tourism | How to Plan a Trip to Chennai

P opularly known as the "Gateway of South India", Chennai is noted for its beaches, medical tourism, bird watching sites, Fort St. George and religious destinations like St. Mary's Church, Kapaleshwar Temple and the Big Mosque.

• Average Climate: 18°C - 35°C
• Best Time to Visit: November - March

Chennai Travel Guide

A city with modern, commercial, and historical significance, Chennai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Blessed with picturesque locales and a history that dates back to times immemorial, Chennai once a tiny fishing village has today become one the most important cities in the world. It is among the four metropolitan cities of India and is one of the most beautiful destinations to head to if you are planning a tour to Tamil Nadu.

On your visit to Chennai, explore its buzzing streets, heritage temples, shopping arcades, and striking beaches. Chennai is also home to thriving technology, which makes it one of the biggest IT parks on the Asian continent. With Puducherry and Mahabalipuram in proximity, Chennai is an important cultural hub of India. So, if you want to enjoy the distinct flavors, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture, plan a visit to this destination in South India.

Whether you are looking for spiritual bliss, a party scene, or thrilling adventure activities, Chennai has everything in store for all kinds of travelers. There are a lot of things to do in Chennai other than unwinding at its pristine beaches and visiting the ancient temples. Chennai invites you to indulge in various activities and have the time of your life. But before you pack your bags and book a flight/train ticket, there are some things you must know about Chennai. We have curated a Chennai Travel Guide to help you plan your tour conveniently.

Why visit Chennai?

From beaches to temples, forts to museums, markets to art-hubs, Chennai has plenty of things to keep you entertained. The seafood, the wildlife, and the Dravidian-style architecture are some of the important things that make Chennai a must-visit. Also, the sunsets at Marina Beach are truly mesmerizing! Chennai has the longest sea beach in Asia, which is another great reason to take your loved ones to this South Indian destination.

How to reach Chennai 

Chennai is well-connected to all major Indian cities by air. Land at Chennai International Airport, which plies several domestic and international flights regularly. If traveling to Chennai by train, then get off at the Chennai Central Junction. It is well-linked with various local and express trains throughout India. Chennai is also well-connected by road via several national as well as state highways and links Chennai with many prominent cities in India. You can also choose to plan a road trip to Chennai from Kolkata via NH 16, from Bengaluru via NH 48, and from Trivandrum via NH 38. Read more here.

How to get around Chennai 

With the availability of AC/NON-AC local buses, traveling around Chennai is quite affordable and convenient. Cabs services like Ola Cabs, Meru Cabs, Uber, and local taxis can also be hired. Auto-rickshaws, car rentals, and Chennai Metro are some other options to move around the city.

Best time to visit Chennai 

Chennai, being a popular tourist attraction, lures tourists all around the year. However, the best time to visit Chennai is during the winters i.e. November to February as the weather is pleasant and is perfect to indulge in various activities and sightseeing tours. You might experience sudden rainfall even during winters. There are a lot of festivals in Chennai that are celebrated during winters, so be a part of as many as you can. Summers are extremely hot and humid in Chennai with temperatures reaching as high as 45 °C. However, with rain showers, the temperature goes down eventually allowing you to enjoy the weather. Monsoon brings heavy rainfall and strong winds, therefore, it is advised to carry an umbrella and raincoat to avoid getting soaked. To know more click here.

Places to visit in Chennai 

From old to contemporary, and from nature to architecture, Chennai has a lot of beautiful and striking places to see. Marina Beach is a popular beach that is perfect to get some fresh air and enjoy the soothing winds. Then there are exquisitely carved temples of Kapaleeshwar and Sri Parthasarathy. Their magnificence and eye-catching architecture are something you cannot miss on your Chennai travel. Fort of British Rule, Royapuram fishing harbor, Guindy National Park, Government Museum, and Edward Elliot’s Beach are some other attractions in Chennai. Know more here.

Things to do in Chennai 

• A major tourist destination in India, Chennai offers abundant activities and things to do. Here are some of the things you can indulge-in on your Chennai trip.
• Unwind at the largest beach in India, Marina Beach.
• Savor South Indian delicacies.
• Enjoy the ocean views at Thalankuppam Pier.
• Admire the architecture of Kapeeleshwar Temple.
• Explore the fishing market at Royapuram Fishing Harbour.
• Visit Fort St. George.
• Enjoy fishing at Barracuda Bay.
• Read at Anna Centenary Library.
• Visit San Thome Cathedral .

How many days are enough to visit Chennai?

5 days are enough to visit Chennai.

Average Chennai Trip Cost

The average cost of traveling to Chennai will be I NR 17,000 to INR 24,000 per person.

*Prices are subject to change.

Accommodation in Chennai 

Chennai has a lot of accommodations options to choose from. From luxury hotels to budget stays, honeymoon special to kid-friendly ones, you can select whichever type of hotel you prefer. Some major hotels in Chennai are ITC Grand Chola, Green Park Chennai, The Accord Metropolitan, WelcomHotel Chennai, and Hilton Chennai.

Where to eat in Chennai 

Chennai is no doubt a foodies hub and offers a wide range of delicacies. Eden, Seena Bhai 1977 Dosa Centre, Dindigul Thalappakatti, Southern Spice, and Nair Mess are some of the famous restaurants in Chennai. Here, you can indulge in culinary delights like lasagna, podi idli, uthappam, biryani, kori ghee roast, and Vanjaram fish fry.

Shopping in Chennai

Chennai’s shopping culture is known to everyone. It is quite a heartwarming experience as you not only get good quality products but there are quite a number of shopping markets that sell stuff at good rates. T.Nagar (saris, gold jewelry), Pondy Bazaar (clothes, footwear), Sowcarpet (suits and lehengas), Ritchie Street (electronics), Georgetown (saris), and Isha Life (handmade and organic products) are some of the most popular shopping markets in Chennai .

Useful Tips for Chennai Trip

• Respect the local culture and be humble to the locals.
• Do not wear revealing clothes on your visit to a temple or a mosque.
• If you visit in summer, carry sunscreen with you to avoid burning your skin.
• Keep yourself hydrated and carry a water bottle with you wherever you go.

Things To Do in Chennai

Best time to visit, how to reach, weather in chennai, historical monuments.

• Fairs and Festivals in Tamil Nadu

Chennai Tour Packages

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Other Cities of Tamil Nadu

• Mahabalipuram
• Kanyakumari
• Kancheepuram
• Krishnagiri
• Puddukottai
• Tirunelveli
• Thoothukudi
• Virudhunagar
• Tiruvannamalai

FAQs about the Chennai Travel Guide

Ans: Chennai is a Metropolitan city located in South of India on eastern coastal belt. It is capital of Tamil Nadu state of India.

Ans: Chennai is a very easily accessible by Air, Road and Railway.

By Air: Chennai has international airport, known as Chennai International Airport (MAA), which connects to many other countries plus offers very good connections from other Indian city airports. very good connections from other Indian city airports.

By Rail: Chennai houses the Southern railway headquarter thus provide massive connectivity to other Indian cities. In Chennai there are 03 railway stations, the most central is Chennai Egmore& Chennai Central Station. Tambram station is in suburban area of Chennai. Many express trains include Shatabadi Express- super fast day trains operates to & fro Chennai.

By Road: Chennai offers well connected toad network, to other cities of India. The ones you can cover by road on a major touristic routes are Tirupati, Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Pondicherry, Velore etc.

Ans: Best places to visit in Chennai are Marina Beach, Government Museum, DakshinChitra Museum – a living history museum, Sri Parthasarathy Temple, Kapeeleshwar Temple, Royapuram fishing harbour, Santhome cathedral Basilica, Fort St. George, etc.

Ans: Chennai being a coastal city,Chennai remains hot and humid almost throughout the year. The ideal time to visit the city is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.

Ans: Like other metropolitan cities, you can do club hoping, as city offers you good number of clubs and bars. If you are looking to explore something away from bar crowds, you can visit marina Beach or Besant Nagar beach and enjoy a night stroll before retiring for the day.

Ans: Yes, from Chennai you can enjoy same day trip while stationed in Chennai to Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Vellore, Pondicherry, Tiruvannamalai etc.

Ans: Yes there are beaches in Chennai, Marina Beach – fit for strolls and street food, Elliot Beach – fit for sea bathing, Covelong Beach – now converted into a resort by Taj – namely Fisherman’s Cove Resort.

Ans: You should look for hotels in and around George Town in case you want to stay near to sightseeing places of Chennai. If you want to go for shopping, cinema, gaming arcades, night clubs etc, Thousand Lights is the area for you. If you are in a city only for a connection to flight, there are many good hotels for you near the airports.

Ans: If you are in Chennai on a weekday, you can choose to visit Kalakshetra – school of fine Arts. Situated on a 100 acres campus in southern Chennai in a distinctively simple style of architecture, is Kalakshetra Foundation, an important physical and artistic landmark of India. You can take a guide and non-guided tours of the campus at extra cost. You can enjoy a Bharatanatyamclassical dance experience, if you want to know more you can write to us.

Some of the most beautiful structures on Earth can be found in Chennai. In fact, this city is known for its temples with detailed accents throughout their designs. As a traveler, be sure to stop by the Ashtalakshmi Temple. The brilliant colors and deity-specific architecture make this landmark hard to miss along the Bay of Bengal.

Another must-see landmark is the Marundeeswarar Temple. Architecture fans will gravitate to its textbook designs while seasoned travelers might marvel at the overall beauty that the structure brings to the landscape.

Chennai is also home to several natural wonders. The beaches are perfect places to stop and enjoy the scenery. Both Breezy and Marina beaches are popular among visitors and locals alike. Get to the beach early in order to find a great spot for sunbathing, swimming or just reading a good book.

Branch out from the beach to find other natural destinations, including Kolli Hills and the Arignar Anna Zoological Park. Kolli Hills is a more remote area, whereas the park offers something for every nature lover.

Enjoy a visit to Chennai as you plan out your itinerary in India. Culture, adventure and enrichment are just a few of the aspects you might find inspiring.

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• Travel Guide
• Weird & Amazing

Chennai’s Most Haunted Spots You Need To See

Published: August 30, 2024

by Elita Berube

Chennai, a bustling city known for its rich culture and history, also has a spine-chilling side. If you love ghost stories and eerie places, you'll want to know about Chennai's most haunted spots . From abandoned houses to spooky cemeteries, these locations have tales that will send shivers down your spine. Imagine walking through a deserted street at night, hearing whispers or seeing shadows move. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just curious, these haunted spots offer a unique experience. Ready to get spooked? Let's dive into the mysterious and haunted side of Chennai.

Chennai's Most Haunted Spots You Need to See

Chennai, a bustling city with rich history and culture, has its share of spooky tales. If you enjoy a good scare, these haunted spots might just give you the chills. Let's explore some of the most eerie places in Chennai.

Abandoned De Monte Colony

This deserted neighborhood is infamous for its eerie atmosphere and ghostly sightings. Once a thriving area, it now stands as a ghost town.

• De Monte House : The main attraction, this old mansion is said to be haunted by the spirit of John De Monte, who roams the halls at night.

The Ghostly Banyan Tree at Madras Christian College

Madras Christian College, one of the oldest educational institutions in India , has its own share of ghost stories. The most famous one revolves around a banyan tree on campus.

• Banyan Tree : Students and staff have reported seeing apparitions and hearing strange noises near this tree, especially after dark.

The Sinister Blue Cross Road

Blue Cross Road, located in the heart of Chennai, is another spot known for paranormal activities. This road is notorious for its spooky vibes and unexplained occurrences.

• Haunted Stretch : Many have claimed to see ghostly figures and hear eerie sounds while driving down this road at night.

The Mysterious Besant Avenue Road

Besant Avenue Road, a seemingly normal street during the day, transforms into a spine-chilling place after sunset. Locals often avoid this road at night due to its haunted reputation.

• Phantom Sightings : Numerous reports of ghostly apparitions and sudden temperature drops make this road a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts.

The Cursed Broken Bridge

The Broken Bridge, located near the Adyar River, is a popular spot for ghost hunters. This incomplete structure has a dark history and is believed to be cursed.

• Ghostly Encounters : Visitors have reported seeing shadowy figures and hearing whispers, especially during the late hours.

The Haunted House on St. Thomas Mount

St. Thomas Mount, a historic hill in Chennai, is home to a haunted house that has been the subject of many ghost stories.

• Old House : This abandoned house is said to be haunted by the spirits of its former residents, who met tragic ends.

The Spooky Valmiki Nagar

Valmiki Nagar, a residential area in Chennai, has its own haunted spot that sends shivers down the spine of anyone who dares to visit.

• Haunted Villa : This old villa is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who roams the premises at night.

The Eerie Anna Flyover

Anna Flyover, a busy overpass in Chennai, has a dark side that many are unaware of. This flyover is said to be haunted by restless spirits.

• Ghostly Figures : Drivers have reported seeing apparitions and experiencing sudden chills while crossing this flyover at night.

The Haunted Beach at Thiruvanmiyur

Thiruvanmiyur Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists, has a haunted stretch that is best avoided after dark.

• Ghostly Presence : Visitors have claimed to see ghostly figures and hear strange noises near this part of the beach.

The Spooky Fort St. George

Fort St. George, a historic fort in Chennai, has its own share of ghost stories. This ancient structure is believed to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers.

• Haunted Barracks : The old barracks are said to be haunted by the ghosts of soldiers who died in battle, with many reporting eerie sounds and sightings.

Embrace the Thrill of Chennai's Haunted Spots

Chennai's haunted spots offer a unique blend of history and mystery. From the eerie tales of De Monte Colony to the chilling vibes of Blue Cross Road , each location has its own spine-tingling story. Exploring these places can be both thrilling and educational, giving you a deeper understanding of the city's past. Whether you're a believer in the supernatural or just curious, visiting these haunted sites can be an unforgettable experience. Remember to respect the local customs and the people who live near these areas. Always stay safe and maybe bring a friend along for the adventure. Chennai's haunted spots are waiting for you to uncover their secrets. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a spooky journey through the city's most mysterious locations.

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