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Tuktuk speeding through Chennai
Tuktuk speeding through Chennai - Photo by Roman Fox

Exploring the Beauty of Chennai: A Traveler's Guide to

About Chennai, India

Chennai, India is a vibrant coastal city in the south of the country. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and incredible cuisine, Chennai is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India. Discover all that this cultural hub has to offer on your next adventure.

Chennai, also known as Madras, is the capital city of Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, Chennai is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Chennai is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. This ancient temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, is known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings. Visitors can explore the temple's many shrines, admire the colorful frescoes, and witness the daily rituals and ceremonies.

Another must-see attraction in Chennai is the Fort St. George. This impressive fort was built by the British East India Company in the 17th century and served as the company's headquarters in South India. Today, visitors can explore the fort's many museums and galleries, which showcase the history and culture of Chennai and Tamil Nadu.

Chennai is also famous for its beaches, particularly the Marina Beach. This beautiful stretch of coastline, which extends for over 13 kilometers, is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach, enjoy some delicious street food, or watch the local fishermen at work.

For those interested in history and culture, the Government Museum is a must-visit destination in Chennai. This museum, which was established in 1851, houses an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and objects from Tamil Nadu and beyond. Visitors can explore the many galleries, which include exhibits on archaeology, anthropology, and natural history.

Finally, no trip to Chennai would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Chennai is famous for its delicious South Indian cuisine, which includes dishes such as dosa, idli, and sambar. Visitors can explore the many restaurants and street food stalls in the city to sample these delicious dishes and more.

So if you're looking for a destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty, look no further than Chennai, India.

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Popular Stays in Chennai, India

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Chennai, India

General view
Business hotels

Raintree St. Mary

The Raintree St. Mary is a marvellous city hotel which enjoy a fantastic situation very close to the business, shopping and leisure areas of the city. Chennai Airport is 13.2 km away and Chennai Railway Station is 9.3 km from the hotel. This luxurious business hotel features contemporary guest rooms and suites fitted with the most up-to-date amenities. It is a stunning blend of comfort, style and high quality service ideal for business and corporate travellers.
General view
Business hotels

Residency Towers

This 4 star hotel is located in the city centre of Chennai and was established in 2003. The Hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre/gym. All 174 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe and air conditioning.
General view
Business hotels

The Accord Metropolitan, Chennai

The hotel is located in the heart of the city, just 13 km from Chennai Airport, 10 km from the central railway station and 10 km from the local bus station. It is set in a serene arboreal locale in the heart of the commercial district, with entertainment and shopping avenues in close proximity. Superior business facilities and devoted attention to all needs make this city hotel a truly one of its kind business hotel. The grand, yet peaceful ambience of the hotel is accentuated by imposing stairways, Italian marble, and intricate gold leaf work. Zodiac, the lounge bar, offers an extensive choice of branded and mixed drinks. There are 162 rooms in total spread over 12 floors. It is air-conditioned and has a lobby with 24-hour reception, currency exchange facility, lift access, café, hairdresser's salon, a number of restaurants, conference facilities and Internet access (subject to fees), as well as room and laundry services (both subject to fees). Parking facilities are available to guests arriving by car. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms, including a presidential suite, 3 studio apartments and 6 executive suites. They are fitted with electronic door locks, an electronic safe, dual telephone lines (with international direct dial facility), personalised voice mail facility, hi-speed broadband Internet access, and a modern en suite bathroom. The hotel also offers a choice of pillows: anti-snore, buckwheat, bolster or foam. A hairdryer, satellite/cable TV, minibar, mini-fridge, tea/coffee making facilities and centrally-regulated air conditioning also feature. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, massage service and gym. The hotel has several options when it comes to meals. Seasons, an all-day dining restaurant, offers buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner; Kebabs & Rotis serves traditional and authentic cuisines from across India; Pergola, the open-air restaurant, offers a relaxed, casual and friendly dining ambience.
Lobby
Business hotels

Park Plaza Chennai Omr

Park Plaza Chennai OMR is located in the heart of Chennai, on the Old Mahabalipuram Road. It is conveniently situated 18 km from the central railway station of Chennai, 20 km from the local bus station, and 17 km from Chennai Airport. It is a luxurious home to the aesthetic cultural heritage, recreated with state-of-art architecture inculcating contemporary modishness. All rooms are well appointed and decorated in a contemporary style. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a gym. There is also a poolside snack bar. For an additional fee, guests may use the health center, which includes a sauna and steam room, as well as massage and spa facilities. The hotel offers splendid restaurants which serve Indian and exotic cuisines. There is a 24-hour coffee shop, and the Oasis Multi-cuisine restaurant specializes in all cuisines. Come stay with us and experience the real Chennai ambiance.
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Business hotels

Ambassador Pallava Chennai

This hotel is located in the heart of Chennai, close to the business district and the commercial and shopping centres. It is situated just a 10-minute drive from the railway station, 4.5 km from Marina Beach and 25 minutes from Chennai International Airport. This city hotel comprises a total of 100 rooms, and facilities on offer to guests include a coffee shop, bar, restaurant and conference facilities. The hotel offers comfortable guest rooms and suites which are neatly maintained and come equipped with a host of modern amenities. All come with a TV, a minibar and air conditioning. The hotel features a health club with facilities such as gym, a massage parlour, a steam room, a sauna and a hot tub. Other leisure facilities include a squash court and a billiards room. The hotel restaurant serves Indian, continental and Chinese cuisine. And the bar offers guests alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, cocktails and mocktails.
Bar
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Radisson Blu Hotel Grt Chennai

This 5 star hotel is located close to the airport of Chennai. It is 12.0 Km from the Museum. The Hotel has a coffee shop, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre/gym. All 101 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe, trouser press, ironing set and air conditioning.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Trident, Chennai

Trident Chennai is located just 3 kilimetres away from Chennai airport and 12 kilometres from the railway station. The hotel is also located near to the new business districts of the city of Oragadam; Mahindra World City; Maraimalai Nagar and Guindy. It is only a 10 minute drive from the Chennai Trade Centre.An oasis of warmth and luxury environs Trident Chennai is amongst the best hotels in Chennai. The hotel welcomes you with its elegant low-rise design spread over five lush acres of verdant gardens. The 167 rooms and suites; tastefully appointed in muted and earthy tones combined with handcrafted furniture and convenient amenities are designed to make you feel at home during your stay with us. Guests can also enjoy access to high speed internet for up to 4 devices with our compliments.
General view

Savera, Chennai

This city hotel is around 2 km from the city centre and close to the Marina Beach. It is approximately 5 km from a bus stop and the main railway station, which guests can reach easily in a few minutes. Chennai Madras International (Meenambakkam) Airport is only 11 km from the eco hotel. The hotel offers a total of 235 rooms and facilities available to guests include a hotel safe, coffee shop and conference facilities. The hotel offers modern facilities and services with elegant and tastefully furnished guest rooms, which feature essential amenities to ensure guests a pleasurable stay. In-room amenities include an en suite bathroom, TV, radio, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities, an ironing set and air conditioning. During their leisure time, guests can enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gym, ensuring that they can maintain their fitness regime. They may also relax in the sauna or take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool. Guests can dine at the on-site multi-cuisine restaurant that serves a variety of delicious Indian, Chinese and continental cuisine. After a tiring day, guests can also sip their favourite drink in the cosy bar.

Things to do in Chennai, India

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Chennai, India

Kanchipuram temples
Digital Voucher720 minutes

Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide

In this day tour from Chennai, we will visit the twin wonders of Pallava architecture, Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. We will cover the magnificent temples of Ekambareswar & Kailashnath in Kanchipuram. After that we visit the ancient sea port of Mahabalipuram and visit the legendary rock cut structures lie Arjuna's penance, Five Rathas and the iconic Shore temple which served literally as the beacon for sea farers from the 8th century onwards. This is a fully guided tour with pick up and drop, private car, full time guide, lunch and all entrance charges as well.
Over The Planet
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Private Tour of Mahabalipuram from Chennai by car with guide and lunch

This private tour takes you to Mahabalipuram famous for its rock cut temples dating back to the 7th century along a lovely sea shore. We will spend the day exploring this World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram which used to serve as a sea port in ancient times. The highlights include masterpieces like the Five Chariots which are rock cut monolith temples, Arjuna's Penance the giant open air rock relief, the gravity defying Krishna's butterball and the Shore temple which is the last remaining of the 7 Pagodas mentioned by Marco Polo. This package includes pick and drop, private car, lunch, and a professional guide.
Private Morning Market Tour in Chennai
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Private Morning Market Tour in Chennai

Visit the largest perishable goods market of Asia on this three-hour tour in Chennai. Koyambedu market is the biggest fruits and vegetables market in Asia, where visitors can find both local and imported fruits and vegetables. For a city that does not have any nightlife, this market stands in stark contrast by operating 24 hours a day. Take a tour of this sprawling market and discover the local flavors of Chennai. Highlights • Visit to Koyambedu market, Asia’s largest market for perishable produce • 3 000 fruits and vegetables shops • An entire block of flower shops
Over The Planet
Digital Voucher660 minutes

Wild life tour in Chennai with guide and private car

Wildlife Trail in Chennai is a day trip in Chennai organized in a private vehicle. The highlights include the famed Madras Crocodile Bank, Guindy National Park , Snake Park and Arignar Anna Zoo at Vandalur. This is an all-inclusive trip where we take care of transport,  lunch, activities and the services of a full-time tour guide.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Chennai
Digital Voucher360 minutes

Private Tour: Chennai Sightseeing Including Fort St George and Government Museum

On this private sightseeing tour of Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, discover the city’s architectural diversity with visits to popular landmarks including Fort St George, the Government Museum, the Madras High Court and the Ripon Building. As you explore this bustling metropolis and cultural hub, your private guide will teach you about the fusion of traditional Dravidian (South Indian) styles of architecture with European colonial influences. You’ll also discover Chennai's religious diversity while exploring San Thome Cathedral and Kapaleeshwar Temple, and soak in the vibrant beauty of the city with a stroll through a flower market.
Kanchipuram Temple
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Day trip to Kanchipuram from Chennai

In this day tour from Chennai, you will meet the legendary Kanchipuram Silk Saree weavers. On offer is a unique experience of the fine art of making Silk Sarees. We also visit Ekambareswar & Kailashnath temples to appreciate the sculptures of the magnificent Pallava style architecture.
Agra Fort, Agra
Digital Voucher1080 minutes

1-Day Trip to Taj Mahal and Agra from Chennai with Both side Commercial Flight

Pickup at 4am from Hotel or anywhere in Chennai and drop at Chennai Airport Fly to Delhi. Arrive in Delhi Airport and drive to Agra 3 hours by expressway. Reach Agra and visit Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and take a Lunch break. If time permit some shopping in Agra. After Agra Sightseeing drive back to Delhi and drop at Airport Fly to Chennai. Arrive in Chennai airport and drop at your Hotel or anywhere in Chennai
Over The Planet
Digital Voucher840 minutes

French Toast - A Classic Moto Tour To Pondicherry

Discover East Coast with the perfect blend of freedom and guidance. Embark on our self-guided city sightseeing tour and experience the joy of exploring at your own pace while benefiting from expert recommendations. Navigate through the liveliest and awe-inspiring spots in from Chennai to Pondicherry with our pre-loaded routes as your trusted guide. Discover hidden gems, trendy local hotspots, and other intriguing destinations while receiving expert suggestions for an unforgettable exploration.

Why People Love Chennai, India

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Chennai, India

M
michaeldR8831RC
5
Sep 2022
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Both gentlemen were impressive and exceeded our expectations for the whole day experience. Ganesh was a wonderful driver and Ramesh was a wonderful guide. They both spoke excellent English and were great hosts. Our tour involved quite a bit of driving, but included far more sites than we expec...
S
SK_trin
5
Sep 2022
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Ganesh took me and a couple of my colleagues to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram today. For Kanchipuram, Ganesh himself doubled as the tour guide, and we had a person named Ramesh as the tour guide for Mahabalipuram. All of us enjoyed the drive, the camaraderie, elaborate explanation of the history...
O
OSUPauly
5
Sep 2022
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Ganesh and Ramesh were extremely friendly and helpful. Their English was great. The tour was very informative. Be prepared to walk without shoes, or bring sandals you do not mind taking off.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Chennai

What are some must-visit attractions in Chennai?

Chennai, also known as the Gateway to South India, has a rich cultural heritage and there are many attractions to visit. Some of the must-visit attractions in Chennai include the Kapaleeshwar Temple, Fort St. George, the Government Museum, and the Marina Beach. The Kapaleeshwar Temple is a 7th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its stunning architecture. Fort St. George is a historic fort built in 1644 and now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. The Government Museum is renowned for its collection of ancient artifacts and art. Finally, the Marina Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Chennai?

Chennai offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors. You can rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace, or take a stroll in the beautiful parks such as the Guindy National Park, Semmozhi Poonga, and the Theosophical Society. For adventure enthusiasts, there are several water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking available at the Covelong Beach. If you're interested in bird watching, you can head to the Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest, which is home to over 120 species of birds.

What are the best places to shop in Chennai?

Chennai is known for its traditional art and handicrafts. Some of the best places to shop for traditional items include T Nagar, Pondy Bazaar, and George Town. These areas have a wide range of shops selling everything from clothes to jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs. If you're looking for high-end shopping, Phoenix Market City and Express Avenue are two of the most popular malls in Chennai.

What are some local dishes to try in Chennai?

Chennai is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include dosa, idli, vada, sambar, and rasam. Seafood is also popular in Chennai, and you should definitely try the fish curry and prawn fry. For dessert, try the traditional South Indian sweet, payasam.

What are some family-friendly activities in Chennai?

Chennai has several family-friendly activities that you can enjoy with your kids. Some of the popular attractions include the Birla Planetarium, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, and the VGP Universal Kingdom amusement park. The Birla Planetarium is a great place to learn about astronomy and space exploration. The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is home to over 1,500 species of animals and is a great place for kids to learn about wildlife. Finally, the VGP Universal Kingdom amusement park has a range of rides and attractions that are sure to keep your kids entertained.

What are some cultural experiences to have in Chennai?

Chennai has a rich cultural heritage and there are many experiences that you can have to immerse yourself in the local culture. You can attend a classical dance performance at the Kalakshetra Foundation, which is renowned for promoting traditional art forms such as Bharatanatyam. You can also visit the Dakshinachitra Museum, which showcases the traditional art and architecture of South India. Finally, you can participate in a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional South Indian dishes.

What is the best time to visit Chennai?

The best time to visit Chennai is during the winter months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and it's a great time to explore the city. The temperature ranges from 19C to 28C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

What are some budget-friendly accommodation options in Chennai?

Chennai has a range of budget-friendly accommodation options that you can choose from. Some of the popular options include Backpackers Inn, Zostel Chennai, and Hanu Reddy Residences. These options offer comfortable accommodation at affordable prices.

What are some luxury accommodation options in Chennai?

Chennai has several luxury accommodation options for visitors. Some of the popular options include the Taj Coromandel, the ITC Grand Chola, and the Park Hyatt Chennai. These options offer world-class amenities and services to make your stay comfortable and luxurious.

What are some day-trips from Chennai?

Chennai is surrounded by several interesting destinations that you can explore on a day-trip. Some of the popular day-trips include Mahabalipuram, which is known for its stunning rock-cut temples and UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Pondicherry, which is a former French colony, is another popular day-trip destination, and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene beaches. Finally, you can visit Kanchipuram, which is known for its beautiful silk sarees and ancient temples.