Things To Do
in Perumbakkam

Early morning and late evening are best for reflections and birdlife photography; wetlands attract waders and local fishermen scenes.

A unique urban wetland offering dramatic marsh vistas, migratory birds in season and interesting landscape shots at sunrise or sunset.

Modern office towers, glass facades and evening lights provide urban landscape and street photography opportunities — especially during golden hour.

Temple architecture and bustling neighborhood markets offer cultural street photography — focus on rituals, architecture details and candid daily life scenes.

Steamed rice cakes served with sambar and chutney; available at almost every breakfast spot and ideal for an inexpensive, filling start to the day.

Must-Try!

Crisp crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter with spiced potato filling; try it at popular breakfast joints or small dosa houses along OMR.

Fragrant rice and spiced meat or vegetable dishes; local biryani shops and mid-range restaurants in Velachery and Sholinganallur do great versions.

Strong South Indian coffee brewed in a metal filter; ubiquitous in cafés and tea shops and a must-try daily fix.

Bustling neighborhood market selling fresh produce, spices, sweets and local snacks; try vadai, sundal and fresh fruit juices here.

Street vendors near IT parks serve quick eats like chaat, tiffin items, egg rolls and kebabs — good for a quick, affordable bite between meetings.

Use 'Vanakkam' as a respectful greeting; a slight nod or hands-joined gesture is appreciated, especially with older people.

Remove shoes before entering temples, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), and follow photography rules inside sacred spaces.

Conservative dress is recommended in public and religious sites; avoid loud public displays of affection and be mindful of elders.

Do not touch food offerings in temples and ask permission before photographing people during worship or rituals.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. In restaurants, leave 5–10% if service is not included; for taxis and auto-rickshaws rounding up the fare is common. Hotel staff and porters typically receive small tips (₹20–100 depending on service).

Cards and UPI mobile payments are widely accepted in shops and restaurants near IT hubs, but smaller street vendors and markets prefer cash. ATMs are readily available; notify your bank about travel to avoid card blocks.

A short drive away, this small hill offers a short climb with panoramic views over Chennai and a historic chapel — good for a quick, easy outing.

Easy nature walks in one of the few protected green spaces inside the city limits; expect short trails and wildlife sightings in a controlled environment.

About 2.5–3 hours’ drive for hill-station treks and trails; popular for weekend hikers seeking cooler temperatures and scenic walking routes.

Not strenuous hikes but excellent for birdwatching walks and coastal/wetland exploration — best visited in migratory season with an early start.

Vegetarian food is widely available; many dedicated vegetarian restaurants and thali places make it easy to eat well. Ask for 'no ghee' or 'no cream' if you need stricter control over ingredients.

Vegan options exist (dals, vegetable curries, sambhar, dosas without butter), but always specify no ghee or butter. Packaged vegan snacks are less common — check labels or ask staff.

Rice-based dishes (idli, dosa, steamed rice, curries) are naturally gluten-free; avoid wheat-based items like certain breads and some gravies that may use wheat flour as a thickener. Confirm preparation methods in restaurants.

Cross-contamination can occur in busy kitchens; clearly communicate allergies (nuts, dairy, gluten) and choose clean, well-rated establishments when possible.