How to get to Chennai

Chennai is a vibrant metropolis on the coast of the Bay of Bengal and the "cultural capital" of South India, where ancient traditions harmoniously coexist with modernity. If you are planning to travel to Chennai, you will discover that this city serves as a key transport hub for the region with excellent accessibility for tourists. Thanks to its developed infrastructure, the question of how to get to Chennai—whether by international flight, train, or bus—is resolved easily and conveniently.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is by air. Tourists are served by the dedicated Chennai International Airport (MAA), which is one of the largest aviation hubs in India. Regular flights arrive here from all over the world, including routes from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, alongside numerous domestic connections.

Flying directly into Chennai saves travelers from the need to navigate complex transfers. The airport is located within the metropolis limits, making logistics incredibly convenient: you can reach your hotel or central attractions from the terminal in a short time via metro, taxi, or suburban train.

For those who prefer ground transport, Chennai is an ideal destination. The city serves as the headquarters of the Southern Railway and is considered one of the key transport nodes for all of India. Tracks lead here from practically every corner of the country, making train travel a convenient and popular option among travelers.

Two main terminals operate in the metropolis. The majestic Chennai Central station is not just a transport hub but also an architectural landmark of the colonial era; trains from northern and western regions, including expresses from the capital, arrive here. The second important station, Chennai Egmore, receives the majority of trains coming from the southern states.

Thanks to regular services and the availability of modern high-speed expresses, reaching the coast is comfortable. Both stations are excellently integrated into the city's transport network, so after stepping off the carriage, you will easily find a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or metro station to quickly get to your hotel.

A bus journey to Chennai is an excellent way to see the picturesque landscapes of Tamil Nadu, especially if you choose the route along the famous East Coast Road. The trip from colorful Puducherry, spanning about 150 kilometers, takes an average of 3–4 hours and gifts travelers with unforgettable views of the ocean right from the window of a comfortable coach.

Routes from important spiritual and administrative centers of the region, connecting the state capital with neighboring areas, are equally in demand. The road from the pilgrimage city of Tirumala (about 160 km) takes around 4 hours, while the journey from the city of Kadapa, located 260 kilometers away, requires about 6 hours. Most intercity buses arrive at the grand CMBT bus terminal, which is considered one of the largest in Asia and ensures convenient transfers to city transport.

Traveling by car to Chennai can be a true adventure, particularly if you are setting off from Puducherry via the famous East Coast Road. This scenic route, stretching about 150 kilometers, runs along the Bay of Bengal and takes just over three hours, allowing you to enjoy seascapes right from your window. The cost of a taxi trip on this route usually starts from 3,000–3,500 rupees, making a private transfer a very popular choice among tourists.

Many travelers also arrive by car from the sacred city of Tirumala; the 160-kilometer road takes about four hours and winds through beautiful hilly landscapes. If you are driving from the city of Kadapa, expect to spend between five to six hours on the road to cover the distance of 260 kilometers. The quality of the surface on the main highways leading to the state capital is quite high, so the drive is comfortable and stress-free.

A trip to Chennai promises to be vibrant and memorable, but for maximum comfort, it is worth considering a few important nuances. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations that will help you adapt faster in this dynamic metropolis of India and avoid common tourist mistakes.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate in the city is hot and humid year-round, so opt for loose clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Chennai is quite conservative: both women and men are recommended to dress modestly, avoiding very short shorts and exposed shoulders, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
2. Transport: To move around the city, it is most convenient to use the metro, which allows you to avoid the famous traffic jams, or official taxi apps (Uber, Ola). If you decide to use the ubiquitous auto-rickshaws ("tuk-tuks"), be sure to agree on the price of the trip in advance or ask to turn on the meter, although drivers often refuse to do so.
3. Finances: Major shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants accept bank cards without issues, but for markets, small shops, and transport, you will need cash rupees. It is better to exchange money at official banks or withdraw from ATMs, avoiding street money changers.
4. Health and Safety: Drink exclusively bottled water and check the seal integrity when purchasing. Chennai is considered a capital of medical tourism with excellent hospitals, but having medical insurance is mandatory. It is also recommended to use repellents to protect against mosquitoes.
5. Communication: The main language of the state is Tamil, and locals greatly appreciate it if you learn a couple of words, for example, the greeting "Vanakkam". However, English is much more widely spoken here than in the north of the country, so you will not encounter communication problems in tourist areas.
6. Local Etiquette: When entering any temple or private home, be sure to remove your shoes. Remember that the left hand is considered "unclean": passing money, accepting gifts, or eating (if you are eating with your hands) should be done only with the right hand.
7. What to Avoid: Refrain from public displays of affection (hugs and kisses), as in traditional society this may cause disapproval. Also, try not to photograph locals, especially women, without their prior permission.
8. Extra Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to try authentic "South Indian Filter Coffee". This is a cult drink of the region, served in special metal tumblers called "dabara", and its preparation method is a true art.

Following these simple rules will make your holiday safe and peaceful. Enjoy the colorful hospitality of Tamil Nadu and discover the unique atmosphere of the city without unnecessary worries.