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Chennai Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to do & Other Chennai Travel Essentials

A Chennai travel guide is among the most helpful things you can have if visiting this spectacular South Indian city for the first time. Chennai has been blessed with a scenic landscape, mouthwatering cuisine, and an incredibly rich time-honored history. It would be an understatement to say that Chennai is among the best destinations to explore in India. The capital of Tamil Nadu state, it is home to so many attractions that it leaves first timers utterly confused about where to begin and what to see first! This is where our Chennai travel guide will come in incredibly handy.

Check out the most helpful Chennai travel guide you’ll ever come across and enjoy exploring this gorgeous South Indian city without a single hassle whatsoever! Just let the travel guide Chennai we’ve brought you to guide your way through the visit.

Getting to and from Chennai International Airport:

Whether you’re on a planned vacation or down on last minute flights , you will arrive at the spectacular  Chennai International Airport (MAA) . The cheapest way to the city from the airport is via the suburban train which you can catch from the Chennai Park Station. There is also the bus service you can make use of. Get the exact Chennai tourist information about buses at the airport help desk and board the right bus likewise. Alternatively, you can hire cabs. You will find prepaid taxi booths outside both terminals of the Chennai International Airport. You can book an Uber or Ola cab as well.

Getting around in Chennai:

Our Chennai travel guide lists many ways to get around in the city. Public buses are operated efficiently by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation, or MTC. Thereby, you will find a vast number of air-conditioned and ordinary buses plying to various parts of the city. Traveling like the locals will add to your amazing Chennai travel experience. However, if public buses aren’t your thing, you can always hire taxis, rent cars, or use auto rickshaws. Although costlier than buses, they are comfortable modes of transport across Chennai.

Where to stay in Chennai:

There are countless options when it comes to accommodation in Chennai. You will find many Chennai travel blogs online that will list some top places to stay in Chennai when arriving on business class flights . Be assured that there are accommodations that suit all types of budget requirements. So pick a place to stay depending on your budget, location, and other requirements. Top places to stay listed by our Chennai travel guide include Old Woodlands, Oriental Inn, Hotel Regent, Westin Park, Lemon Tree Hotel, Courtyard Chennai, ITC Hotel Park Sheraton & Towers, Radisson GRT Hotel, Taj Coromandel, and Trident Chennai among others.

Top things to see and do in Chennai:

Chennai tourism is among the most flourishing ones in the country owing to the number of amazing attractions this splendid city is home to. You will need to make multiple trips to Chennai to as there is simply too much to cover in a single trip! Here’s a look at the best attractions listed by our Chennai travel guide.

• Historical sites: There are several historical places in Chennai that history-loving tourists will be thrilled to explore. Some of the most popular ones you can visit include Fort St. George, the Regional Grand Lodge of Southern India, and Adyar to name a few. You can visit some popular museums as well such as the Government Museum and the National Art Gallery for a detailed peek into Chennai’s incredible past.
• Religious places: Chennai is famously home to some of the most ancient and spectacular temples in South India. The must-visit Kapaleeshwar Temple is perhaps the most popular tourist place in Chennai. Other famous places of worship to visit in Chennai as listed by our Chennai travel guide include Parthasarathy Temple, Ashtalakshmi Temple, Kalikambal Temple, Wallajah Mosque, and St. Thomas Mount among other places.
• Chennai beaches: Some of the most beautiful beaches of South India can be found right here in Chennai. Visited by locals, tourists, families, couples, and friends alike, beaches are among the best places to visit in Chennai. Our Chennai travel guide lists top beaches you can visit such as the Marina Beach, Eliot’s Beach, and Breezy Beach.
• Family attractions: Chennai travel experiences are best when you visit with your family. Popular family attractions you can enjoy in Chennai include Cholamandal Artists’ Village, Queensland Water Park, MGM Dizzee World, Anna Zoological Park, and Guindy National Park to name a few. You can also explore the cultural, music, and food scene in Chennai with your loved ones.
• Shopping spots in Chennai: There are some amazing things you can buy in Chennai at the lowest possible prices. Must-buy items include Kanchivaram sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, ethnic wear, and fabrics of various kinds. Popular Chennai street shopping spots as listed by our Chennai travel guide include Pondy Bazaar, T Nagar, George Town, Mylapore, Anna Nagar, Panagal Park, and Egmore. There are a lot of high-end malls as well in Chennai.

Where and what to eat in Chennai:

You will find a plethora of upmarket restaurants, beach cafes, mid-range eateries, and even street food stalls serving a wide assortment of mouthwatering cuisine in Chennai . Food is a vital part of Chennai tourism. Your trip to this remarkable city will remain incomplete unless you’ve tried some of the most delicious and popular food items in Chennai. Try unfailingly the lip-smacking local dishes that include Idli, Vada, Sambar, Dosa, Chicken 65, Pongal, Crab Rasam, Prawn/Fish Biryani, and Chettinad Chicken among other things.

Popular places to eat in our Chennai travel guide include Amaravathi, Anupama Southern Spice, Madurai Appu, Mughal’s Zaika, Murugan Idli Shop, Pizzaurant, Cafe Mercara, The Residency and scores of other places. Do check beforehand if you need to make reservations when visiting high-end restaurants.

Best time to visit Chennai:

Chennai has a reputation of being one of the hotter regions in India. Thereby, our Chennai travel guide suggests you avoid booking cheap flights to Chennai for a visit during summer. The humidity, scorching sun, and generally arid climate will wreak havoc on your sightseeing plans. For the best Chennai travel experience, visit any time between November and February. Chennai tourism is best explored during these pleasant winter months without you having to worry about sunburns and heat strokes. So keep our Chennai travel guide in hand and plan a winter visit to this spectacular South Indian city!

Chennai Festivals :

When it comes to festivals and cultures of South India, Tamil Nadu is one of those states in India which has carefully preserved its tradition. There are various colorful festivals celebrated throughout the year in the state such as Pongal, Thaipusam, Thiruvaiyaru Festival, Natyanjali Dance Festival, Mahamaham, Tamil New Year’s Day, Karthigai Deepam, etc. And if you visit its capital city during this time, you’ll find many interesting things to do in Chennai during these festivals. 

Chennai travel tips:

If you are planning to travel long distances, use underground metro services during the afternoon and evening to avoid traffic. Local food and water are to be consumed carefully. Instead, use purified bottled water. Pickpocketing in crowded areas is common in Chennai, so take care of your belongings. If you are shopping, always bargain, as the shopkeepers tend to quote a higher price. This travel guide to Chennai might be helpful for you especially if you are a first time visitor.

1: What are the best places to visit in Chennai?

A: There are many popular places to visit in Chennai like Marina Beach, Dakshinachitra, Elliot’s Beach, Mylapore, Sri Parthasarathy Temple, Connemara Public Library, Valluvar Kottam etc.

 2: Is Chennai worth visiting?

A: Yes, obviously. There are a variety of places to visit in Chennai like beaches, mosques, museums, national parks, temples, fishing harbors and a lot more. There are various things to do in Chennai apart from just sightseeing. 

 3: W hat is the main festival of Chennai?

A: There are many festivals throughout the year like Pongal, Thaipusam, Thiruvaiyaru Festival, Natyanjali Dance Festival, Mahamaham, Tamil New Year’s Day, Karthigai D eepam, etc.

– Travel Diary

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Chennai (Madras)

If you have time to explore Chennai (formerly Madras), this 284-sq-mi (400-sq-km) conglomerate of urban villages and diverse neighborhoods making up Tamil Nadu's capital will pleasantly surprise you. Its role is as keeper of South Indian artistic, religious and culinary traditions.

Free Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Government Museum

Housed across from the striking British-built Pantheon Complex, this excellent museum is Chennai’s best. The big highlight is building 3, the Bronze…

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Mylapore is one of Chennai's most characterful and traditional neighbourhoods; it predated colonial Madras by several centuries. Its Kapaleeshwarar Temple…

San Thome Cathedral

This soaring Roman Catholic cathedral, a stone's throw from the beach, was founded by the Portuguese in 1523, then rebuilt by the British in neo-Gothic…

Producers of beautiful hand-printed books, this publishing company is based in southern Chennai. Visit its Book Building showroom, where you can browse,…

Vivekananda House

The marshmallow-pink Vivekananda House is interesting not only for its displays on the famous ‘wandering monk’, Swami Vivekananda, but also for its…

Book Building

Within this mural-covered space, Tara Books stages free exhibitions, author talks and workshops with visiting artists, and displays its own highly…

Sri Ramakrishna Math

The tranquil, flowery grounds of the Ramakrishna Math are a world away from Mylapore's chaos. Orange-robed monks glide around and there’s a reverential…

St Thomas Mount

The reputed site of St Thomas’ martyrdom in AD 72 rises in the southwest of Chennai, 2.5km north of St Thomas Mount train station. The Church of Our Lady…

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15 free things to do in chennai, india's southern capital.

Express Avenue

This is one of Chennai's best and most central shopping malls, full of major international and Indian apparel chains. The top-floor food court is good for…

Madras High Court

Completed in 1892, this imposing red Indo-Saracenic structure is said to be the world's largest judicial building after the Courts of London. The central…

Fort Museum

The Fort Museum has exhibitions on Chennai's origins and the fort itself, and displays interesting military memorabilia and artwork from colonial times…

Madras Lighthouse

At the southern end of Marina Beach, the fourth-incarnation Madras Lighthouse is India's only one with a lift; it's ridiculously popular, but the…

Marina Beach

Take an early morning or evening stroll (you don’t want to roast here at any other time) along the 3km-long main stretch of Marina Beach and you’ll pass…

Theosophical Society

Between the Adyar River and the coast, the 100-hectare grounds of the Theosophical Society provide a peaceful, green, vehicle-free retreat from the city…

Parthasarathy Temple

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Phoenix Market City

Chennai's newest, most luxurious shopping mall hosts all the big-name Indian and international brands and chains, from Chanel and Zara to Bata, Lifestyle,…

Fort St George

Finished in 1653 by the British East India Company, the fort has undergone many facelifts. Inside the vast perimeter walls (the ramparts are 18th-century…

St Mary's Church

Completed in 1680, yellow-washed St Mary's Church was the first English church in Madras and is India's oldest surviving British-built church. Both Robert…

Valluvar Kottam

This 1976 memorial honours the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar and his classic work, the 133-chapter Thirukural. Its most striking element is a 31m-high stone…

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Chennai Guide: Planning Your Trip

What to Know Before You Go

Peter Adams/Getty Images

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is known as the gateway to South India. This city has a population of about 10 million people, making it India's fifth largest city after Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Chennai has managed to retain a spaciousness that's lacking in other major Indian cities despite being an important city for manufacturing, healthcare, and IT. It's a sprawling and busy, yet conservative, city with deep traditions and culture that are yet to give way to the growing foreign influence there. Find out what to know before you go in this Chennai travel guide.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Chennai has a hot and humid climate. Summer temperatures in late May and early June often reach an extreme 38–42 degrees Celsius (100–107 degrees Fahrenheit). The city receives most of its rainfall during the northeast monsoon , from mid-September to mid-December. Heavy rains can be a problem then. The temperature decreases to an average of 24 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit) during winter, from November to February, but doesn't drop below 20 degrees Celsius (68 Fahrenheit).
• Language: Tamil and English.
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Chennai does not have daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: App-based cabs such as Uber and Ola are the most convenient way of getting around. Auto rickshaws are plentiful but fares are relatively expensive and rarely charged as per the meter. Foreigners are usually quoted excessively high rates (often more than double) and should be prepared to negotiate hard before the journey. Buses are cheap, albeit chaotic, and cover most of the city. There's the newly-operational Metro rail network as well.
• Travel Tip: Chennai experiences high humidity throughout the year, so pack breathable cotton clothes.

Getting There

Chennai is situated on the east coast of India. Chennai International Airport is conveniently only 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the city center. It's well connected in terms of transport. Chennai Central railway station and Egmore railway station receive long distance trains from all over India.

Things to Do

Unlike some other cities in India, Chennai doesn't have any world-famous monuments or tourist attractions. It's a city that requires time and effort to really get to know and appreciate it. These top places to Visit in Chennai will give you a feel for the city's distinctive culture and what makes it special. Storytrails conducts very interesting immersive tours. The five-week Madras Music Season in December and January is a big cultural draw. The annual Mylapore Festival is held in early January, just before the Pongal festival in mid-January. However, Chennai lacks the cosmopolitan nightlife of other Indian cities.

There are plenty of places to visit near Chennai. The tourist circuit of Chennai, Mamallapuram and Kanchipuram is often referred to as Tamil Nadu's Golden Triangle.

In addition, there are two amusement parks a short distance from the city -- the amusement park at VGP Universal Kingdom , and MGM Dizzy World.

What to Eat and Drink

The South Indian cuisine in Chennai features staples such as idli and sambar, vada and sambar, masala dosa, and filter coffee. Being a coastal city, fish curry is ubiquitous. Head to the snack stalls on Marina beach for sundal (chickpeas). Most importantly, try a South Indian thali (platter), which comes with an assortment of dishes and is a meal in itself. Ponnusamy Hotel on Jaganathan Road in Nungambakkam is famous for its humongous Baahubali Thali with 50 items! It's too big for one person to eat alone. The Marina, on College Road in Nungambakkam, is renowned for its fresh seafood and is environmentally-conscious. Thaligai Restaurant in Mylapore serves authentic vegetarian fare, featuring specialty heirloom dishes that aren't available elsewhere. Try the inexpensive messes (informal restaurants) in Mylapore for great south Indian food as well -- Karpagambal Mess, Rayar Mess, and Mami Mess are recommended. Hotel Saravana Bhavan is a popular vegetarian restaurant chain, with a branch near Egmore Station. Murugan Idli Shop is also legendary. Go to Paati Veedu in T. Nagar for traditional South Indian cuisine with a twist.

To learn more about the local cuisine in Chennai, take this food walk through Adyar.

Where to Stay

Luxury hotels in Chennai are generally less expensive than in cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. Mid-range hotels also provide great value for money. In terms of location, Mylapore is one of the best neighborhoods for tourists, as it's full of history and culture. Savera Hotel is a popular choice there.

Culture and Customs

Chennai was originally a cluster of small villages until English merchants of the British East India Company selected it as the site for a factory and trading port in 1639. The British developed it as a major urban center and naval base, and by the 20th Century, the city had become an administration hub. In recent years, Chennai has achieved booming industrial growth across a range of sectors, encouraged by the city's favorable infrastructure and availability of space.

As Chennai is one of the most conservative major cities in India, it's important to dress in a manner that respects this. Revealing or tight-fitting clothes, both on men and women, should be avoided even at the beach. Lightweight clothes that cover the arms and legs are best.

Chennai is a relatively safe destination that experiences less crime than most other major Indian cities. The main problems are pick-pocketing and begging. Beggars specifically target foreigners and can be quite aggressive. Avoid giving any money because it will only attract them in swarms. The unruly traffic in Chennai is another problem to be aware of. Drivers often drive in an undisciplined manner, so extra care should be taken when crossing the road.

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The Best Time to Visit Chennai, India

India › Best Time to Visit Chennai Updated: January 13, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Best Hotels in Chennai
• Where to Stay in Chennai

When is the Best Time to Visit Chennai?

• Chennai Hotel & Neighborhood Map

The best time to visit Chennai is in January, February, and March. These months avoid the extreme heat and bulk of the rain, and temperatures hover between 21°C and 34°C. Since Chennai is not a major tourist destination, airfares and room rates are moderate through the year, except on major holidays like Diwali, Christmas, and New Year’s.

The incredible facade of Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple in Chennai, India. The best time to visit Chennai is January through March.

• Best Time for Sightseeing : Like all cities in southern India, the extreme heat and monsoonal rains may affect travel plans. Unlike Mumbai and Goa, however, most rain in Chennai falls from August to December, peaking in October and November. Chennai is hot and humid all year but is worse between April and July. So, the best time for visiting is limited to January, February, and March.
• Best Time for Weather : During the dry season from January to March, days are full of sunshine, temperatures aren’t too hot (yet), sea breezes help temper the humidity, and it may not rain for weeks. During April, May, and June, temperatures rise from warm to hot and the increased humidity is particularly notable. The monsoon that pummels Mumbai and Goa on the west coast from June to September bypasses Chennai, which receives most of its rain during the northeast monsoonal period of October to mid-December. Violent storms and cyclones are not uncommon at this time, while water-logging may also affect travel plans.
• Best Time for Honeymoons : Mid-December to April. Avoid, if possible, the extreme heat, humidity, and monsoonal rains during the other months of the year.
• Best Time for Nightlife : Between January and June, rain is scarce. Hence, this is the best time for partying and bar-hopping at night, even though nightlife is fairly tame in this Tamil-dominated city.
• Best Time for Saving Money : May to November. The most popular and expensive time to visit is the cooler and drier weather, so hotel rates and airfares are lowest during the monsoon season and its lead up.

Chennai Travel Seasons

• High Season (January to March) : Day after day of warm weather, without being too hot or humid, and pleasantly mild overnight. Maybe 1-2 days of rain per month. Chennai is not a major tourist destination, so it’s not much affected by large numbers of visitors and higher hotel rates around the Christmas and New Year periods.
• Shoulder Season (April and December) : Also a good time to visit, before the high heat and humidity (May and June) and after the worst of the wet season (July to November). April can still be hot and humid, and the rain lingers in early December, but by the end of the year, the streets are clean and gardens are flourishing.
• Low Season (May to November) : Chennai is not blessed with an ideal climate for sightseeing. Heat and humidity peak in May and June in the lead up to the rains, which is at its peak during the northeast monsoon in October, November, and early December, when cyclones are common. The number of tourists reduces, so hotel rates fall, but allow time to get around because travel plans may be affected during the wet season.

Chennai Weather by Month

• Chennai Weather in January : Second coolest month, but average daytime temperatures only drop to 30°C and remain a balmy 21°C overnight. Significant drop in rainfall to about one-fifth as much as December, but still the wettest month of the dry winter.
• Chennai Weather in February : Daytime temperatures rise a little from the previous month and there’s a slight reduction in average rainfall. Overnight temperatures start to increase by 1-2 degrees per month until peaking in May.
• Chennai Weather in March : Days become noticeably hotter, averaging 34°C, and overnight is a warm and humid 24°C. Driest month of the year, with barely any rain recorded.
• Chennai Weather in April : Second-driest month, with only a couple of rainy days on average, but the heat and, especially, humidity, build to an uncomfortable level for those unused to it. Daytime averages of 36°C and 26°C overnight.
• Chennai Weather in May : The worst month for heat and humidity as the amount of rain also increases. Thrice as wet as April – but still not that much – and the highest average daytime and overnight temperatures for the year: 38°C/28°C. Humidity is very uncomfortable, even for locals.
• Chennai Weather in June : Some annoying rain but certainly not the sort of monsoon now flooding the streets of other cities. Still averaging 37°C during the day and 27°C overnight, while the humidity can be unbearable for many visitors.
• Chennai Weather in July : By now, the wet season has started in earnest, alleviated by a slight decrease in temperatures, but the humidity remains very uncomfortable. Water-logging is now common in poorly-drained and low-lying areas.
• Chennai Weather in August : Another drop in average daytime and overnight temperatures, but nothing too noticeable. Slight increase in rainfall, averaging about 132mm per month, which, by now, may disrupt travel plans a little.
• Chennai Weather in September : The rain continues (although slightly less on average than the previous month), but the monsoon has still not arrived. Daytime and overnight temperatures remain fairly uncomfortable at about 34°C and 25°C respectively, exacerbated by the continuing humidity.
• Chennai Weather in October : The first of the 2 wettest months, part of the northeast monsoon that doesn’t affect cities inland or along the west coast. About 270mm of rain on average, and cyclones are not uncommon, so always be alert. Average temperatures reduce a little to 32°C during the day and the humidity decreases a little.
• Chennai Weather in November : Easily the wettest month of the year as the monsoonal rains batter the coast and damaging cyclones pass through every year or so. Expect rain every day, often for hours, flooding the streets, even outside 5-star resorts. About 360mm for the month, but still less than half of what Mumbai receives on the other coast in July.
• Chennai Weather in December : Significant changes starting with average day/night temperatures at their lowest for the year: 29°C/21°C. The rain tapers off in the second half of the month to a total of nearly one-third as much as November. Cyclones are still possible; in fact, a very severe cyclonic storm called Vardah hit Chennai in early December of 2016, causing extensive damage.

Chennai Holidays, Events, and Festivals by Months

India has the world’s second-largest population of Muslims (after Indonesia). Dates for these 4 major festivals change each year according to the Islamic calendar. Each is a public holiday when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

• Eid-al-Fitr – The end of Ramadan is celebrated with up to 3 days of feasts, music, and dance at mosques and homes.
• Eid Mulid-un-Nabi (Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday) – Celebrated with prayers and parades.
• Muharram/Ashura – Start of the Islamic New Year.
• Eid al-Adha/Zuha (Bakr-Id) – Celebrates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Animals, mostly goats, are slaughtered and shared with families and the poor.

Chennai in January

• New Year’s Day (1st) – Celebrated by families and friends. Usually some concerts.
• Makara Sankranthi/Pongal (14th or 15th) – Makara Sankranthi is celebrated more in Western India, while Pongal is celebrated in South India. Both festivals mark the end of winter. Makara Sankranthi features lots of kite-flying, while Pongal involves 3-4 days of house cleaning and decorating, paying respect to farm animals, exchanging gifts, and visiting families and friends. Sweet rice pudding is consumed during Pongal.
• Vasant Panchami (changeable, January/February) – Hindu ceremony where devotees dressed in yellow place books and instruments in front of Saraswati, the Goddess of Knowledge, for blessing, and to celebrate the coming of spring.
• Republic Day (26th) – Commemorates the adoption of the country’s constitution on January 26, 1950. Huge parades in Delhi, less restrained elsewhere. National holiday, when all government offices and many tourist attractions close.
• Tourism and Trade Fair in Chennai (January, February & March) – Various stalls and events organized by local tourism authorities to promote the attractions and culture across the city and state.

Chennai in February

• (Maha) Shivaratri (changeable, February/March) – Day of fasting as a dedication to Lord Shiva and ceremonies in temples. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• Holi (changeable, February/March) – Vibrant commemoration of the start of spring. Almost everyone – including unsuspecting foreigners – is doused with colored water and/or powder.

Chennai in March

• Chaitra Navratri (changeable, September/October) – The beginning of the new year as per the Hindu calendar. The 9th night is celebrated as Rama Navami.
• Rama Navami (changeable, March/April) – Celebrates Lord Rama’s birth. 9 days of music, dance, fasts, and feasts, and reading of the Ramayana (epic). One day is a public holiday when most government offices and some tourist attractions may close.
• Mahavir Jayanti (changeable, March/April) – Celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the most revered teacher of Jainism. Colorful festivities in temples and offerings to the poor. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• Easter (changeable, March/April) – Celebrated by the Christian minority. A few businesses may close on Good Friday.
• Gudi Padwa (changeable, March/April) – Traditional start of the Hindu New Year, marked by family visits, flying of a special flag, and spring-cleaning.

Chennai in April

• Vaisakhi (usually 13th or 14th) – Another festival related to the onset of spring, as well as the start of the New Year according to the Sikh calendar. Abundant music, dance, wrestling, and the wearing of traditional costumes.
• Ambedkar Jayanti/Bhim Jayanti (14th) – Celebrates the birth of late Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a leading historical figure. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in May

• Vesak/Buddha Purnima (changeable, April/May) – Solemn festivals at temples marking the birth and death of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in June

• Nothing notable, and the weather across this part of India precludes outdoor events.

Chennai in July

• Raksha Bandhan/Rakhi (changeable, July/August) – Hindu festival marking the importance of families, especially siblings. Commonly called Brother and Sister Day, where sisters tie colorful strings (Rakhis) on their brothers’ hands, and brothers give gifts in return.

Chennai in August

• Independence Day (15th) – Celebrates India’s independence from Britain in 1947. Patriotic time, with government buildings suitably decorated and ceremonies held, especially in Delhi. Also, a time for families to get together. National public holiday when all government offices and many tourist attractions close.
• Parsi New Year (17th) – Celebrated by Parsis who follow the ancient religion of Zoroastrianism. Chennai’s Royapuram fire temple is 110 years old.
• Madras Day (22nd) – Part of a week-long celebration of the city’s foundation in the mid-17th century. Concerts, food markets, and other events all over the city.
• Janmashtami (changeable, August/September) – Celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna with offerings, fasting, and decorations on buildings. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• Ganesh Chaturthi (changeable, August/September) – Up to 10 days of celebrations for the birth of the highly-revered elephant-headed God, Ganesha. Celebrated with fervor across the city and state.

Chennai in September

• Navaratri (changeable, September/October) – Nine days of passionately celebrating the battle of Goddess Durga over a demon. Lights and fireworks all over the city, as well as colorful parades and cultural events. The 9th day is Dussehra.
• Dussehra (changeable, September/October) – Celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, and the general battle of good over evil. Praying at temples, offerings of special food, and burning of Ravana’s effigies. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in October

• Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti (2nd) – Sombre occasion commemorating the birthday of the country’s founding father, Mahatma Gandhi. National holiday, when all government offices and many tourist attractions close.
• Karaka Chaturthi/Karva Chauth (changeable, October/November) – Venerating Lord Shiva and the Goddess Parvati, it’s a social occasion for families and friends. Also, fasting and other special ceremonies among married women to wish for long and healthy lives for their husbands.
• Diwali/Deepavali (changeable, October/November) – Major 5-day festival of lights, candles, and fireworks. Busy time for travel because it’s celebrated by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. One day is a public holiday when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in November

• Karthigai Deepam (changeable, November/December) – Period after Diwali (see above) when Tamils paint murals and place diyas (small lamps) outside houses.
• Guru Nank Jayanti (changeable) – Celebrates the birth of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, and is marked by prayers and parades. Public holiday.

Chennai in December

• Christmas Day (25th) – Celebrated by all Christians and most tourists. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• New Year’s Eve (31st) – Celebrated by most Indians, and all tourists, but perhaps not as boisterously as in the West.
• Margazhi/Chennai Festival of Dance and Music (mid-December to mid-January) – One month of traditional music and classical dance at various locations across the city.
• Chennai Book Fair (December to January) – For 10 days over the Christmas/New Year period, book-lovers and authors converge for this renowned literary fair.

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What is the best time to visit Chennai?

October to February during the winters and the pre-monsoons season is the best time to visit Chennai. This time of the year is considered as the best time to explore the metropolitan city as summers are scorching and monsoons bring torrential downpours and cyclones. Its geographical location on the beautiful coastline mostly keeps the city's weather hot and humid. 

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The Best Time to Visit Chennai, India for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Chennai for ideal weather are

October 29th to March 18th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Chennai Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Chennai Travel Info

Weather in chennai.

Average temperatures in Chennai vary greatly. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a low chance of precipitation most of the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 43rd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Chennai, the hottest months are May, June, and then April. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late May where highs are regularly around 108.6°F (42.6°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 82.2°F (27.9°C) at night.

Chennai Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Chennai temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Chennai Perceived Temperature (F)

Chennai perceived temperature (c), average chennai temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Chennai are December, January, and then November. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early January. For example, on the week of January 1st there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early to mid August with an average of 4 days of significant precipitation the week of August 6th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Chennai.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Chennai (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Chennai has some very humid months, with some very dry months. The least humid month is April (18.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is August (77.1%).

Wind in Chennai is usually calm . The windiest month is June, followed by May and July. June’s average wind speed of around 6.9 knots (7.9 MPH or 12.8 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in late May where average top sustained speeds reach 14.9 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Chennai.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to chennai.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for India; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Dec 01, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Chennai, India is December, followed by August and November. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Chennai in April. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall chennai travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel very warm. Highs range from 108.6°F (42.6°C) and 85°F (29.4°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with roughly 1 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the slowest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have hot weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 5 to 12 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in Chennai, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 97.1°F (36.2°C) and 83.4°F (28.6°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a normal amount: 1 to 6 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is somewhat cool this time of year in Chennai to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 85°F (29.4°C) and 71.4°F (21.9°C). On average, it rains or snows a very small amount: 0 to 1 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › India › Chennai, India

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Chennai is India ’s fourth largest city. It's located in the northeastern corner of Tamil Nadu on the Bay of Bengal, with a population nudging ten million. Hot, congested and noisy, it’s the major transport hub of the south and a tourist destination in its own right. The attractions of the city are diverse. It boasts fine specimens of Raj architecture, pilgrimage sites connected with the apostle, Doubting Thomas, superb Chola bronzes at its state museum, and plenty of classical music and dance performances.

The best travel tips for visiting Chennai

Best things to do in chennai, best areas to stay in chennai, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit chennai, how many days do you need in chennai, how to get here, travel ideas for india, created by local experts.

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Geographically, Chennai divides into three main sectors.

North of the River Cooum stands Fort St George, site of the first British outpost in India, and George Town, the commercial centre, which developed during British occupation. George Town’s principal landmark is Parry’s Corner, located at the southern end of Rajaji Salai.

Sandwiched between the Cooum and Adyar rivers is central Chennai, the modern, commercial heart of the metropolis, crossed and served by the city’s main thoroughfare, Anna Salai.

East of Anna Salai is the atmospheric old Muslim quarter of Triplicane and beyond is the long straight Marina with its massive beach, fishing boats and hordes of domestic tourists, saris and trousers hitched up, enjoying a paddle.

Further south along the coast is the district of Mylapore, inhabited by the Portuguese in the 1500s, with its two important places of pilgrimage and tourist attractions, Kapalishvara Temple and San Thomé Cathedral.

RoughGuides tip: Planning a trip to India? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!

Kapaleeshwarar temple, Chennai © Shutterstock

From one of the longest city beaches in the world to Cholamandal Artists’ Village here are the best things to do in Chennai

#1 Marvel at Fort St George

Fort St George is quite unlike any other fort in India. Facing the sea amid state offices, it looks more like a complex of well-maintained colonial mansions than a fort.

Many of its buildings are today used as offices and are a hive of activity during the week. It is now the house of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the Secretariat.

The fort was the first structure of Madras town and the first territorial possession of the British in India. Construction began in 1640 but most of the original buildings were damaged during French sieges and replaced later that century.

The most imposing structure is the slate-grey-and-white eighteenth-century colonnaded Fort House.

#2 Explore Fort Museum in Chennai

The collection within faithfully records the central events of the British occupation of Madras with portraits, regimental flags, weapons, East India Company coins, medals, stamps and thick woollen uniforms that make you wonder how the Raj survived as long as it did.

The first floor is now an art gallery, where portraits of prim officials and their wives sit side by side with fine sketches of the British embarking at Chennai in aristocratic finery, attended by Indians in loincloths.

Also on display are etchings by the famous artist Thomas Daniell, whose work largely defined British perceptions of India at the end of the eighteenth century.

#3 Seek out St Mary’s Church

South of the Fort Museum, past the State Legislature, stands the oldest surviving Anglican Church in Asia, St Mary’s, built in 1678 and partly renovated after the battle of 1759.

It’s distinctly English in style, crammed with plaques and statues in memory of British soldiers, politicians and their wives.

The grandest plaque, made of pure silver, was presented by Elihu Yale, former governor of Fort St George (1687–96) and founder of Yale University.

A collection of photographs of visiting dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II, is on display in the entrance porch.

St Mary's Church in Chennai India © Shutterstock

#4 Wander around George Town

The former British trading centre of George Town remains the focal area for banks, offices, shipping companies and street stalls.

This network of streets harbours a fascinating medley of architecture: eighteenth- and nineteenth-century churches, Hindu and Jain temples and a scattering of mosques, interspersed with grand mansions.

In the east, on Rajaji Salai, the General Post Office occupies a robust earth-red Indo-Saracenic building constructed in 1884.

George Town’s southern extent is marked by the bulbous white domes and sandstone towers of the High Court and the even more opulent towers of the Law College, both showing strong Islamic influence.

#5 Check out the remarkable Government Museum

The Chennai Government Museum contains some remarkable archeological finds from south India and the Deccan.

Inside the deep-red, circular main building, built in 1851, the first gallery is devoted to archeology and geology; the highlights are the dismantled panels, railings and statues from the second-century AD stupa complex at Amaravati.

These carved marble reliefs of the Buddha’s life are widely regarded as the finest achievements of early Indian art.

To the left of here high, arcaded halls full of stuffed animals lead to the ethnology gallery, where models, clothes, weapons and photographs of expressionless faces in orderly lines illustrate local tribal societies, some long since wiped out.

A fascinating display of wind and string instruments, drums and percussion includes the large predecessor of today’s sitar and several old tablas.

The museum’s real treasure trove, however, is the modern wing, which contains the world’s most complete selection of Chola bronzes.

#6 See the sublime Georgian architecture of St Andrew’s Kirk

Just northeast of Egmore Station, St Andrew’s Kirk, consecrated in 1821, is a fine example of Georgian architecture.

Modelled on London’s St Martin-in-the-Fields, it’s one of just three churches in India with a circular seating plan, laid out beneath a huge dome painted blue with gold stars and supported by a sweep of Corinthian columns.

Marble plaques around the church give a fascinating insight into the kind of people who left Britain to work for the imperial and Christian cause.

A staircase leads onto the flat roof, surrounding the dome, from where you can climb further up into the steeple past the massive bell to a tiny balcony affording excellent views of the city.

#7 Relax at The Marina, one of the longest city beaches in the world

One of the longest city beaches in the world, the Marina (Kamaraj Salai) stretches 5km from the harbour at the southeastern corner of George Town to near San Thomé Cathedral.

Going south, you’ll pass the Indo-Saracenic Presidency College (1865–71), one of a number of stolid Victorian buildings that make up the University, as well as adjacent Vivekananda House.

The beach itself is a sociable stretch, peopled by idle paddlers, picnickers and pony-riders; every afternoon crowds gather around the beach market.

However, its location, just a little downstream from the port, which belches out waste and smelly fumes, combined with its function as the toilet for the fishing community, detract from its natural beauty.

Marina beach Chennai, India © Shutterstock

#8 Visit the interesting Vivekananda House

Housed in a splendidly rotund and ornate stone building, the nineteenth-century Madras depot of the Tudor Ice Company has been converted into the interesting Vivekananda House museum.

It offers an excellent account of the life of the nineteenth-century saint, Swami Vivekananda, who stayed here for some time in 1897. Now a branch of the Sri Ramakrishna Math organisation, the museum contains attractive visual displays of Hindu beliefs, as well as photographic and detailed textual material on Vivekananda’s life.

#9 Wander around Mylapore in Chennai

Long before Madras came into existence, Mylapore, south of the Marina, was a major settlement; the Greek geographer Ptolemy mentioned it in the second century AD as a thriving port. During the Pallava period (fifth to ninth centuries) it was second only to Mamallapuram.

Its two outstanding sights are the venerable San Thomé Cathedral and the mighty Kapalishvara Temple, while the Sri Ramakrishna Math also warrants a visit.

#10 See some early Portuguese maps of India inside San Thomé Cathedral

An important stop on the St Thomas pilgrimage trail, San Thomé Cathedral marks the eastern boundary of Mylapore, lying close to the sea at the southern end of the Marina on San Thomé High Road.

Although the present neo-Gothic structure dates from 1896, it stands on the site of two earlier churches built over the tomb of St Thomas.

The saint’s relics are kept inside the nave, accessed by an underground passage from the small museum at the rear of the courtyard, and are the object of great reverence.

The museum itself houses stones inscribed in Tamil, Sanskrit (twelfth-century Chola) and early Portuguese, and a map of India, dated 1519.

#11 Find peace at the Kapalishvara Temple

The huge Kapalishvara Temple sits just under 1 km west of the San Thomé Cathedral, off RK Mutt Road.

Seventh-century Tamil poet-saints sang its praises, but the present structure, dedicated to Shiva, probably dates from the sixteenth century. The huge (40m) gopura towering above the main east entrance, plastered in stucco figures, was added in 1906.

Surrounding an assortment of busy shrines, where priests offer blessings for devotees and non-Hindus alike, the courtyard features an old tree where a small shrine to Shiva’s consort, Parvati, shows her in the form of a peahen (mayil) worshipping a lingam.

#12 Saunter through the peaceful and extensive grounds of Sri Ramakrishna Math

A short walk south of the Kapalishvara Temple, lie the peaceful and extensive grounds of the Sri Ramakrishna Math, an active place of study for devotees wishing to follow the teachings of the famous nineteenth-century master.

The focus of interest for the casual visitor is the Universal Temple of Sri Ramakrishna, an elegant construction combining architectural motifs from Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples, as well as European churches.

The manicured forecourt echoes the Islamic themes of the Mughals.

Within the temple itself are a series of prayer halls, approached by steps, and the inner sanctum contains a solid marble statue of Ramakrishna seated on a lotus.

Sri Ramakrishna Math in Chennai © Shutterstock

#13 Seek refuge in the Little Mount Caves

St Thomas is said to have sought refuge from persecution in the Little Mount Caves, 8 km south of the city centre.

Entrance to the caves is beside steps leading to a statue of Our Lady of Good Health. Inside, next to a small natural window in the rock, are impressions of what are believed to be St Thomas’ handprints, created when he made his escape through this tiny opening.

Behind the new circular church of Our Lady of Good Health is a natural spring. Tradition has it that this was created when Thomas struck the rock, so the crowds that came to hear him preach could quench their thirst; samples of its holy water are on sale.

#14 Walk to the top of St Thomas Mount

It’s said that St Thomas was speared to death while praying before a stone cross on St Thomas Mount, 11km south of the city centre.

Our Lady of Expectation Church (1523), at the summit of the Mount, can be reached by 134 granite steps marked with the fourteen Stations of the Cross.

Alternatively, there is a road that curls its way to the top, where a huge old banyan tree provides shade for devotees who come to fast, pray and sing.

Inside the church, St Thomas’ cross is rumoured to have bled in 1558, while the altar is said to mark the exact spot of the apostle’s death; the painting of the Madonna and Child above the altar is attributed to St Luke.

#15 Explore the rare Tibetan xylographs at the Theosophical Society headquarters

The Theosophical Society was established in New York in 1875 by American Civil War veteran Colonel Henry S. Olcott and the eccentric Russian aristocrat Madame Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, who claimed to have occult powers.

Based on a fundamental belief in the equality and truth of all religions, the society in fact propagated a modern form of Hinduism, praising all things Indian and shunning Christian missionaries.

Needless to say, its two founders were greeted enthusiastically when they transferred their operations to Madras in 1882, establishing their headquarters near Elliot’s Beach in Adyar.

The society’s buildings still stand today, sheltering several shrines and an excellent library of books on religion and philosophy.

The collection includes 800-year-old scroll pictures of the Buddha; rare Tibetan xylographs; exquisitely illuminated Korans; a giant copy of Martin Luther’s Biblia printed in Nuremberg three hundred years ago; and a thumbnail-sized Bible in seven languages.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore, Chennai, India © Shutterstock

Finding an inexpensive place to stay in Chennai can sometimes be a problem.

With the 24hr check-out system, it’s difficult to predict availability and some of the cheaper places don’t take advance bookings.

The good news is that standards in the cheapies are better than in other cities.

Egmore and Triplicane

Most of the mid-range and inexpensive hotels are around the railway station in Egmore and further east in Triplicane.

To the south of Chennai

The bulk of the top hotels are in the south of the city and several offer courtesy buses to and from the airport.

Explore the best hotels to stay in Chennai.

Chennai offers the complete range of dining options you would expect from a major city.

The choice ranges from dirt-cheap vegetarian “meals” joints to high-class Westernised hotel restaurants, with some unique independent venues in between. Make sure you don't miss Saravana Bhavan, a south Indian fast-food chain, there are more than twenty branches dotted around the city.

Chennai’s bar and club scene has also been growing along with the disposable income of the local middle class. Most of the major nightspots are located in the top-end hotels dotted around the south side of the city.

Nungambakkam

With a number of shopping centres, there is plenty of choice for foodies in busy Nungambakkam. The best places are on Nungambakkam High Rd and Dr MGR Salai.

Located in South Chennai, Adyarhas some trendy cafes and good-quality South Indian restaurants, especially along Sardar Patel Rd.

Besant Nagar

Situated along the coast, it’s the seafood stalls on the beach that attracts most travellers to Besant Nagar, but it’s worth stepping back onto 4th Main Rd as well where a clutch of restaurants offer plenty of variety.

San Thome church in Chennai © Shutterstock

Chennai’s sights and facilities are spread over such a wide area that it’s impossible to get around without using some form of public transport.

Most visitors jump in auto-rickshaws, but outside rush hours you can travel around comfortably by bus or on the suburban train.

A section of the new Chennai metro between Koyambedu and Alandur was up and running, as was the line from Little Mount to the airport.

By bus tour

One good way to get around the sights of Chennai is on a TTDC bus tour. They’re good value, albeit rushed, and the guides can be very helpful.

The TTDC half-day tour takes in Fort St George, the Government Museum (Birla Planetarium on Fri), the Snake Park, Kapalishvara Temple, and Marina Beach.

City trains travel between Beach (opposite the GPO), Fort, Park (for Central), Egmore, Nungambakkam, Kodambakkam, Mambalam (for T Nagar and silk shops), Saidapet (for Little Mount Church), Guindy, St Thomas Mount and Tirisulam (for the airport).

If you want to travel south from central Chennai to Guindy (Deer Park) or the airport, the easiest way to go is by suburban train (aka the MRST). Buy a ticket before boarding.

Local bus routes radiate out from the amalgamated Express and Broadway bus stands, between Central train station and George Town. On Anna Salai and other major thoroughfares buses have dedicated stops, but on smaller streets you have to flag them down, or wait with the obvious crowd.

By rickshaw

Auto-rickshaw drivers in Chennai are notorious for demanding high fares from locals and tourists alike. The diversions and one-way systems in place due to the construction of the metro are having a considerable effect on journey times and hence rickshaw prices.

Chennai’s yellow-top Ambassador taxis have metres but drivers often refuse to use them, so prepare yourself for some hard bargaining.

The ideal time to visit Chennai is during the pleasant winter months from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This allows for enjoyable exploration of the city's attractions, outdoor activities, and leisurely beach walks.

It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season from June to September due to heavy rainfall and the hot and humid summer months from March to May.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

St Andrews church, Chennai © Shutterstock

If you're primarily interested in exploring the city's major attractions and experiencing its cultural offerings, a duration of 2 to 3 days should be sufficient. This will allow you to visit popular landmarks such as the Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, Government Museum, and San Thome Basilica. Additionally, you can explore traditional markets like Pondy Bazaar and T. Nagar for shopping and immerse yourself in the local cuisine.

If you wish to extend your stay and explore beyond the city, you can consider allocating more time. Chennai serves as a gateway to other notable destinations in Tamil Nadu, such as Mahabalipuram (famous for its UNESCO World Heritage site temples and beach) and Pondicherry (known for its French colonial architecture and serene ambiance), which can be visited as day trips or overnight stays.

Chennai airport, the airport in Tirisulam, 16 km southwest of the city centre on NH-45, is comprehensively served by international and domestic flights.

The new international and domestic terminals are a short walk from each other, on opposite sides of the old terminal.

Facilities at both are much better on the air side than the land side.

Chennai has two main long-distance railway stations – Egmore and Central, both on the north side of the city centre and just 1.5km apart. Egmore station is the arrival point for most trains from Tamil Nadu and Kerala .

Mofussil Bus Stand Buses from all long-distance destinations use the huge Mofussil Bus Stand, inconveniently situated in the suburb of Koyambedu, more than 10 km west of the centre.

Mofussil is linked to other parts of Chennai by a host of city buses, which depart from the well-organised platforms outside the main terminal.

Boats leave Chennai every week/ten days for Port Blair, capital of the Andaman Islands .

The first thing you’ll need to do is contact the Shipping Corporation of India at 17 Rajaji Salai, Jawahar Building, George Town to find out when the next sailing is.

Tickets usually go on sale up to a month prior to departure. There are no ticket sales on the day of sailing.

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Chennai Tourism and Travel Guide

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Best Places To Visit In Chennai

Best Luxury Hotels In Chennai

Best Mid-Range Hotels In Chennai

Best Budget Hotels In Chennai

Best Hostels And Homestays In Chennai

Travel Articles And Blogs For Chennai

Places To Visit Near Chennai

Best Time To Visit Chennai

Peak Season : Winters ( November to February ) are the best time to visit Chennai. The temperature during these months fluctuate between 20 to 25 degrees celsius, making the city perfect for sightseeing. Also, tourists can engage in the festive revelry during January when Pongal is celebrated across the city with much enthusiasm.

Shoulder Season : July to September usher in the monsoons to Chennai. And while the rainfall brings relief from the sweltering heat of the summers, there is frequent and heavy downpour in the city. But if you can brave the rains, Chennai is equally beautiful, if not more during this season.

Off-season: March to June is when the city is at his hottest. With temperature reaching as high as 40 degrees celsius, the hotel tariffs and flight rates drop during this season.

Budget For Chennai

For Budget Travellers: INR 600 - 1000 a day

• Accommodation in hostels and basic rooms in guesthouses: INR 200-500
• Food in local tiffin-houses and street eateries: INR 50-200
• Public Transport in buses: INR 10 - 100
• Sightseeing (Entry-tickets & shows): INR 10 - 100

For Mid-range Travellers: INR 1000 to INR 3000 a day

• Accommodation in mid-range hotels and homestays: INR 600 - 1500
• Food in mid-range cafes and restaurants: INR 250 - 600
• Local transport in auto-rickshaws, and local taxis: INR 150 - 400
• Sightseeing & Tours: INR 10 - 1000

For Luxury Travellers: INR 6000 and upwards

• Accommodation in 4* or 5* hotels: INR 3000 and upwards
• Food in upscale restaurants and bars: INR 900 and upwards
• Local transport in cabs: INR 400 and upwards
• Sightseeing, Guided Tours: INR 1000 and upwards

Travel Time Calculator

Quick links, travel duration calculator.

Travelmath provides an online travel time calculator to help you figure out flight and driving times. You can compare the results to see the effect on the total duration of your trip. Usually, the flight time will be shorter, but if the destination is close, the driving time can still be reasonable.

Another popular tool is the time difference calculator, which can be used to check the time zone change anywhere in the world. This is especially useful if you're making international calls, since you can find the best time to schedule your phone call.

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The Perfect Chennai Itinerary: The BEST things to do in Chennai in 2 days

Chennai will surprise you. This megacity lacks this history of Delhi, the culture of Kolkata, and the glamour of Mumbai. But it more than makes up for it with charm and opportunities for off-the-beaten-path adventure. You can design the perfect Chennai itinerary for just two days.

This city’s magic is not so much the headline attractions. It’s more the charming neighborhoods, local temples, and friendly vibe that make Chennai one of India’s most unexpectedly alluring destinations for backpackers.In this post, you’ll discover the best things to do in Chennai, from eating the world’s best biryani at a street stall to learning about an important religious icon to watching the sunset on one of the longest urban beaches in the world.

Strap on a good pair of walking shoes — Chennai is spread-out — and let’s dive in!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to purchase through these links, I receive a percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you.

Chennai itinerary FAQ’s

When you first get off your train/bus/plane in Chennai, you might feel a little overwhelmed. After all, this city is almost as large as New York. But instead of concentrating all its people into skyscrapers, it sprawls for miles and miles.

What’s more, once you get off the main streets, the neighborhoods turn into confusing mazes of alleyways. It’s definitely worth downloading an offline Google map onto your phone in advance to help you get oriented.

Here are a few other tips to make sure you arrive safely and comfortably.

When is the best time for Chennai tours?

Chennai, like most of southern  India , is hot and humid year-round. The heat can feel extra unbearable here due to the crowds.

The coolest and driest time of year in south India is December-March. Highs are in the 80’s, lows are in the high 60’s, and rain is occasional. I visited in January and stayed dry.

It’s worth avoiding June-August if you can. This is monsoon season in India. It only rains for a couple hours each day, but since Chennai is both a coastal and river city, floods are very common.

Where to stay in Chennai

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to Chennai accommodation. Pick from luxury hotels, swanky hostels, or cheapie guesthouses.

The best choice for travelers on a moderate budget is  Zostel Chennai . This hostel caters to the flashpacker crowd, with dorm beds starting at $14 a night. But it has great, clean facilities and is very social.

For cheaper digs, wander around the area near Egmore Train Station. As always, solo women should be cautious to make sure your door locks when choosing a train-station-adjacent hotel. I snagged a dorm bed at the YWCA, which ran just $4 a night and was very safe.

How to get around Chennai

Chennai is not the most walkable city. It’s very big and very spread-out, and most of the best things to do in Chennai are far apart from each other. If you have time and don’t mind walking 10+km a day, you could walk to everything in this itinerary. Otherwise you’ll need some kind of local transport.

The easiest way to get around is with the metro system. You can buy a one-day unlimited use card for just 100 rupees. The system is efficient and easy to use as a visitor. All stations have signs in English.

If you’re feeling brave, you could try hopping on a local bus. Fares are ridiculously cheap — like, 5 rupees cheap. But the system is confusing unless you know the city well.

Finally, you’ll find taxi and rickshaw drivers waiting for passengers all over the city. Remember to bargain the fare before hopping in!

What should I wear in Chennai?

People in Chennai dress pretty much however they want. You’ll see folks in tight skirts and t-shirts alongside folks in traditional dress.

Women visiting the city may feel more comfortable if you cover your shoulders and knees. And like everywhere in south India, if you choose to buy local clothes (tunics and pants), it’ll be a great conversation starter with local women.

Is Chennai safe for solo female travelers?

As a 7+-million-person city, Chennai has its share of problems. But they’re not likely to impact you as a tourist.

Solo female travelers may get the occasional cat call or flirty guy sauntering up next to them at a bar. And you should always keep your valuables close in big crowds — pickpocketing or petty theft is the biggest risk.

As long as you don’t wander around late at night, you have very little to worry about in terms of violent crime when visiting Chennai.

The BEST 2 day Chennai tour itinerary

Start your day off with breakfast from a street stall. Idly and vada (rice pancakes and fried lentil dough) with lentil broth (sambar) and coconut chutney is the classic way to start your day. It’ll cost you less than 30 rupees including chai. Just make sure the vada are hot so you don’t get sick! Then get started on the day’s activities.

On your first day, stay in the city center. Remember — this itinerary is short on must-see attractions because I want to leave you plenty of time to wander around the neighborhoods. Take your time and drink plenty of chai along the way!

1. Visit St. Andrew’s Church

In the middle of one of the busiest parts of the city, St. Andrew’s Church is an oasis. This whitewashed 19th century church features typical South Indian Christian architecture.

The churchyard is amazingly green, considering it’s in the middle of one of the most congested neighborhoods in Chennai. This is a great place to relax for a few minutes when you need a break from the hustle and bustle.

Definitely peak inside if you visit outside of service times. The columned architecture is unique for the region.

Price:  Free

Hours:  10 am-5 pm, closed Fridays

Location:  Right in the middle of Egmore

2. Check out the mosques in the city center

One of the most fascinating neighborhoods in Chennai is the majority-Muslim area between Lic metro station and the beach. This winding maze of alleys hosts over 10 mosques, dozens of streetside biryani joints, and a generally historical vibe that feels ages away from the mega-malls on the main boulevards.

Most mosques do not allow non-Muslims to visit. But you can still admire them from the outside. Masjid-e-Hujjathul Qayam is a beautiful shade of blue. Walajah Big Mosque has a palm-tree-lined campus.

Don’t miss the opportunity to grab a biryani from one of the vendors here — it may be the best one you try in India. Lamb is the local specialty, but everyone offers veggie options too. This area doesn’t cater to tourists, so expect to eat your meal off a banana leaf with your hands. A biryani runs 50-80 rupees.

Hours:  All day — the neighborhood is especially lively after evening prayers

Location: Between Lic metro and the beach

3. Visit the Government Museum

The Chennai Government Museum may not sound that exciting. But it’s the city’s top museum and a great place to learn about Indian folklore and history.

The Bronze Gallery is the museum’s highlight. It contains bronzes from the region dating back to the 7th century. All items are signed in English, and many have longer explanations delving into their deeper meanings. If you aren’t familiar with the Ramayana before visiting, you will be after.

Other galleries include sculpture and art dating back to the beginning of south India’s civilizations up through today. You could spend half a day exploring the archaeological rooms alone.

Go ahead and skip the natural history rooms — it’s mostly taxidermy animals and dated scientific displays. The one thing in this section worth seeing is a small collection of tribal artifacts.

Price:  15 rupees

Hours:  9:30 am-5 pm, closed Fridays

Location:  Inconveniently located 25 minutes’ walking from three metro stops: Nehru Park, Egmore, and Lic

4. Eat a thali at Junior Kuppanna

Thalis are the ultimate Indian meal. You get a huge serving of rice, usually some bread, and small servings of a variety of curries, curds and pickles. Sometimes you get dessert too.

Plus, everything comes with free refills! Although chances are you’ll be too full after the first round to take advantage of that.

Eating a thali in Chennai is the best way to sample a variety of local dishes that you might not know how to order otherwise. Usually a couple of the curries contain legumes and the rest are vegetables. You can sometimes order a meat or fish option, but most places in Chennai are veg-only.

A word of warning: Tamil thalis are spicy. And those pickles innocently perching on the corner of your banana leaf are the spiciest parts of all. Order a lassi to wash it all down.

Price:  200 rupees

Hours:  6:30-11 pm

Location:  A 5-minute walk from Kodambakkam Train Station

That wraps up your first day of this Chennai trip plan.

On Day 2, head for the beach! The coastal neighborhoods are even more charming. And you’ll find a few important churches, temples, and historical sites woven in.

1. Go for a walk on Marina Beach

Marina Beach is a 12-km-long, gorgeous stretch of coastline. The water isn’t suitable for swimming — it’s too polluted and there are dangerous currents right offshore. But it’s a great place for an early-morning stroll.

You can easily find a place to grab a quick breakfast as you walk along. Street vendors serve idly, vada, omelets with toast, chai, and instant coffee. If you want more of a splurge, there are a couple of Cafe Coffee Day branches within a couple blocks of the beach.

A string of monuments dots the coast along the boardwalk. You’ll see Gandhi, of course, along with famous and important locals.

Hours:  24/7. Very crowded in the afternoon and evening.

Location:  The closest metro is Tiruvallikeni

2. Check out the University of Madras campus

The University of Madras is one of the oldest universities in India. It was established during British rule. Today it’s a large public university.

The campus’s buildings are reminiscent of churches — red brick with steeple-like structures. It’s a beautiful area to wander around for awhile.

Bonus: Since college kids love cheap food, there are plenty of street snack opportunities around!

Hours:  24/7

3. Admire the architecture at Vivekananda House

Swami Vivekananda was known as the “wandering monk.” He played a key role in bringing yoga and other Hindu spiritual practices to Western cultures. And he lived in this 19th-century house in Chennai while preaching here for a few years. When you tour the Vivekananda House, you’ll learn about his teachings and his life.

Additionally, the house is built with a unique architectural style — it’s circular. It was originally built this way to store imported ice before refrigeration was common.

The house contains a meditation room, which you are welcome to use as a traveler. Just be respectful (i.e. silent) and don’t take photographs.

Price:  20 rupees

Hours:  10 am-12:30 pm and 3-7 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.

4. Explore Mylapore

Mylapore was one of the first places people settled in Chennai — it predates the colonial city. Today, it’s a neighborhood where hawkers compete for your attention on the main streets — but the dusty back rounds are filled with kids playing and monks hustling by.

Mylapore houses a couple of the top attractions in Chennai. The first is Sri Ramakrishna Math. This is a popular place for monks to come to train, and you’ll see plenty of them milling about. They’re often keen to chat with tourists. There’s a temple on-site, as well as space for meditation. All are welcome, but you must be Hindu to visit the temple’s inner sanctum.

The other main attraction in Mylapore is Kapaleeshwarar Temple. This is Chennai’s most impressive temple, and a must-visit when you travel to the city. It was built sometime after the 15th century and truly anchored the neighborhood around it for the next 500 years. It’s dedicated to Shiva and is a fine display of Tamil architecture. As always, only Hindus can visit the inner sanctum.

Hours: Temples are generally open in the early morning, close for lunch, and open again around 2 pm.

Location: 5 minutes’ walk from Thirumayilai metro

5. Eat a dosa at Saravana Bavan

When in Tamil Nadu, eat traditional Tamil food. And that usually means dosas.

Dosas are paper-thin lentil flour pancakes stuffed with veggies and served with sambar and chutney. You tear the pancake apart with your hands, scoop up some of the filling, dip it into the sauces, and stuff it in your mouth.

You’ll encounter many varieties of dosas, but my favorite is the masala dosa. These are filled with spicy potatoes — they have a little bit of a kick, but it’s not overwhelming.

If you’ve been traveling in India for awhile and you’re sick of dosas, consider trying uttapam instead. These pancakes are similar to dosas, but a little thicker, and the fillings are cooked into the batter.

Saravana Bavan is a one-stop shop for all your South Indian foodie needs. It’s a great place to try dosas or uttapam (or thali or veggie curries). Meals run around 100 rupees here.

Price:  100-150 rupees

Hours: Noon-4 pm and 6 pm-11 pm

Location: Locations all over the city

With that, your 2 days in Chennai will come to a close. Hop directly on a night train if your next destination is far away, or call it an early night.

A few random Chennai travel tips to make the most of visit

• The staff at the Foreign Tourist Cell of the train booking office are the most helpful miracle workers in the entire country. They got me tickets on not one, but two fully booked trains. If you need to book tickets on any train for any part of your trip to India, it’s totally worth the 15-minute stop.
• The awful smell you can’t seem to escape when walking around the city? It’s the river. Definitely don’t drink tap water in Chennai.
• Tamil Nadu is the only Indian state where you’ll find coffee vendors as often as chai vendors. They brew it with chicory, milk and sugar and charge about 10 rupees a cup. It’s great!
• Chennai makes a good base for day trips throughout Tamil Nadu. Check out the best day trips from Chennai here !

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Carrie is the founder of Trains, Planes and Tuk Tuks. For more than seven years, she's been solo-backpacking around the world to places few other tourists dare to explore -- from Ethiopia to Nicaragua to Jordan and beyond. When she's not on the road, you can find her hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains and eating the world's best barbecue in her home city of Asheville, NC.

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Bangalore to Chennai by Road – Distance, Time and Useful Travel Information

Chennai certainly never disappoints its visitors. Set on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, Chennai is excessively hot and humid during the summers and unbelievably crowded at most times, yet this beautiful city has a unique charm of its own. It is steeped in tradition, yet it is modern and new. The lively city draws people for its beaches, temples and lip-smacking food. In Chennai, your mornings begin with the smell of jasmine in the streets and your days end in beautiful evenings. Book a Bangalore car rental for the best experience  on your effortless journey from Bangalore to Chennai by road and other means of travel.

Table of Contents

Why travel from bangalore to chennai.

• Traveling from Bangalore to Chennai?
• Best time to take a road trip by car
• How to Reach Chennai By Train
• How to Reach Chennai By Flight
• Attractions in Chennai for Sightseeing
• Savaari recommends – Popular places to eat in Chennai
• Hotels and resorts – Accommodation in Chennai

So if you are planning a road trip from Bangalore to Chennai, read on! We will show you two beautiful routes and tell you a bit about what you can see and eat along the way. The remaining sections describe an ideal road trip from Bangalore to Chennai.    With Savaari’s Bangalore taxi service , you can transform your drive into an enjoyable and exciting journey, while also customizing it according to your preferences, travel time, and budget.

Travelling from Bangalore to Chennai by car

The route from Bangalore to Chennai is full of hidden gems, well-kept secrets and some crown jewels in South India’s beauty. For the curious, adventurous, and spontaneous traveller, a road trip from Bangalore to Chennai by car is the best way to travel. The distance between the two cities is 346 km and can be easily covered in six and a half to seven hours . For a hassle-free experience, book a cab with Savaari and let our courteous drivers show you the best of South India.

Let us help you discover some of the best routes so your trip from  Bangalore to Chennai by road  is nothing short of amazing!

Quick Facts about Bangalore to Chennai

Best time to take a road trip from Bangalore to Chennai by car

The best time to visit Bangalore to Chennai by Car is during the months of October to February . During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool. It is advisable to avoid the summer months from April to June . The excessive heat makes the journey extremely uncomfortable and also takes away the joy of exploring nearby places. Monsoons can also be an ideal time to embark on a road trip like this. Let us talk about a few routes that one could take from Bangalore to reach Chennai. Let us also mention some of the popular places along the way, so you know exactly where to stop. If you’re travelling with a group and require a spacious and comfortable trip, you can easily book an Innova cab in Bangalore , which can seat up to 7 passengers and has features like air conditioning and plenty of luggage space.

Route 1: Distance and Time taken from Bangalore to Chennai via Mumbai Highway

Bangalore to chennai road condition via mumbai highway.

The route covers a distance of 344 km within 6.5 hours and the road condition is excellent. This route is preferred by most travelers and passes through the beautiful cities of Vellore and Krishnagiri. Offering an enriched round trip travel experience, particularly when traversing in a spacious tempo traveler from Bangalore to Chennai,it ensures a comfortable journey for larger groups while exploring these picturesque cities along the way.

Bangalore to Chennai Distance Mumbai Highway

The classic road map for this route is

Popular places along the way: 

• Krishnagiri Fort –  Built by Krishnadevaraya of the Vijaynagar Empire in the 16th century, Krishnagiri Fort is amazing for some trekking.
• Kaigal Waterfalls, Vellore – About 2.5 km from Kaigal village is an amazing picnic spot ideal for a quiet afternoon picnic with friends and family. 

• Rajiv Gandhi Memorial, Sriperumbudur – Visit the memorial where Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated.
• Vallakottai Murugan Temple, Sriperumbudur – Visit the 1,200-year-old temple which stands to this day as a fine example of India’s best architecture. The temple also houses the tallest statue of Lord Murgan in all of Chennai.  

 Places to eat along the way:

• Sri Krishna Inn, Krishnagiri – Stop for some nice South Indian food and filter coffee at Sri Krishna Inn. Their paper dosas are to die for. 
• Vellore Kitchen, Vellore – Stop here for some lip-smacking Indian and Asian dishes
• Hotel Sathyam Grand Resort’s Tokyo, Sriperumbudur – If you are a fan of Japanese food, stop at the hotel’s Tokyo restaurant for a nice change. Their good tastes good and is quite hygienic for a highway restaurant. 

Route 2: Distance and Time taken from Bangalore to Chennai NH 75 and Vellore- Chennai route 

Bangalore to chennai distance via nh 75 and vellore- chennai route.

The route covers a distance of 333 km within 7 hours and the road condition is good. This route is preferred as a good alternative that crosses the quaint views and places like Chittoor and Kanchipuram. 

Bangalore to Chennai Road condition Via NH 75 and Vellore- Chennai route

The classic road map for this route is – 

Popular places along the way:

• Horsely Hills, Chittoor – Popularly known as Andhra Ooty, Horsely Hills makes for a perfect stop for some relaxation. One can also enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, swimming or archery. 
• Sri Venkateshwara Temple, Chittoor – This 12th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Balaji. Its beautiful architecture, gold plating and many waterfalls bring a lot of tourists.
• Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram – Dating back to the 2nd Century BC, this temple’s grand architecture is sure to make you want to return.
• Kailasnanthar Temple, Kanchipuram – When in Kanchipuram, missing out on this temple would be a shame. Built in the 8th Century era, the temple’s regal architecture is truly stunning. 

Popular places to eat along the way:

• Durga Sweets, Chittoor – Stop here to treat yourself to a fine variety of sweets. For lovers of sweets, this store is heavenly.
• Adyar Ananda Bhavan, Kanchipuram – Stop here for a delicious meal of piping hot sambhar with rice cakes and freshly made dosas

Bangalore to Chennai Best Route

While you can take any of the two routes, we recommend Route 1 Via Mumbai Highway. The road conditions are excellent and the time taken is less. However, it is advisable to check live traffic updates before leaving for your trip.

Other means of traveling from Bangalore to Chennai

How to reach chennai by flight.

Air travel is surely the fastest and most convenient way of travelling . All major cities in India are well connected through air routes. There are more than 4 Indian airlines that operate between Bangalore and Chennai. Every week, about 230 or more airlines are flying between Bangalore and Chennai. The travel duration is between 55 mins to 1 hour and a half depending upon the airline you choose. You can book a Chennai airport cab to have a hassle-free trip to your accommodation.

After your trip concludes and you plan to fly back to Bangalore, make sure to book a Bangalore airport taxi for a convenient and comfortable travel experience to your destination.

How to reach Chennai by Train?

The distance between Bangalore and Chennai is 362 km and can be easily covered in about six to seven hours depending upon a number of factors. This distance between the two cities can be covered by traveling by train. The efficient rail connectivity makes it easier to travel from one point to another and there are plenty of options to choose from. On a daily basis, 1 train runs between Bangalore and Chennai. On a weekly basis, the count shoots up to 25. The first train that leaves Bangalore and takes you to Chennai is 22602 Snsi Chennai Express. It departs from Bangalore at 03:35 AM and reaches Chennai at 09:40 AM. The last train that leaves Bangalore for Chennai is 15227 Muzaffarpur Express. It leaves at 23:55 PM and reaches the destination at 09:30 AM.

12028 Shatabdi Express is the fastest train that will take you from Bangalore to Chennai. It takes 5h 0m and leaves Bangalore at 06:00. The maximum duration of 9h 35m is taken by Muzaffarpur Express 15227. It departs from Bangalore at 23:55.

Out of all the trains that operate between Bangalore and Chennai,17 originate from Bangalore while the rest 9 pass from Bangalore. So you can  visit the Indian Railways website  for your Bangalore to Chennai train bookings, or choose your options from the multiple online portals.

Explore Chennai like a local

The country’s fourth largest city and the capital city of Tamil Nadu, Chennai as a city is so diverse that you may have to extend your stay to imbibe it all. Chennai’s magnificent past has left traces of history in every nook and corner, and we will help you discover it all. From historical ancient towns to exotic beaches, there are endless possibilities for long vacations or quick weekend getaways from Chennai, every few hundred miles. This comprehensive Chennai travel guide will help you make the most out of your trip.

Popular places for sightseeing in Chennai

• A visit to Chennai would be incomplete if you don’t visit Marina Beach . Apart from being the longest beach in India, Marina Beach offers a host of activities of which, karting is the most popular. Walk towards the north side of the beach for an amazing time karting on the beach with your friends. You can also visit the Light House which is now finally open to the public. 
• Try your hand at surfing at the Covelong beach . The best part about this beach is that it has a surf school to help you understand the basics of surfing. In case surfing is not your thing, you may try other water sports too.
• When in Chennai, the list of beaches is never-ending. One very important stopover is the Elliot beach . It is one of the cleanest beaches in Chennai and is perfect for a quiet walk in the evening. There are amazing eateries in and around the beach serving lip-smacking dishes to give you the best taste of Chennai.
• Head to Arignar Anna Zoological Park and Guindy National Park for a wildlife safari.
• Visit the Kapaleeswarar temple devoted to Lord Shiva and appreciate the architecture of the temple which is built in Dravidian style back in the 7th Century BC.
• Get out of the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to the peaceful Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary , home to over 100 species of birds including flamingos, egrets, herons, sandpipers, and many more. This is one of the most famous bird sanctuaries in India and the second-largest brackish water ecosystem in the country.
• Finally, for some shopping time, Thyagaraya Nagar , popularly known as simply T. Nagar is the place to be. You get everything under the sun here be it jewellery, fabrics, handicrafts, clothing, or food.

[Also read: Guide to Chennai’s beaches: Tourist attractions for all travellers ]

Savaari Recommends: Popular Places to eat in Chennai

• Chinese and Thai – Robot
• Italian and Continental – Amelies Cafe and Creamery
• North Indian – Royal Indiana, Animal Kingdom, Once Upon a Time, Pind 
• Multi-cuisine – Lobby Cafe 
• Russian and Continental – Winter Palace 
• South Indian – Annalakshmi Restaurant 

Hotels and resorts – Accommodation in Chennai

Nearby road trip from chennai.

These destinations offer a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and a relaxing getaway from the bustling city life in Chennai. Check out the  best road trips you can embark on for a quick weekend getaway from Chennai.

Download our Savaari cab Booking app for exclusive offers on the Bangalore to Chennai route . Have a smooth and pleasant journey.

Bangalore to Chennai Highway News

• Chennai-Bengaluru National Highway: Why it’s work-in-slow-progress
• Bengaluru-Chennai expressway to cut travel time to 2.5 hours
• Bengaluru to Chennai in 2.5 hrs; Why Bangalore-Chennai Expressway is a Game Changer for South India
• Chennai-Bengaluru expressway: 14km road work complete

Chennai Metro Train Timings Monday To Saturday

MRTS Means : Mass Rapid Transit System The Chennai Mass Rapid Transit System, a state-owned subsidiary of Indian Railways, is a metropolitan elevated railway line operated by Southern Railways. It is the first elevated railway line in India. Although it is segregated from the Chennai Suburban Railway, they both are operated by Southern Railway and are integrated in a wider urban rail network.

Suburban train timings chennai MRTS train timings chennai details are collected from southern railway updated. we are providing dynamic search for Chennai local train timings.

• Chennai Beach to Velachery
• Chennai Beach to Tambaram
• Chennai Beach to Tiruttani
• Chennai Central to Sullurupeta
• Chengalpattu to Tambaram
• Sullurupeta to Chennai Central
• Tiruttani to Chennai Beach
• Tambaram to Chennai Beach
• Tambaram to Chengalpattu
• Tirumalpur to Chengalpattu
• Velachery to Chennai Beach
• Suburban Train Codes

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Delhi To Chennai Trains

10 festive special trains found from NZM, NDLS to MAS, TBM, MS

NZM MAS RAJDHANI # 12434

Departs on: W F S M T W T F S

MAS GARIB RATH # 12612

Departs on: M S M T W T F S

MAS DURONTO EXP # 12270

Departs on: T S S M T W T F S

TAMILNADU EXP # 12622

Departs on: S M T W T F S S M T W T F S

CDG MDU SF EXP # 12688

Departs on: M F S M T W T F S

GRAND TRUNK EXP # 12616

NZM CAPE SF EXP # 12642

Departs on: M S S M T W T F S

SMPARK KRNT EXP # 12652

Departs on: T T S M T W T F S

NDLS PDY SF EXP # 22404

Departs on: S S M T W T F S

ANDAMAN EXPRESS # 16032

Departs on: S W S S M T W T F S

COVID special trains from Delhi to Chennai

4 COVID special trains found from NDLS, AVS, NZM to MAS, MS

G T EXP SPL # 02616

QLN MS EXPRESS # 06102

NDLS MAS SPL # 02434

Departs on: M W T F S M T W T F S

MAS DURONTO SPL # 02270

Trains from Chennai to Delhi

Trains originating from Delhi

• 14044 GARHWAL EXPRESS 238 KM     Delhi ( 07:30 ) Kotdwara ( 14:25 )
• 14056 BRAHMPUTRA MAIL 2588 KM     Delhi ( 23:40 ) Dibrugarh ( 04:25 )
• 14519 KISAN EXPRESS 337 KM     Delhi ( 14:50 ) Bathinda ( 22:20 )
• 14556 DLI TANAKPUR EX 395 KM     Delhi ( 06:10 ) Tanakpur ( 17:00 )
• 14659 RUNICHA EXPRESS 921 KM     Delhi ( 17:35 ) Jaisalmer ( 11:55 )
• 54078 DLI BE PASSENGR 274 KM     Delhi ( 23:50 ) Bareilly ( 09:40 )
• 15956 BRAHMPUTRA MAIL 2588 KM     Delhi ( 23:40 ) Dibrugarh ( 04:25 )
• 04409 PNBE NDLS SPL 654 KM     Delhi ( 18:25 ) Katra ( 09:05 )
• 03484 BGP FESTVAL SPL 1458 KM     Delhi ( 21:40 ) Old Maldah ( 07:05 )
• 03414 MLDT FESTVAL SPL 1418 KM     Delhi ( 21:40 ) Old Maldah ( 07:05 )
• 04084 DLI KIR FEST SPL 1233 KM     Delhi ( 23:00 ) Katihar ( 22:00 )
• 04030 MFP FESTIVAL SPL 1050 KM     Delhi ( 13:45 ) Muzaffarpur ( 08:00 )
• 04412 Anand Vihar Terminal - Saharsa Special Fare Holi Special 1162 KM     Delhi ( 23:00 ) Saharsa ( 20:00 )
• 84412 SHC SUVIDHA SPL 1162 KM     Delhi ( 23:00 ) Saharsa ( 19:45 )
• 04519 KOAA NLDM SPL 337 KM     Delhi ( 14:00 ) Bathinda ( 21:15 )
• 05486 KIR FESTIVAL SPL 1282 KM     Delhi ( 05:30 ) Katihar ( 04:55 )
• 04507 DLI BTI EXP SPL 522 KM     Delhi ( 13:05 ) Fazilka ( 23:50 )
• 04731 DLI BTI SPL 337 KM     Delhi ( 14:00 ) Bathinda ( 21:15 )
• 04521 DLI UMB EXP SPL 262 KM     Delhi ( 13:10 ) Ambala ( 18:35 )
• 09416 GIMB BDTS SF SPL 934 KM     Delhi ( 14:20 ) Ahmedabad ( 04:35 )

Trains passing through Delhi

• 13007 U ABHATOOFAN EXP 414 KM     Delhi ( 20:36 ) Sri Ganganagar ( 07:10 )
• 13008 U A TOOFAN EXP 1553 KM     Delhi ( 07:10 ) Kalka ( 19:30 )
• 19023 FZR JANATA EXP 374 KM     Delhi ( 13:50 ) Firozpur ( 22:15 )
• 19024 FZR MMCT JANTA 1373 KM     Delhi ( 13:55 ) Mumbai ( 19:40 )
• 54767 SGNR TKJ PASS 3 KM     Delhi ( 08:52 ) New Delhi ( 09:08 )
• 54768 TKJ SGNR PASS 452 KM     Delhi ( 18:57 ) Sri Ganganagar ( 06:15 )
• 05910 AVADH ASSAM SPL 2497 KM     Delhi ( 07:50 ) Dibrugarh ( 15:55 )
• 02138 PUNJAB MAIL SPL 1544 KM     Delhi ( 05:15 ) Mumbai ( 07:35 )
• 04724 KALINDI EXP SPL 479 KM     Delhi ( 23:06 ) Kanpur ( 11:35 )
• 04723 KALINDI EXP SPL 109 KM     Delhi ( 06:01 ) Bhiwani ( 09:25 )
• 01449 LTT NGP SF SPL 659 KM     Delhi ( 21:41 ) Katra ( 10:40 )
• 01450 UHP JBP SPL 905 KM     Delhi ( 14:13 ) Jabalpur ( 06:00 )
• 05909 DBRG LGH EXPRESS 607 KM     Delhi ( 16:38 ) Lalgarh ( 04:10 )
• 04737 BNW TKJ EXP SPL 2 KM     Delhi ( 08:25 ) New Delhi ( 08:41 )
• 04738 TKJ BNW EXP SPL 109 KM     Delhi ( 19:27 ) Bhiwani ( 22:30 )
• 14738 Tilak Bridge - Bhiwani Express 109 KM     Delhi ( 19:27 ) Bhiwani ( 22:30 )
• 14737 Bhiwani - Tilak Bridge Express 2 KM     Delhi ( 08:25 ) New Delhi ( 08:41 )
• 14723 KALINDI EXPRESS 109 KM     Delhi ( 06:12 ) Bhiwani ( 09:05 )
• 14727 SGNR TKJ EXP 3 KM     Delhi ( 08:48 ) New Delhi ( 09:05 )
• 11450 SVDK JBP EXP 904 KM     Delhi ( 14:13 ) Jabalpur ( 04:45 )

Delhi to Chennai Trains - FAQs

How many trains run from delhi to chennai on a daily basis.

There are around 2 trains runs from Delhi to Chennai on a daily basis. The following trains start from Delhi to Chennai. GRAND TRUNK EXP (12616) , TAMILNADU EXP (12622) etc.

How many trains run from Delhi to Chennai on a weekly basis?

There are 8 weekly trains from Delhi to Chennai. Following trains are running from Delhi to Chennai on a weekly basis: MAS DURONTO EXP (12270) , NZM MAS RAJDHANI (12434) , MAS GARIB RATH (12612) , NZM CAPE SF EXP (12642) , SMPARK KRNT EXP (12652) etc.

When does the first train leaves from Delhi to Chennai?

The first train from Delhi to Chennai is NZM CAPE SF EXP (12642) , which leaves around 07:10.

When does the last train leaves from Delhi to Chennai?

The last train from Delhi to Chennai is NDLS PDY SF EXP (22404) , which leaves around 23:45.

How many Rajdhani trains originating from Delhi to Chennai?

There are 1 Rajdhani Trains originating from Delhi to Chennai. The list of train includes: 12434.

From which stations in Delhi you can board the train to Chennai?

Different stations where one can board the trains in Delhi are NEW DELHI (NDLS) , H NIZAMUDDIN (NZM) , OKHLA (OKA) , SHAKURBASTI (SSB) .

List the deboarding stations in Chennai from Delhi?

Different Stations where one can deboard the trains in Chennai are MGR CHENNAI CTL (MAS) , CHENNAI EGMORE (MS) , TAMBARAM (TBM) .

Suggest the travel time by train between Delhi to Chennai?

Travel time by train between Delhi to Chennai is 28h 45m.

How many Delhi to Chennai covid special trains are running currently?

Currently 4 Delhi to Chennai covid special trains are running.

How to order food in train?

Go to the MMT app on your mobile and click on Train & Buses icon> Food in Trains> Order Food> Enter your PNR and choose your food, pay online or COD and get the food delivered right at your seat.

How many railway stations are there in Delhi?

The number of railway stations in Delhi are 11.

How many railway stations are there in Chennai?

The number of railway stations in Chennai are 16.

What is the distance to travel from Delhi to Chennai by rail?

To travel from Delhi to Chennai by rail, the distance that needs to be covered is 2187 kms.

Which is the fastest train from Chennai to Delhi?

The fastest train from Chennai to Delhi is NZM MAS RAJDHANI.

What is the duration between Delhi to Chennai if travelled by train?

The train journey between Delhi to Chennai will take around 34:25 hrs.

What are Delhi to Chennai train timings?

10 trains run Delhi to Chennai, please find below their departure times: 12642 train (NZM CAPE SF EXP) - Departs at 07:10 hrs and running days ( Mon, Sat ) 22404 train (NDLS PDY SF EXP) - Departs at 23:45 hrs and running days ( Sun )

Routes from Delhi

• Delhi to Anantapur trains
• Delhi to Fakiragram trains
• Delhi to Raiganj trains
• Delhi to Sangli trains
• Delhi to Karbigwan trains
• Delhi to Berchha trains
• Delhi to Jamikunta trains
• Delhi to Katwa trains
• Delhi to Kurali trains
• Delhi to Gaya trains

Routes to Chennai

• Raigarh to Chennai trains
• Dharmapuri to Chennai trains
• Bela to Chennai trains
• Kolanukonda to Chennai trains
• Pandavagallu to Chennai trains
• Obedullaganj to Chennai trains
• Parashshala to Chennai trains
• Tiruppattur to Chennai trains
• Castle Rock to Chennai trains
• Ankorah Akorha to Chennai trains

Top train routes in India

• Agra to Kudra trains
• Anantapur to Puri trains
• Ankorah Akorha to Firozabad trains
• Annavaram to Palghat trains
• Bihiya to Chausa trains
• Chakarbhatha to Dharuadihi trains
• Chengannur to Shoranur trains
• Faridabad to Patharia trains
• Firozabad to Karnal trains
• Gaya to Harda trains
• Hindupur to Vinukonda trains
• Jamnagar to Lilapur trains
• Kasimkota to Navabpalem trains
• Khurai to Bakhleta trains
• Laksar to Gomoh trains
• Lonavala to Angamali trains
• Miranpur Katra to Bundki trains
• Modpur to Bhavnagar trains
• NGHW to Kodi trains
• PENCHARTHAL to Salchapra trains

Routes from Chennai

• Delhi to Diphu trains
• Delhi to Pakala trains
• Delhi to Mandya trains
• Delhi to Maunath Bhanjan trains
• Delhi to Anand Nagar trains
• Delhi to Kandukur trains
• Delhi to Jamalpur trains
• Delhi to Khagaria trains
• Delhi to PAVURCHUTRAM trains
• Delhi to Khurunti trains

Routes to Delhi

• Babina to Chennai trains
• Ren to Chennai trains
• Chakradharpur to Chennai trains
• Araut to Chennai trains
• Pahrawar to Chennai trains
• Kaluwas to Chennai trains
• Chopan to Chennai trains
• Chitrakot to Chennai trains
• Pakala to Chennai trains
• Malhipur to Chennai trains

Railway stations in Delhi

• DAZ DELHI AZADPUR
• DKZ DELHI KISHANGNJ
• DSA DELHI SHAHDARA
• DSB SADAR BAZAR
• NDLS NEW DELHI
• NZM H NIZAMUDDIN
• SSB SHAKURBASTI
• SZM SUBZI MANDI

Railway stations in Chennai

• ABU AMBATTUR
• BBQ BASIN BRIDGE JN
• CEN Chennai Railway Station
• KOK KORUKKUPET JN
• MAS MGR CHENNAI CTL
• MASJ Madras Railway Station
• MBM MAMBALAM
• MS CHENNAI EGMORE
• MSB CHENNAI BEACH
• RPM ROYAPURAM
• STM ST THOMAS MOUNT
• TBM TAMBARAM
• TNP TONDIARPET
• VLK VILLIVAKKAM
• WST WASHERMANPET

Live status for Trains From Delhi

• 14044 Live Train Status
• 14056 Live Train Status
• 14519 Live Train Status
• 14556 Live Train Status
• 14659 Live Train Status
• 54078 Live Train Status
• 15956 Live Train Status
• 04409 Live Train Status
• 03484 Live Train Status
• 03414 Live Train Status

Live status for Trains To Chennai

• 02841 Live Train Status
• 06057 Live Train Status
• 06060 Live Train Status
• 06337 Live Train Status
• 11073 Live Train Status
• 12291 Live Train Status
• 12692 Live Train Status
• 19420 Live Train Status
• 20602 Live Train Status
• 22206 Live Train Status

Railway stations near by Delhi

• MDGR MANENDRAGARH
• STNL SATNALI
• ZP ZERPUR PALI
• DZB DAHINA ZAINABAD
• NNU NANGAL MUNDI
• BDHP BHUDPUR
• KGBS KISHENGARH BLWS
• KNNK KANINA KHAS
• SDRA SUDHRANA

Railway stations near by Chennai

• CJ KANCHIPURAM
• TMLP TIRUMALPUR
• WJ WALAJABAD
• BUM BOMMASAMUDRAM
• CGL CHENGALPATTU
• SKL SINGAPERUMLKOIL
• CTM KATTANGULATTUR
• VDR VANDALUR
• YTG YESHWANTNAGAR

Near by Cities

• MAHENDRAGARH
• KANCHIPURAM

Cabs from Delhi

• Delhi to Gulmarg Cabs
• Delhi to Dharmapuri Cabs
• Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park Cabs
• Delhi to Govardhan Cabs
• Delhi to Arrah Cabs
• Delhi to Kothagudem Cabs
• Delhi to Orai Cabs
• Delhi to Bulandshahr Cabs
• Delhi to Hathras Cabs
• Delhi to Sambhal Cabs

Cabs to Chennai

• Chengalpattu to Chennai Cabs
• Asansol to Chennai Cabs
• Vijayawada to Chennai Cabs
• Kodaikanal to Chennai Cabs
• Mettupalayam to Chennai Cabs
• Shillong to Chennai Cabs
• Panruti to Chennai Cabs
• Tirupattur to Chennai Cabs
• Ariyalur to Chennai Cabs
• Chandragiri to Chennai Cabs

Buses from Delhi

• Delhi to Mandsaur Buses
• Delhi to Kamrej Buses
• Delhi to Bharuch Buses
• Delhi to Gandhidham Buses
• Delhi to Darbhanga Buses
• Delhi to Kanpur Buses
• Delhi to Madhubani Buses
• Delhi to Kishanganj Buses
• Delhi to Bhilwara Buses
• Delhi to Karnal Buses

Buses to Chennai

• S.P. Pattinam to Chennai Buses
• Eral to Chennai Buses
• Melur to Chennai Buses
• Mullakadu (Tamil Nadu) to Chennai Buses
• Devarkulam to Chennai Buses
• Adirampattinam to Chennai Buses
• Panavadali Chatram to Chennai Buses
• Manamelkudi to Chennai Buses
• Bhavani to Chennai Buses
• Thisayanvilai to Chennai Buses
• Hotels in Delhi
• Budget hotels in Delhi
• 5 Star hotels in Delhi
• Resorts in Delhi
• Hostels in Delhi
• Farm Houses in Delhi
• Villas in Delhi
• Guest Houses in Delhi
• Apart-hotels in Delhi
• Apartments in Delhi
• Homestays in Delhi
• Cottages in Delhi
• Holiday Homes in Delhi
• Lodge in Delhi
• The Lodhi:A member of The Leading Hotels Of The World
• JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity
• The Oberoi New Delhi
• Shangri-La Eros New Delhi
• The Leela Palace New Delhi
• The Roseate
• Taj Mahal, New Delhi
• The Imperial New Delhi
• Le Meridien Delhi
• 4 Star hotels in Delhi
• 3 Star hotels in Delhi
• Hotels in Chennai
• Budget hotels in Chennai
• 5 Star hotels in Chennai
• Resorts in Chennai
• Hostels in Chennai
• Villas in Chennai
• Guest Houses in Chennai
• Apart-hotels in Chennai
• Apartments in Chennai
• Homestays in Chennai
• Cottages in Chennai
• Holiday Homes in Chennai
• Lodge in Chennai
• Taj Fisherman's Cove Resort & Spa, Chennai
• Taj Connemara, Chennai
• Taj Coromandel, Chennai
• Park Hyatt Chennai
• 4 Star hotels in Chennai
• 3 Star hotels in Chennai
• 2 Star hotels in Chennai
• 1 Star hotels in Chennai
• Luxury hotels in Chennai
• Best Hotels in Chennai

Explore more in Delhi

• Places to Visit in Delhi
• Tourist Places in Delhi
• Best Restaurants in Delhi
• Historical Places in Delhi
• Museums in Delhi

Explore more in Chennai

• Places to Visit in Chennai
• Tourist Places in Chennai
• Best Restaurants in Chennai
• Beaches in Chennai
• Shopping Places in Chennai

चेन्नई के लिए रूट्स

• पाली से चेन्नई की ट्रेन
• Barpeta से चेन्नई की ट्रेन
• कटवा से चेन्नई की ट्रेन
• पेरंबलूर से चेन्नई की ट्रेन
• सिगडाम से चेन्नई की ट्रेन

दिल्ली से रूट्स

• दिल्ली से कसारा की ट्रेन
• दिल्ली से Dima Hasao की ट्रेन
• दिल्ली से Firozpur Baghpat की ट्रेन
• दिल्ली से Agori Khas की ट्रेन
• दिल्ली से सीकर की ट्रेन

More about Delhi to Chennai route

Want to travel from Delhi to Chennai? Know about the trains running on this route. Some of the trains that run on this route are Hwh MAS DURONTO EXP (12270),NZM MAS RAJDHANI (12434),MAS GARIB RATH (12612),GRAND TRUNK EXP (12616) etc. If you’re travelling, you can board the train from the following stations - NEW DELHI (NDLS) , H NIZAMUDDIN (NZM) , OKHLA (OKA) , SHAKURBASTI (SSB) . Time taken by different trains is approximately 28h 45m to 43h 55m. Choose your train according to your suitability from trains that run on daily basis like GRAND TRUNK EXP (12616) , TAMILNADU EXP (12622) etc. You can also select train which are running on weekly basis MAS DURONTO EXP (12270) , NZM MAS RAJDHANI (12434) , MAS GARIB RATH (12612) , NZM CAPE SF EXP (12642) , SMPARK KRNT EXP (12652) etc. You can check live train running status , tatkal train tickets and PNR status on MakeMyTrip app and website. Choose MMT for the best Delhi to Chennai train ticket price. Before booking your train, get all the important info about the route as well as the Delhi to Chennai train fare Also, benefit from Trip Guarantee if your booking is still in the waitlist.

Bengaluru & Tiruchy new routes for TN’s exotic animal smugglers

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu smugglers who bring in exotic wildlife species from Thailand and Malaysia to India through Chennai international airport have started using Bengaluru and Tiruchy airports as well due to greater vigil by Chennai Customs, said multiple sources and official data.

Officials are investigating the business links between Chennai smugglers and traders in Bengaluru who illegally sell the animals via social media and supply these to pet shops and zoos. The exotic species are in hot demand and are sold for several lakhs, especially to the affluent ‘pet lovers’ in Bengaluru, sources said.

Chennai Customs have regularly been seizing exotic animals like non-native snakes (ball pythons, horn-pit viper), iguanas, and monkeys (marmosets) from Bangkok passengers since 2019; data shows in 2022-2023 and 2023-24, the number of seizures was 13 and 18, respectively.

However, Bengaluru Airport Customs had zero seizures in 2019-20, 2020-21, and 2021-22. As per official data, one seizure was recorded the next year, at least four in 2023-24, and two more later, all from passengers arriving in two specific flights at around 11pm and 12am. This is similar to the seizures at Chennai, mostly from passengers who arrive in midnight flights.

Sources in Chennai Customs said tighter vigil in the city has forced smugglers to think of new airports through which they can take the contraband. Pointing to a case in August 2023, where 47 pythons and two lizards were seized from a man who landed from Malaysia at Tiruchy, a source said this indicates smugglers moving to this airport too.

Travel time from Bangkok to Chennai/Bengaluru/ Tiruchy is almost the same. This is a key factor as the animals, stuffed inside a perforated check-in baggage with chocolate wrappers or soft toys, may die if the flight time is longer.

“Usually, the carriers are passengers from coastal districts,” said a source at the Bengaluru airport, citing a case in August 2023, where a Ramanathapuram man landed from Bangkok with cobras, baby crocodiles, lizards, tortoises, and a baby Kangaroo.

Chennai sources said they have gathered evidence on city smugglers sending exotic animals, including the deadly caiman and cobras, to pet dealers in Bengaluru even through public transport. Investigators in both the cities have identified dealers on social media, where potential buyers are enticed through photos of these animals, sources said.

Sources also pointed to a 2023 case where the arrest of three smugglers at Bengaluru airport led the revenue intelligence team to a Chennai house where 135 wild animals were found.

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Facial recognition tech, DigiYatra, in Chennai airport likely from June

C HENNAI: Chennai will be one among the 14 airports in the country where DigiYatra will be rolled out next month, said Suresh Khadakbhavi, chief executive officer (CEO) of DigiYatra Foundation.

The system, powered by facial recognition technology, will reduce wait time for passengers during entry to the airport and security checks. DigiYatra was planned to be launched in Chennai on March 31 but was delayed due to the pending approval from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).

“DigiYatra has seen impressive adoption and expansion over the last year, with more than 20 million users experiencing the benefits of this seamless travel solution. Currently rolled out in 14 airports, DigiYatra is set to be introduced in 14 more airports next month,” said Khadakbhavi at the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh recently, according to a release by the foundation.

“Our focus is now expanding to international travel, starting with prototype testing on e-passport based enrollment, expected next month. There will be numerous deliberations that need to be done with various ministries and other stakeholders, which might take some time to conclude on the way forward,” he added.

Around 50% passengers in the selected airports of India use DigiYatra and the adoption rate is around 30-40% at most big airports, said Khadakbhavi.