Things To Do
in Chennai
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant coastal metropolis known for its rich Dravidian heritage, classical music, and bustling street life. The city blends colonial-era architecture with modern skyscrapers, offering a unique urban tapestry. Renowned for its pristine beaches like Marina and Elliot’s, Chennai also boasts serene temples, bustling markets, and cultural hubs.
Warm hospitality, spicy South Indian cuisine, and year-round festivals make it an unforgettable destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Settle into your hotel nestled close to the coastline and freshen up with a strong South Indian filter coffee. Take a leisurely stroll along Marina Beach, feeling the sand underfoot and watching the early fisherfolk haul in their catch. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of local vendors setting up their stalls as the sun climbs in the sky.
Head to Fort St. George and its museum to explore the colonial history and artifacts that trace British rule in Madras. Wander through the whitewashed buildings and admire the coats of arms and ancient weaponry on display. Pause at the fort canteen for a traditional south Indian lunch served on a banana leaf.
Return to Marina Beach for the famous sunset spectacle, where the sky blazes orange and local families gather for evening kite-flying. Sample piping-hot sundal and murukku from beachside vendors. End the night with a refreshing coconut water as gentle sea breezes lull you into the rhythm of the city.
Begin with a guided tour of St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica in Santhome, built over the apostle’s tomb. Admire the Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and serene chapel ambiance. Light a prayer candle and learn about the centuries-old Christian heritage in Chennai.
Walk over to Ripon Building and the High Court to marvel at their grand colonial facades and sprawling lawns. Stop for a south Indian thali at a nearby vegetarian restaurant, savoring crisp papadums and tangy sambar. Afterwards, explore nearby Panagal Park and chat with locals practicing yoga under shady trees.
Experience the elegance of a traditional Bharatanatyam performance at a cultural center in Mylapore. Witness graceful storytelling through intricate gestures and rhythmic footwork accompanied by live Carnatic music. Conclude with a stroll through the illuminated streets, stopping for filter coffee at a heritage café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2–3 |
| ☕Local filter coffee | $1 |
| 🚕Auto-rickshaw (5 km) | $1–2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $30–50 |
| 🎫City bus fare | $0.15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and classical arts scene
- Delicious South Indian cuisine and street food
- Beautiful urban beaches and promenades
- Affordable travel costs
- Heavy traffic congestion and pollution
- High heat and humidity for much of the year
- Monsoon rains can disrupt plans
- Limited late-night public transport
- "Vanakkam" - Hello
- "Nandri" - Thank you
- "Eppadi irukkīrgā?" - How are you?
- "Ullam ketkiren" - Excuse me
- "Sapida poren" - I want to eat
Places to Visit in Chennai
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture sweeping seaside vistas and colorful crowds at sunrise or sunset.
Frame towering gopurams, vivid sculptures, and devotional scenes in Mylapore.
Photograph colonial ramparts, the historic flagstaff, and tranquil St. Mary’s Church interior.
Shoot lush greenery, centuries-old banyan trees, and mirrored ponds in Adyar.
Document a laid-back vibe with palm-lined promenades, beach volleyball, and local families.
Food in Chennai
Chennai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice cakes and savory lentil donuts served with sambar and coconut chutney; best at Murugan Idli Shop or Ram’s.
Must-Try!
Crispy rice-and-lentil crepe filled with spiced potato masala; try it at Murugan Idli Stall or Vidyarthi Bhavan.
Fiery chicken curry from the Chettinad region; sample at Anjappar or Hotel Saravana Bhavan’s specialty outlets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Endless rows of carts selling sundal, murukku, and sweet jalebi against the backdrop of the sea.
A lively market near Egmore offering snacks like murukku, pickles, and biryani; perfect for adventurous foodies.
T. Nagar’s shopping artery where you can grab piping hot bondas, paniyaram, and egg dosa between saree shops.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use the traditional ‘Vanakkam’ with hands pressed together at chest level.
Remove shoes and cover shoulders/legs. Photography may be restricted inside shrines.
Give and receive items with your right hand as a sign of respect.
Avoid public displays of affection; modest dress is preferred in religious or rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Chennai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 5–10% at mid-range to upscale restaurants; rounding up fares or giving small change to rickshaw drivers is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash (INR) is king in markets and street stalls. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants. UPI apps (Google Pay, PhonePe) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures (20–30°C) and low humidity make this the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Intense heat (up to 40°C) and high humidity; plan early-morning outings, stay hydrated, and wear sun protection.
Moderate rains cool the air but can cause localized flooding; carry an umbrella and check weather forecasts before travel.
Warm with occasional showers; greenery blooms and water bodies are full, but expect occasional downpours.
Chennai at Night
Hiking in Chennai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
160 km NW of Chennai, offering waterfalls, nature trails, and panoramic viewpoints.
Approximately 350 km south, known for dense jungles, trekking routes, and the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls.
Short drives from city center with easy walking trails around marshes and woodlands.
Airports
How to reach Chennai by plane.
7 km south of the city center with extensive domestic and international connections.
Approximately 125 km NW, connecting to major Indian cities; reachable via bus or taxi in 3 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population speaking Tamil and preserving traditional customs.
People from Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and northern India working in construction, IT, and services.
Small but historic group known for distinct cuisine and cultural contributions.
Professionals in the IT, healthcare, and education sectors from Europe and North America.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Chennai Super Kings IPL team is a local obsession, and numerous grounds host competitive matches.
Played casually on Marina and Elliot’s beaches by locals and visitors alike.
Traditional contact sport featured in local tournaments and school competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chennai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
South Indian cuisine is inherently vegetarian-friendly with countless idli, dosa, uttapam, and thali options.
Opt for rice-based dishes like lemon rice and coconut-based gravies; confirm ghee-free preparations at local eateries.
Many dishes use rice and lentils instead of wheat; avoid wheat-based parathas and confirm ingredients in street snacks.