Chennai City Guide

South Indian food dominates with dishes like Idli, Dosa, and Filter Coffee. International cuisines are widely available. Vegetarian and vegan options are easy to find. Late-night food is mostly near transport hubs and select cafes.

The nightlife is modest compared to other Indian cities, with pubs, bars, and lounges mainly in upscale areas like Nungambakkam and Mylapore.

Traditional South Indian filter coffee is central, with a growing number of third-wave cafes and specialty roasters.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. 5-10% in restaurants; rounding up fares for taxis; small tips for services like salons or delivery.

SIM cards from Airtel, Jio, Vi, and BSNL are available at the airport and official stores. eSIM setup is possible at airport counters. You'll need passport, visa copy, photo, and address proof for registration.

Cleanliness varies by area; main roads are generally clean but some parts face sanitation issues.

Many pharmacies open late or 24/7; convenience stores are common and some restaurants operate late.

Supermarkets like Reliance Fresh, More, Nilgiris, and DMart carry local and some international products. Local fresh markets are common. Shops usually open 9 AM to 9 or 10 PM, and most stay open Sundays. Bargaining is usual at fresh markets but not in supermarkets.

Digital payments via UPI, debit, and credit cards are widely accepted. Cash is better for very small vendors or markets.

ATMs from major banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank are plentiful. International cards may incur fees, so check with your bank.

Chennai has international schools like American International School and Gateway International, mainly teaching in English. Local schools use Tamil and English. Admissions open late autumn and popular schools often have waitlists.

Growing community with meetups on social media. Co-living and co-working spaces serve as hubs for networking.

Parks like Guindy National Park and Semmozhi Poonga offer green spaces with shaded walks and running paths.

Popular routes include Marina Beach promenade and parks like Guindy National Park. Generally safe during the day, with running groups and events available.

Plenty of gyms and fitness centers offer MMA, boxing, and various other training options.

Tennis courts at clubs and academies, mostly hard courts. Coaching and some equipment rental available.

Padel presence is limited but gradually emerging.

Many yoga studios offer various styles and meditation. Both drop-in and memberships are common, with English-speaking instructors.

Many schools teaching Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, BJJ, MMA, and traditional styles like Silambam. English instructions common.

No skiing facilities; Chennai is tropical and flat.

Offers surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, jetskiing, and more. Rentals and guided tours available, especially during Nov-Feb.

Surfing spots like Covelong and Mahabalipuram Beaches nearby. Warm water year-round, best surfing in Nov-Feb. Surf schools offer lessons and rentals.

Scuba and snorkeling available near Covelong and Mahabalipuram. Visibility is moderate with coral reefs and marine life. Dive shops provide gear and certification.

Private hospitals like Apollo, Fortis Malar, and MIOT offer good care with English-speaking staff. Public hospitals have longer wait times. Pharmacies are common and many open late or 24/7. Prescription required for most meds.

Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Use bottled or filtered water.

Numerous parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Marina Beach, Vandalur Zoo, and science museums.

Growing LGBTQ+ presence and annual Pride, though social acceptance is moderate. Some safe spaces and inclusive venues exist.

Mixed pet policies in accommodations and cafes. Veterinary services are good, but few dedicated pet parks.