Experience the Best of Chennai
Chennai, a city of contrasts, offers a blend of ancient heritage and modern charm, ensuring a memorable and diverse experience for visitors. Experience its diverse culture, vibrant streets, delightful cuisine and iconic landmarks for an unforgettable journey.
Best Time to Visit Chennai
Chennai typically experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year. However, from October to February, the weather is quite pleasant. This season offers an ideal opportunity to explore the city's attractions, enjoy outdoor activities, and fully immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. For those keen on festive celebrations and cultural events, visiting during festivals such as Pongal and cultural grandeur like the Margazhi Music and Dance Festival is highly recommended.
Where to Stay in Chennai
Chennai caters to a wide spectrum of travellers with an array of stay options. Whether you prefer luxury hotels with world-class amenities or business hotels closer to the airport, Chennai offers a wide range of stay options.
Luxury Stays
- Taj Coromandel: One of the oldest 5-star hotels in Chennai which also has the legacy of hosting some of the world-famous icons, this hotel boasts of opulent rooms, a 24-hour multi-cuisine coffee shop, and specialty restaurants.
- ITC Grand Chola: This 5-star hotel offers lavish accommodations, outstanding service, a variety of dining options, spa amenities, and sophisticated event venues. The hotel also offers service apartments for extended stays.
- The Leela Palace Chennai: Situated by the sea, the property is a perfect fusion of contemporary amenities and traditional architecture in the city.
Upscale / Full-Service Stays
- Taj Connemara: An upscale heritage establishment, with a legacy of 127 years. This business-oriented hotel offers luxurious accommodations, a variety of fine dining experiences, modern amenities, and outstanding hospitality.
- Hyatt Regency Chennai: This property provides facilities tailored for business travellers. It includes meeting rooms, business centre services, and proximity to the city's commercial centres.
- The Accord Metropolitan: Equipped with amenities conducive to business travellers, this place is apt for meeting spaces and corporate services.
Places to Visit in Chennai
Monuments
Chennai has a rich cultural history that is visible through its glorious landmarks like Fort St. George, San Thome Basilica, and Valluvar Kottam.
City Attractions
Chennai offers a wide array of experiences, spanning cultural heritage, nature getaways, religious landmarks, and relaxed beach outings. Some of the famous attractions are Marina Beach, Besant Nagar Beach, MGR Film City, Guindy National Park, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and the Government Museum and National Art Gallery.
Shopping
Chennai is a shopper's paradise with traditional markets and upscale malls with branded outlets. T. Nagar is an exceptional market for traditional clothing, accessories, and jewellery. Stores like Nalli's and Pothy's are well known for authentic silk sarees. Check out the Phoenix Marketcity and Express Avenue Mall if you are looking for some high-end international brands.
Culinary Treats
If you are in Chennai, one thing you cannot miss is its food. While the Saravana Bhavan and Murugan Idli Shop stand out as iconic destinations for authentic South Indian vegetarian fare, seafood enthusiasts can try the Minerva Seafood Restaurant and Seagull. Guests seeking fine dining experiences have the Dakshin at Crowne Plaza, Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel, and The Flying Elephant.
Travelling in and Around Chennai
Chennai provides a range of transportation choices, simplifying navigation and catering to diverse preferences and budgets. App-based cab services offer convenient travel options, ensuring seamless city commuting. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily accessible on the streets or via apps, but it's advisable to confirm fares beforehand. The Chennai Metro, although covering limited routes, serves as an efficient mode of travel, particularly in specific city areas.