Direct flights to Chennai

India conjures up mystical memories, ancient rituals, a past steeped in myth and legend and a country of contrasting extremes. One visit to India is never enough and many, after their first tentative steps to this rich culture, cannot help but return time and time again, experiencing new areas and as such new friendships and memories.

Arriving in Chennai – find a direct flight

Chennai International Airport is India's third busiest hub in terms of passenger numbers, after the airports in Mumbai and Delhi. It is the major air transport facility for southern India, dealing with thousands of international passengers on a daily basis.

The majority of the direct connections with Chennai are domestic ones, but you can also find flights here from other parts of the world. In the list below we have gathered a number of popular routes to Chennai – follow the links to see more flight options.

• Direct flights from Mumbai (BOM) to Chennai (MAA)
• Direct flights from Singapore (SIN) to Chennai (MAA)
• Direct flights from Dubai (DXB) to Chennai (MAA)
• Direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Chennai (MAA)
• Direct flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Chennai (MAA)
• Direct flights from Bangkok (BKK) to Chennai (MAA)

The travel time into the center of Chennai from the airport is between 20 and 30 minutes, with a pre-paid taxi from the arrivals area being the recommended form of transport for new visitors. It is also possible to take the train into Chennai, as the Tirusulam railway station is located a short walk away from the airport.

Gateway to the South

Once they arrive in Chennai, holidaymakers will find they are visiting a place with a very different atmosphere to other bustling Indian cities such as Mumbai and Delhi.

Formerly known as Madras, it is the country's fourth largest urban center and the capital of the Tamil Nadu state. Chennai is often described as the gateway to South India and the city is characterized by a strong emphasis on Tamil culture and heritage, mixed with British influences. This unique blend of the traditional and modern is perhaps the most interesting aspect of the destination for many travelers, as Chennai is a place of sharp and sudden contrasts.

The city developed around the British settlement of Fort St George, which was established in 1644. Gradually, the surrounding towns and villages were absorbed to create what is now known as Chennai.

Top attractions of Chennai

Marina Beach is a highly popular spot for locals and tourists. This 13 km stretch of sand along the Bay of Bengal attracts thousands of visitors, particularly on sunny weekends. There are many shops and food stalls lining the expansive beachfront, as well plenty of opportunities for kite flying, beach cricket and other pastimes.

The ancient Kapaleeswarar temple, located in the Chennai suburb of Mylapore, offers a famous example of the Dravidian architectural style. It was built as a shrine to Shiva and is among the city's most recognisable landmarks, offering travelers a fascinating insight into the Hindu religion.

George Town, a historical neighborhood of Fort St George, features many bustling markets for travelers hoping to pick up a bargain from their trip.

Wildlife lovers may like to visit the Crocodile Bank, a breeding center and sanctuary for the endangered reptiles that covers an area of 3.2 hectares. It is one of the largest reptile zoos in the world, with crocodiles of six different species living here, as well as alligators and other reptiles. The Crocodile Bank is located about 40 km south of Chennai.

When to go to Chennai

The best time to visit Chennai is at any point between November and February, as the temperature is pleasant and the atmosphere benefits from a cool sea breeze. People will encounter more hot and humid weather at other times of the year.