Things to Do in Chennai

About Chennai

Where the Bay of Bengal kisses ancient shores and the scent of jasmine mingles with salt air, Chennai unfolds as Tamil Nadu's cultural heartbeat. This coastal metropolis pulses with an intoxicating rhythm—classical Carnatic melodies drift from temple courtyards while the gentle clatter of looms weaves stories in Kanchipuram silk. Here, centuries-old traditions dance gracefully alongside gleaming IT towers, and every street corner tells tales of Pallava kings and Portuguese traders. The city's soul reveals itself in the pre-dawn devotional songs at Kapaleeshwarar Temple, in the passionate debates over filter coffee versus instant, and in the warm Chennai drawl that welcomes strangers like family. Marina Beach stretches endlessly, offering solace to evening walkers while roadside vendors serve steaming idlis that taste of home. This is a city that doesn't merely exist—it lives, breathes, and embraces you with the warmth of a Tamil welcome, leaving you forever changed by its authentic, unhurried grace.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use prepaid auto-rickshaw counters at railway stations and airports to avoid fare disputes. Download the Chennai Metro app for cashless travel on the expanding metro network. For local buses, carry exact change (₹5-15) and look for route numbers painted in Tamil and English.

Money: ATMs are widespread, but carry cash for street vendors and local transport. Most restaurants accept cards, but small establishments prefer cash. Exchange money at authorized dealers or banks rather than hotels to get better rates, typically ₹80-85 per USD.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes before entering temples and homes. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially at religious sites. Avoid pointing feet toward people or deities. Use your right hand for eating and greeting. Learn basic Tamil phrases like 'Vanakkam' (hello) for warm local interactions.

Food Safety: Stick to busy local eateries with high turnover for authentic South Indian cuisine. Avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits from street vendors. Drink bottled or boiled water. Try iconic dishes like Chettinad chicken and filter coffee from established restaurants like Saravana Bhavan or Murugan Idli Shop.

When to Visit

Chennai's tropical climate demands strategic timing for optimal experiences. Winter (December-February) offers the most comfortable conditions with temperatures ranging 19-30°C, minimal rainfall, and pleasant sea breezes. This peak season sees 40-50% higher accommodation rates, but rewards visitors with perfect weather for temple hopping and Marina Beach strolls. Pre-monsoon (March-May) brings intense heat (24-42°C) and humidity, making it ideal for budget travelers seeking 30-40% lower prices, though sightseeing requires early morning starts. Monsoon season (June-November) delivers heavy rainfall (1,200-1,400mm annually), transforming the city into a lush green paradise. While accommodation drops 25-35%, intermittent flooding can disrupt travel plans. Festival considerations add magical dimensions to visits: Pongal (mid-January) showcases Tamil harvest celebrations, Chennai Music Season (December-January) fills venues with classical concerts, and Navaratri (September-October) brings vibrant temple festivities. Beach lovers should visit November-February when seas are calmest. Culture enthusiasts will find December-January ideal for music festivals and pleasant temple visits. Budget travelers benefit from March-May despite the heat, while monsoon lovers can experience Chennai's dramatic seasonal transformation from June-September, though flexibility with indoor activities is essential.