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Chennai Travel Checklist

Chennai Travel Checklist

Chennai Tamil Nadu, India Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A timeline to organize your travel arrangements smoothly.

Your Pre-Travel Timeline

Follow these steps to ensure a stress-free departure.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

Check validity; 6 months beyond stay.

Visa Application

Research and apply for the appropriate Indian visa.

Health Consultation

Consult your doctor for vaccinations.

2

-2 Months Before

Internal Travel Bookings

Book train tickets or domestic flights early.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Document Copies

Make physical and digital copies of all important documents.

3

-4 Weeks Before & 1 Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flights, hotels, and tours.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid blocks.

Home Arrangements

Arrange for mail, plants, and pet care.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items early to avoid disappointment.

Reservations

  • Flights, especially international ones.
  • Hotels, notably during high season or festival periods.
  • Long-distance train tickets, which often sell out quickly.
  • Any specific tours or experiences with limited availability.

Pre-trip Research Recommendations

Beyond this guide, explore specific attractions or cultural aspects that interest you.

Recommended Reading

  • Read travel blogs for current insights.
  • Watch documentaries for visual context.
  • Explore online forums for traveler tips.
  • Gain more insights into Chennai's unique character.

Home Preparation Before Departure

These steps ensure a peaceful departure from your home.

Secure Your Home

  • Ensure all windows are locked.
  • Secure all exterior doors.
  • Activate any home security systems.
  • Remove any spare keys from hidden spots.

Mail, Plants, & Pets

  • Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
  • Organize watering for your plants.
  • Ensure pet care is confirmed.
  • Leave clear instructions for caregivers.

Trusted Contacts

  • Inform trusted family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Share emergency contacts.
  • Leave a with a trusted person for emergencies.
  • Ensure they know how to reach you.

Travel Insurance Reminder

Protect your travel investment with a comprehensive policy from World Nomads.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you settle in smoothly upon arriving in Chennai.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs:

    Clear procedures at Chennai International Airport.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim:

    Locate and collect your baggage efficiently.

  • 3
    Meet Transfer:

    If arranged, find your driver at the designated meeting point.

Orientation Strategies

  • Local SIM Card:

    Get one at the airport or authorized store for local communication.

  • Airport Layout and Transport:

    Familiarize yourself with options for ground transportation.

  • Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases:

    Exchange a small amount or withdraw cash for immediate needs.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Pre-paid Taxis

Available at the airport for a fixed fare to your destination.

A reliable option upon arrival.

Ride-Hailing Apps

Utilize Ola/Uber for clear pricing and convenience.

Offers both cars and auto-rickshaws.

Chennai Metro

Connects the airport to various parts of the city.

A cost-effective and efficient method.

Packing Smarter

Maximize space and organization for your journey with products from Eagle Creek.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a stress-free end to your trip.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If purchasing large items, inquire about international shipping.
  • Be aware of potential customs duties in your home country.
  • India does not operate a general VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Pre-departure Timing Recommendations

  • International Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Trains/Buses: Arrive at the station 30-60 minutes prior.
  • Factor in potential traffic delays when traveling.

Return Trip Logistics

Ensure your final leg of the journey runs smoothly.

Reminders

  • Travel Documents:Easily Accessible
  • Baggage Allowance:Double-check Limits
  • Airport Transfer:Confirm Arrangements
  • Digital Copies:Have Scans Ready

Pre-Departure Tasks

  • Fully charge all electronic devices and power banks.
  • Download essential apps and offline maps of Chennai.
  • Acquire some small denomination Indian Rupees for immediate needs.
  • Review your prepared packing list one final time.

Essential Tip

Keep a small folder or digital file on your phone with scanned copies of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and hotel bookings.

This provides a backup in case you lose the originals.