Chennai operates differently from Delhi, Mumbai, or Goa. This practical FAQ covers the specifics you need: how to get from the airport, what transport costs, whether you need a visa, how much to tip, and what safety looks like on the ground in Tamil Nadu’s capital.
Chennai Travel Tips and Frequently Asked Questions
Chennai Airports and Arrival Transport
Chennai International Airport (MAA) is located at Tirusulam, 18km southwest of the city center. It has two terminals: the international terminal (Kamaraj Terminal) and domestic terminal. They are connected by a walkway (5 minutes). The airport handles 22 million passengers annually with direct flights to London, Singapore, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, and major Indian cities. The prepaid taxi counter is outside the arrivals hall: a ride to Nungambakkam costs approximately 500 to 600 INR. Uber and Ola operate from designated pickup zones (follow signs to “App-based Ride Pickup”). The Chennai Metro Green Line connects the airport (Airport Station) to the city. A ride to Nungambakkam (via Alandur interchange to Blue Line) costs about 60 INR and takes 35 minutes. Metro operates 5am to 11pm. Avoid auto-rickshaws at the airport arrival zone as they routinely overcharge (600 to 800 INR for a trip that should cost 400 INR).
Getting Around Chennai
Chennai Metro
The Chennai Metro has two operational lines: the Blue Line (Airport to Wimco Nagar via Anna Salai) and the Green Line (St. Thomas Mount to Chennai Central). Fares range from 10 to 60 INR. Trains run 5am to 11pm with frequency of 5 to 12 minutes. The metro is air-conditioned, clean, and the most reliable way to cross the city. Key stations: Airport (MAA), Nandanam (for T. Nagar), Teynampet (for Nungambakkam), Chennai Central (for connecting to long-distance trains and the George Town neighborhood). Buy a stored-value card (100 INR deposit) at any station to avoid queues.
Auto-Rickshaws in Chennai
Chennai auto-rickshaw drivers rarely use meters despite meters being installed. Always negotiate the fare before getting in. Short trips (2km to 3km) cost 60 to 100 INR. Medium trips (5km to 8km) cost 150 to 250 INR. From the city center to ECR/Besant Nagar (15km to 18km) costs 300 to 400 INR. Ola Auto (booked via the Ola app) is cheaper and fare-transparent, typically 20% to 30% less than street-hailed autos. Uber Auto is also available.
Suburban Trains (MRTS)
The Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) runs an elevated line from Chennai Beach to Velachery, serving Thirumayilai (Mylapore), Thiruvanmiyur, and Taramani. Fares: 5 to 15 INR. Trains every 10 to 20 minutes. Useful for reaching the Marina Beach area (Chepauk or Lighthouse stations). The MRTS is the cheapest way to move along the coast. Trains can be crowded during rush hour.
Visa and Entry Requirements for Chennai
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India. The e-Visa system covers citizens of 166 countries and is the easiest option: apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 days before travel. The one-year e-Tourist Visa allows multiple entries and a continuous stay of 90 days per visit. Cost varies by nationality (typically 25 to 80 USD for the 30-day version, 40 to 100 USD for the one-year version). You must have a passport with 6 months validity and at least two blank pages. The e-Visa is accepted at Chennai Airport (MAA). Print a copy of the e-Visa approval; digital copies on phones are not accepted at immigration.
Money and Tipping in Chennai
India’s currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available in Chennai, particularly in Nungambakkam, T. Nagar, and Anna Salai. Withdrawal limits are typically 10,000 to 25,000 INR per transaction. Tipping is not mandatory but common. In restaurants with table service, tip 5% to 10% if service charge is not already included (check your bill for “Service Charge 5-10%”). In casual eateries and street stalls, no tip is expected. For hotel porters, 50 to 100 INR per bag. For taxi/auto drivers, round up the fare to the nearest 10 or 50 INR. Do not tip in US dollars or other foreign currencies.
Safety and Practical Advice for Chennai
Chennai is one of India’s safest large cities with lower rates of violent crime than Delhi or Mumbai. The most common issues for travelers are petty theft (phone snatching from moving autos in heavy traffic, keep your phone inside the vehicle) and overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers (use app-based booking). Women travelers should avoid isolated beaches after dark and use the women-only compartments on the metro and suburban trains (marked with pink signage). Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water (Bisleri, Kinley, Aquafina are reliable brands), sold at every street corner for 20 INR per liter. Check the seal before opening. Food hygiene at street stalls varies; stalls with high turnover at lunchtime (12pm to 2pm) are generally safest.
Suggested Hotels in Chennai
ITC Grand Chola
Chennai’s most architecturally ambitious luxury hotel, built as a modern tribute to the Chola dynasty with 600 rooms across three wings, a 10,000 sq ft spa, and seven restaurants including the Peshawri for North Indian frontier cuisine. Best for luxury travelers and special occasions with a hotel experience that rivals standalone attractions. Check rates and availability
The Park Chennai
A design-focused boutique hotel on Anna Salai with 214 rooms, a swimming pool, the Leather Bar nightclub, and the Lotus Thai restaurant. Its central location on Mount Road gives you easy Metro access to both the airport and city sights. Best for business travelers and nightlife fans who want a stylish, centrally located base. Check rates and availability
Hanu Reddy Residences
A family-run guesthouse in Wallace Garden with apartment-style rooms, kitchenettes, garden seating areas, and home-cooked South Indian breakfast included in the rate. It feels like staying in a Tamil home rather than a hotel, with the quiet, leafy neighborhood of Wallace Garden as your base. Best for solo travelers, couples, and long-stay visitors who want a residential experience. Check rates and availability
