Chennai Travel Guide

Chennai is Tamil Nadu's coastal capital, known for major temples, classical music and dance, long urban beaches, colonial-era institutions, automobile and technology industries and a deeply rooted Tamil food culture.

Chennai stretches along the Bay of Bengal on low, flat coastal terrain. George Town, Mylapore, the central business districts, the airport–Guindy corridor and the southern OMR technology belt require separate daily plans.

Choose accommodation near the main purpose of your Chennai trip and group each day by area. This guide covers attractions, neighbourhoods, weather, transport, food and practical planning without relying on schedules or prices that quickly become outdated.

Chennai rewards travellers who combine its headline sights with local neighbourhoods and food.

• Landmarks: Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St George, Government Museum Chennai, San Thome Basilica, Elliot's Beach.
• Food: Try idli, dosa, pongal, vada, filter coffee, Tamil vegetarian meals, kothu parotta, Chettinad dishes, seafood and sweets, while confirming spice, meat and allergen content.
• Culture: The Margazhi music and dance season, Pongal, Tamil New Year, Navaratri golu, Deepavali and temple festivals create rich cultural experiences and heavier demand.
• Practical travel: select a stay close to the day's main area to reduce road time.