Tamil Nadu, India
Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are major mobile network operators in India. Jio and Airtel generally offer the best coverage and speed in urban areas.
Wi-Fi is widely available and generally reliable in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Many public places offer free Wi-Fi.
Tamil is the official language of Tamil Nadu. English is widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas and by educated professionals.
Services designed to enhance your airport experience upon arrival or departure from Chennai.
For seamless communication, consider an eSIM and familiarise yourself with key phrases. Get an eSIM from Airalo or Rent a Solis Wi-Fi device.
Understand typical operating hours and holiday impacts for smooth travel planning.
Generally open from 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
Often open earlier (6:00 AM for produce) and close later (10:00 PM for street markets).
Breakfast from 7:00 AM, Lunch 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Dinner 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM.
Banks operate limited hours. ATMs are widely available for cash transactions.
National and state holidays impact services. Plan accordingly to avoid disruptions.
Check local holiday calendars before your visit, as services may be limited during these times.
Navigating Chennai with cultural awareness leads to richer interactions.
Greetings, dress code, and public behavior reflect cultural regard.
Always seek permission before capturing images of individuals.
Familiarise yourself with local dining customs for a smooth experience.
Be mindful of cultural sensitivities to avoid unintentional offense during your visit.
Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer. It comes in handy after handling cash, using public transport, or before meals, especially when water and soap are not readily available.
Chennai's urban infrastructure presents some challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
Chennai's infrastructure can present difficulties for those with mobility issues, as sidewalks are often uneven or crowded.
Some newer transportation options offer better accessibility for movement throughout the city.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.
Direct contact with hotels or tour operators is recommended to confirm specific accessibility features.
Hiring a private car with a driver often offers the most flexible and comfortable transportation option for those with mobility challenges.
