Chennai

Chennai

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a major coastal city with a strong connection to Tamil culture, classical music, dance and cinema. Its character is shaped by the Bay of Bengal, historic neighbourhoods and long-established cultural institutions. Traditional food, temple festivals and the annual Margazhi music season give visitors a deeper understanding of the city’s heritage and everyday life.

Must-Visit Places in Chennai

Editor-curated must-visit attractions and landmarks in Chennai

  • Must Visit

    Elliot's Beach

    A peaceful Chennai beach known for evening strolls, cafés, and calm vibes.

  • Must Visit

    Government Museum

    One of India’s oldest museums, featuring impressive art, archaeology, and bronze collections.

  • Must Visit

    Guindy National Park

    A green haven in the city with deer, birds, and nature trails.

  • Must Visit

    Kapaleeswarar Temple

    A 7th-century Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Mylapore, Chennai, famed for its towering gopuram and the annual Arubathimoovar festival.

  • Must Visit

    Marina Beach

    The world's second-longest urban beach, buzzing with activity and charm.

  • Must Visit

    Parthasarathy Temple

    One of the 108 Divya Desams in Chennai's Triplicane, dedicated to Lord Krishna as a charioteer and dating back to the 8th-century Pallava dynasty.

View all places to visit(37)

Best Time to Visit Chennai

Plan your trip around the right season

Dec-FebBest Window

Why visit

Most comfortable coastal weather for temples and beaches.

Keep in mind

Holiday season can be busier.

Mar-Jun

Why visit

Works for short indoor-heavy itineraries.

Keep in mind

High heat and humidity.

Jul-Nov

Why visit

Lower rates in parts of the season.

Keep in mind

Northeast monsoon in Oct-Nov can be intense.

How to Reach Chennai

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Chennai International Airport and major rail hubs like Chennai Central and Egmore.

Getting Around Chennai

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Chennai Metro, suburban rail, MTC buses, autos, and cabs offer good city-wide coverage.

Best Areas to Stay in Chennai

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

T Nagar

Shopping + central access

Well-connected neighborhood with strong retail and hotel options.

Mylapore

Culture + temples

Heritage-rich locality close to iconic temples and traditional city character.

OMR / Sholinganallur

Business + longer stays

Large hotel inventory and easier access to IT corridor.

Must-Try Dishes in Chennai

Local food specialties and traditional favourites

Idli Sambar

Steamed rice cakes with hot lentil stew and chutneys.

Dosa

Thin fermented crepe served with chutney and sambar.

Ven Pongal

Comforting rice-lentil dish tempered with pepper and ghee.

Filter Coffee

Iconic metal-tumbler coffee with deep roast flavor.