Things To Do
in Chennai
Chennai is a lively coastal capital of Tamil Nadu perched on the Bay of Bengal. It blends ancient temple architecture with a burgeoning modern economy, a thriving arts scene, and a distinctive South Indian culinary tradition. The city is known for its long sandy coastline, iconic Marina Beach, colonial-era landmarks, and a maze of bustling markets.
Visitors will experience a sensory-rich mix of history, cuisine, music, and warm Tamil hospitality.
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 | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1 liter) | $0.5-1 |
| 🍛Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short to mid distance) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and temple architecture
- Delicious and varied South Indian cuisine
- Coastal scenery and beaches with a vibrant street-food scene
- Affordability and English widely understood in urban areas
- Hot, humid climate and heavy summertime heat
- Heavy traffic and crowded markets at peak times
- Monsoon rains can disrupt travel plans
- Inconsistent infrastructure in some old neighborhoods
- "Vanakkam" - Hello
- "Nandri" - Thank you
- "Dayavu seyyunga" - Please
- "Tamil sollunga" - Please speak Tamil
- "Enakku Tamil romba konjam theriyum" - I know a little Tamil
- "Idhu epadi?" - How is this?
- "Vandi kedaikkuma?" - Can I get a ride?
Places to Visit in Chennai
Visit one of these nice places.
Ornate Dravidian architecture with ornate gopurams and vibrant temple life; best captured during morning rituals or golden hour.
Long shoreline with a lively promenade; sunrise and sunset yield dramatic silhouettes and human activity scenes.
Colonial-era fortress and museums with red-brick façades and views of the harbor; rich history for architectural photography.
Gothic-inspired basilica with tall spires and serene interiors; nice contrasts of light and stone.
Architectural buildings and galleries offering a mix of antiquities and decorative arts for documentary photography.
Historic residence and serene grounds, ideal for portraits and reflective shots around heritage spaces.
Green, forested backdrop close to the city; great for wildlife and nature photography.
Food in Chennai
Chennai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fermented rice-lentil crepe served with sambar and coconut chutney; best at local favorite spots like Murugan Idli Shop.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cakes served with a tangy sambar and coconut chutney; a staple breakfast item found across many eateries.
Spicy, aromatic chicken curry from the Chettinad region; great at dedicated Chettinad restaurants like Anjappar.
Savory or sweet rice and dal dish; commonly enjoyed for breakfast or festive meals, often served with chutney and sambar.
Strong, aromatic South Indian coffee served hot or with milk; a must-try at local cafes and traditional eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling lanes offering dosas, idlis, vadas, chat items, and regional snacks; best explored on foot in the cooler late afternoon.
Traditional market offering fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks; a window into everyday Tamil cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm nod or a short “Vanakkam” is welcomed; use English or Tamil in most urban settings.
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and follow temple-specific rules; photography is often restricted inside sanctums.
Dress modestly in religious sites and temples; shoulders and knees should be covered in many places.
Safety
Tipping in Chennai
Ensure a smooth experience
In most mid-range to upscale places, a service charge may be included; if not, a tip of 5-10% is customary for good service. Small tips are common in street stalls and informal eateries.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; digital wallets (PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay) are popular for quick payments; keep some cash for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with high humidity levels; plan outdoor activity for early mornings or late evenings; stay hydrated and seek shade, especially along the beaches.
Southwest and Northeast monsoons bring rain and elevated humidity; brief but sudden showers possible; carry a compact umbrella and waterproof footwear.
Milder and more comfortable, with average daytime temperatures in the cool-to-warm range; ideal for comfortable sightseeing and outdoor photography.
Chennai at Night
Hiking in Chennai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hill station about a 3-4 hour drive from Chennai offering ridge treks, viewpoints, and a cooler climate.
Rolling hills with trekking routes and panoramic vistas; suitable for day trips from Chennai with a long drive.
Airports
How to reach Chennai by plane.
Main international gateway to the city; well-connected domestically and internationally; easy access to city by road, taxi, or metro extension.
Another major airport within a few hours’ travel by road or rail; serves as an alternative gateway for some regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic with strong regional culture and language.
A mix of traditional industries and a growing tech sector.
Diverse neighborhoods with strong cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular spectator sport with local clubs and casual play in parks and beaches.
Growing club scene and public games in urban areas.
Widely played in clubs and community centers across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chennai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Chennai offers abundant vegetarian options. Look for thali thalis, dosas, idlis, and sambar-based dishes; clearly signal any spice level and avoid non-vegetarian dishes when needed.