2025 Chennai Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

1. Chennai, India, is the 6th most populous city and the 4th largest metropolitan area in India, and the 36th largest metropolitan area in the world. Known as the "Detroit of South Asia," its economy is primarily based on the strength of its automotive, IT, and healthcare industries. It is India's second-largest exporter of software, IT, and IT-enabled services. 2. Marina Beach is a 12 km long urban beach along the coastline of Chennai, India. Unlike the rocky Juhu Beach in Mumbai on India's west coast, the beach is primarily sandy, and several beaches are longer than it, despite many locals claiming it to be the longest (or second longest) beach in the world. These include Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, Ninety Mile Beach (Australia), and Ninety Mile Beach (New Zealand). 3. Marina Beach was once known for its pristine beauty, lively atmosphere, and rich ecosystem. However, since the mid-20th century, the beach and the water have become polluted. Plastic bags, human waste, and other pollutants (including animal dung) have rendered many parts of the beach unusable. 4. Old Chennai: Chennai is the fourth largest metropolis in India, with a history of nearly 2,000 years, and is known for its rich cultural heritage. 🔥📜 5. Convenient Transportation: The Chennai Metro, with two lines totaling 45 km in length, is expected to open this year, providing a convenient travel experience for nearly 9 million residents. 🚇👥 6. Comfortable Travel: Chennai has an average annual temperature of over 33°C. Dunham-Bush central air conditioning will provide passengers with a comfortable travel environment. 🌞❄ 7. Advanced Technology: Dunham-Bush has provided 60 WCFX-V water-cooled, fully enclosed, variable frequency screw chillers with new variable frequency technology for the Chennai Metro, ensuring that the units are always operating at optimal efficiency under rapidly changing passenger flow conditions, while also saving a significant amount on operating costs.

Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Chennai is from November to February when the temperature is comfortable and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Getting Around • Public Transportation: Chennai's MTC buses are affordable and cover almost every corner of the city, but they can get crowded during peak hours. • Subway: The Chennai Metro is an efficient option for traveling long distances, connecting all major locations, including the airport and commercial hubs. • Auto-rickshaws and Taxis: Hail an auto-rickshaw for short trips, but remember to bargain. For a comfortable journey, app-based taxis like Ola and Uber are the best options. • Rental Services: Car rental services are available if you prefer driving. For short trips and local exploration, rent a bicycle or scooter. Accommodation • Luxury Hotels: Experience luxury with world-class amenities and top-notch service. • Mid-Range Hotels: Enjoy comfort with cost-effective amenities. • Budget Hotels: Get a clean and comfortable room without breaking the bank. Attractions • Marina Beach: Stretching over 13 km, it's one of the world's longest urban beaches. Take a stroll, admire sand sculptures, and savor local snacks. • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. The intricate carvings on the gopuram make it a colorful work of art. • Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Spread across 602 hectares, this zoo houses numerous endangered species, making it ideal for families and wildlife enthusiasts. • Guindy National Park: Covering 2.70 square km, it's a haven for blackbucks, spotted deer, and various birds. The park also features a snake park and a children's play area. • DakshinaChitra Museum: This open-air museum showcases the cultural heritage of South India, featuring traditional houses, artifacts, and live performances. • MGR Museum: Named after former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor M.G. Ramachandran, this museum displays his photographs, memorabilia, and personal belongings. • St. Mary's Church: Located within Fort St. George, it's the oldest Anglican church in India, an architectural gem with its vaulted roof and stained-glass windows. • VGP Golden Beach: Part of an amusement park, it offers thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertainment shows, perfect for families and adventure seekers. • ISKCON Temple Chennai: A spiritual oasis dedicated to Lord Krishna, it's a must-visit for its beautiful architecture and serene environment. • Mylapore: The cultural hub of Chennai, it blends history, tradition, and modernity, featuring ancient temples and bustling markets. Food • Dosa and Idli: A classic South Indian breakfast, served with sambar and chutney. • Chettinad Cuisine: Experience the spicy flavors of Chicken Chettinad, Pepper Prawns, and Mutton Sukka. • Biryani: Chennai's flavorful biryani. • Filter Coffee: The iconic filter coffee, available in almost every corner cafe. Shopping • T Nagar: A shopper's paradise for silk sarees, jewelry, and traditional clothing. • Pondy Bazaar: Find affordable clothing, accessories, and household items. • Express Avenue Mall: One of Chennai's largest malls, featuring international and local brands. • Chennai Citi Centre Mall: Includes a food court and multiplex cinema. Festivals and Events • Pongal: Welcoming the harvest festival in January, celebrated with traditional rituals, music, dance, and feasts. • Chennai Music Season: Enjoy Carnatic music performances by world-renowned artists from December to January. • Madras Week: Celebrates Chennai's cultural heritage in August through city walks, exhibitions, and cultural programs. • Chennai Sangamam: Showcases folk arts, music, dance, and cuisine in January. Day Trips and Short Excursions • Mahabalipuram: Located 60 km from Chennai, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning rock-cut temples and sculptures. • Pondicherry: A three-hour drive from Chennai, this former French colony is known for its charming streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches. • Kanchipuram: About 75 km from Chennai, the City of Thousand Temples boasts ancient wonders.

The best hotel ever for us. There are many Leela hotels in India, but the Leela Palace in Chennai is the best hotel among them. The location is really comfortable to access most of the places in the city. You can use ricksha or uber cabs easily. The staff in the hotel is so professional and expert. Concierge service is useful to get used to the hotel quickly. 💰Average Price per Person: the price starts from 200 dollars. And it depends upon various options such as room type, breakfast or dinner, weekday or weekend. Tips : Sometimes they have good offers during particular period. Checking their website is required. If you use this hotel, you can go to the mall within 20 minutes and visit beaches within 10 minutes. The hotel has wonderful food for breakfast and dinner. Do not miss this great chance to experience delicacy. All room has bath-tube so the one who enjoys taking a bath can have beautiful time with scenery.#celebrateit #indiatrip #chennai #Leela

#asiatrip #india A trip to South India is a vibrant adventure filled with rich culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Spanning from Tamil Nadu to Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, this region offers an incredible mix of tradition and natural beauty. Begin your journey in Chennai, the cultural hub of Tamil Nadu. Visit the stunning Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an architectural marvel adorned with colorful carvings, before enjoying a traditional South Indian breakfast of idli, dosa, and filter coffee. From Chennai, head to Pondicherry, a coastal town that blends French colonial charm with Indian culture. Take a stroll along the Promenade Beach and explore the quaint streets of the French Quarter. Next, travel to Kerala, aptly named “God’s Own Country.” Cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey in a traditional houseboat, surrounded by lush greenery and palm-fringed waterways. Don’t miss the tea plantations of Munnar, where the rolling hills covered in emerald tea bushes provide a serene escape. Kerala’s Ayurvedic massages and spicy cuisine, including seafood curries and banana chips, add to the experience. In Karnataka, explore the vibrant city of Mysore, renowned for its majestic Mysore Palace and thriving silk industry. For a taste of nature, venture to Coorg, a tranquil hill station known for its coffee plantations and misty landscapes. Conclude your trip in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site where ancient ruins and rocky landscapes tell stories of a bygone empire. The sunsets over Virupaksha Temple are magical, leaving you in awe of South India’s timeless charm. South India offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural splendor. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, tranquil backwaters, or misty mountains, this region will captivate your heart and leave you craving more.

On the southeast coast of India, there is a city that dances to its own unique rhythm, a symphony of the ancient and the modern. That city is Chennai, a dazzling pearl on the Bay of Bengal. As you stroll through the streets of Chennai, you will be attracted by the colorful temples. The stone carvings of Mahabalipuram tell stories of a thousand years. The sunset at Marina Beach gently shines on the faces of every passerby, a romance unique to Chennai. In the early morning, when the first ray of sunlight penetrates the fog of Madanapalle Lake, the entire city seems to wake up from a dream to greet the new day. The food in Chennai is a treasure that cannot be missed in this city. From spicy curry to delicate coconut milk stew, every bite is an ultimate temptation to the taste buds. A cup of strong Indian milk tea is an indispensable sweetness in the daily life of the people of Chennai. Here, you can also feel the magic of Indian movies. Tamil songs echo in the streets and alleys. That is the pride of Chennai and a part of the city's culture. Chennai, with its passion and tolerance, allows every visitor to find their own story. Come to Chennai and let the charm of this city become an eternal memory in your heart. Let every look back see the most dazzling light on the southeast coastline.

Nestled in the heart of Chennai on Binny Rd, Anna Salai, the Taj Connemara beckons with its colonial elegance and modern comforts. 🏛️✨ Step into a world where the past meets the present; this heritage hotel boasts lush gardens 🌿 and a poolside breakfast experience that's simply unmatched. 🍳🏊‍♀️ With its prime location, a shopping spree is just a stroll away at EA mall, and the local bazaar vibes are right next door. Expect nothing less than top-notch service, where the staff treat you like royalty and the buffet spreads are a gourmand's delight. 🍽️👑 Despite a minor hiccup with the toilet flush, the luxury and satisfaction levels remain sky-high. 💎💖 Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, Taj Connemara ensures a stay that's worth every penny—where generosity is the norm, and every guest feels the premium touch. #Chennai #ChennaiHotel #ChennaiTravel

--- 📍 Radisson Blu Hotel GRT Chennai 531, Grand Southern Trunk Rd, Parangi Malai, Pazavanthangal, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600016, India Nestled in the heart of Chennai, the Radisson Blu Hotel GRT is more than just a place to crash! 🛏️ With its chic interiors, you'll feel like you've stepped into a style magazine. But it's not just about looks; the staff are real gems 💎 - always on hand to ensure your stay is smooth sailing. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, you'll find a welcoming retreat that's both swanky and serene. 🌟 # Chennai # ChennaiHotel # ChennaiTravel

--- 🏨 Nestled in the bustling heart of Chennai at 124, 1, 100 Feet Rd, Poomagal Nagar, Guindy, the Hilton Chennai beams as a beacon of comfort and luxury. Here's why this gem stands out: 🛏️ First off, the rooms are a traveler's retreat—think pristine, plush, and perfect for that 'sleep-in-Sunday' vibe. With top-notch cleanliness and amenities, you're in for a lush stay! 🍛 Foodies, rejoice! The Hilton Chennai is a culinary hotspot, offering a smorgasbord of flavors. I hit the jackpot with a special Goa food evening—talk about a taste bud fiesta! 👌 Service with a smile is the cherry on top here. The staff goes the extra mile, ensuring your stay is as smooth as their famous mango lassi. So, if you're plotting a course to Chennai, the Hilton is your home-away-from-home pin on the map! # Chennai # ChennaiHotel # ChennaiTravel

Recently, I stayed in Chennai, a large city located in the south of India. It is a city where many Japanese companies have their bases. I stayed for just one night at the Luxury Collection Grand Chola, a luxury Marriott hotel that reigns as a five-star hotel in Chennai. The Luxury Collection Hotel is the highest-end hotel in the Marriott brand, but in Chennai I was able to make a reservation for less than 20,000 yen per night, which is an exceptional price. #India #Chennai #Marriott #Luxury Collection #Luxury Hotel #Luxury Hotel

If you are a beach person, most locals go to this beach when at chennai. I suggest that you visit during summer season during sunset as the sunset is pretty. Check out local drinks stalls and simple amusement games like mini flyer which kids usually sit and play. Address Marina Beach Chennai 376P+2JP, Marina Beach, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600005, India

விஸ்வநாதன் செட்டிநாடு உணவகம் Address: 6, PV Koil St, Slaterpuram, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004 India Atmosphere/Facilities: Although the name is a "hotel", it is actually a restaurant. Simple home facilities. feature: Probably because of the price and the fact that you can finish your rice and have unlimited refills! The salmon is very thin..😂 But it's so hard to have Chinese style stir-fried dishes or fried fish here. I searched for a long time but couldn't find a Chinese restaurant... ##banana leaf ##Unlimited rice Price per person: 200-500 Rating: ★★★

Address: Light house, NO.32, Kamarajar Salai, Kamarj Salai, Kailasapuram, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004 India Atmosphere/Facility: Small space, crowded. Features: Average price but you can have a lot of food Not bad, but for those who don't like spicy food, some water is needed. Biryani costs 210 rupees, and the portion is enough for two people. The most cost-effective rice dish is Biryani, which comes with an egg, a chicken drumstick, mayonnaise and onions, and comes with a dessert. When you check out, you will be given a few packets of fragrant stuff, which is said to eliminate mouth odor. But it really smells like a dehumidifier bag in the closet😂 Price per person: RS. 200-400 Rating: ★★★★ #SS HFC #Biryani #Cheap

#celebratewithtrip if you happen to be at Chennai and am looking for something to do, do check out this tiger cave. There is a variety of larger than life size sculptures that u can check out n take photos with

#celebratewithtrip if you happen to pass by or transit via Chennai airport, do check out it’s local unique sculptures for some nice photo shoots ^*

#bucketlistreboot #templeinindia #exploreindia If you are at Chennai and would like to visit a temple which locals go to, do consider the shore temple. It is a temple rich in heritage and would be something interesting to check out as it is something that embodies the Indian culture. address shore temple Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104, India

#bucketlistreboot #chilltime #uniquemerchandise #souvenirshopping #starbucksbytata If you are someone in India and miss the brands you are familiar with - check out Starbucks. Drinks here and food have same consistency as other markets so you can definitely chill out here if you miss a taste of home. Prices are also cheaper than back home so it’s another reason to chill here , where air conditioned cafes are found not as common in India. You will be able to find unique merchandise in the Starbucks in India, as these examples like cup which you do not find in markets like Malaysia and Singapore. Bring these back home to surprise your friends and family without having to worry about quality.

#bucketlistreboot #xyinin #chennaitravels Are you someone who love animals? Heard of zoos, but what about a crocodile farm that houses close to 20 different types of crocodiles? Would like to recommend you, especially if you have kids, to make a visit to the Crocodile bank located at Chennai, where they have different crocodiles houses, originally from different countries. We were fascinated purely by the types of crocodiles available in real life (both on dry land and wet waters) so check this out to better understand crocodiles in real life (and yet feel safe) you know you are in a protected environment. Definitely recommended for crocodile lovers and families with kids.

A memorial is planned at this place to pay homage to Jayalalitha. Several government officials and famous architects have already visited this place multiple times to propose the design and architecture for the proposed Jayalalatiha Memorial. The land at the proposed Jayalalitha Memorial is owned by The Public Works Department of Tamil Nadu.

Not many will think of going to Chennai, India for a holiday. Well, it has its side of beautiful of a thriving booming economy with its culture and arts. This could be seen on many buildings like the Leela Palace Chennai Seaside Mondern Palace Hotel which is located at Ayder Sea Face, Leela Palace Rd near the ever famous broken bridge where you can catch the sunrise, but getting there might be abit of a hassle due to the uneven road thru the fishing village. You can even head to the Marina Beach Walk and the chennai lighthouse located at the marina beach. From the lighthouse you will have an unobstructed view of the world's second longest beach. And from the tower you can also see the town of Mylapore. An admission ticket is required to go up to the light house which will take you up to the 10th floor via the elevator. Apart from the beach view, you can also head to the famous Santhome Cathedral Basilica where it was open in 1523, have a look at the architecture of the building as this is a beautiful church to watch. #passionpassport #india #chennai #beachlife #asia #exploreindia #incredibleindia

Getting There - india wedding Hotels Hulton Food & Restaurants - good Shopping - nice#thanksgiving

Thomas is believed to have travelled outside the Roman Empire to preach the Gospel, travelling as far as Tamilakam which are the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu in present-day India. San Thome Church, also known as St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Thomas is a Roman Catholic minor basilica in Santhome, in the city of Chennai. It was built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers, over the tomb of Saint Thomas. In 1893, it was rebuilt as a church with the status of a cathedral by the British. I was fortunate enough to have visited this place.

Had a chance to visit Trident Hotel in Chennai, India. The rooms were huge and the property is just very near the airport which makes it very convenient and accessible.

#awesomepic One of the longest beaches in the world, the Marina Beach is a major tourist attraction in Chennai and sees thousands of visitors on a daily basis. The beach was developed only after the construction of the Madras Harbor in 1881, when the British Governor of Madras commissioned the construction of a promenade near the shoreline. #beach #awesomepic

In Chennai, it is quite famous. Many local people will go to the beach. The beach is not as beautiful as it might be. It may overestimate India and the beach is dirty, but there are many local people swimming at the beach. The beaches of Chennai, the beaches of the real poor, they are entertaining by the sea, you can see horses, dogs, crows, cats, mice... The garbage piled everywhere, beyond your imagination

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

📅 Itinerary Day1: Pumpkin tales (brunch), zambazzar lassai and gulab jamun, Briyani ( mirchi, sukku bhai , Charminar) evening snack at sowcarpet, and dinner at BASK, soysoi Day2: Writers cafe (breakfast) , lunch - crescent , Arabian Briyani center , palm shore , brew room tea , dinner: CICLO, little Italy , desert at amadora

We have 20 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry and are one of the best travel agencies in South India, located in T Nagar and Saidapet, Chennai. We provide domestic and international tour packages, including Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Bali, Himachal, Kashmir, Sri Lanka, and more. We also offer customized holiday packages, hotel and resort bookings, luxury and budget travel, as well as adventure and leisure travel. #travel#couplestrip#beachlife#staycation#naturalwonders#seascapes#familytravel#poolhotel#resorts#citydaytours#afternoonteatime#localfood#buffets

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions marina beach 🚇 Transportation use uber 📷 Photo Spot marina beach 🍜 Local Cuisine must try biryani 🏠 Accommodation gulnaar inn 💡 Tips make sure you download uber for transportation, swiggy for food delivery and zepto if you want any item urgently it can arrive under 15 mins

Amazing food in Chennai,delicious,