Information about flights to Chennai
On India's South-western coast, where the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal lap against the shore, lies Chennai. Also known as Madras, Chennai is one of the most sought-after destinations in India. Book one of our flights to Chennai and enjoy everything this diverse, fascinating and friendly city has to offer.
Historic buildings
Built in 1644, Fort St George was India's first British stronghold. Its six-metre-high walls kept its inhabitants safe for the most part - it did pass into French hands during the middle of the 18th century for three years. Inside you'll find a museum housed within one of the fort's oldest surviving buildings. Three floors of exhibits include weaponry such as swords, pistols and mortars, as well as British Army uniforms and Madras officials' ceremonial dress There's a wealth of art pieces, intricately-decorated porcelain, coins, paintings and maps. You'll also see a large scale model of the fort as it looked during the 19th century.
Guindy National Park
Small but no less special, Guindy National Park features a select collection of animals such as the three-striped palm squirrel, the bonnet macaque and small Indian civet. The most important inhabitant is the blackbuck, a species of antelope that is facing a desperate fight against extinction. There are rare plants too, as well as an aquarium, a snake park and a children's play area.
Urban beach
Marina Beach is India's longest natural urban beach that consists of eight miles of golden sands stretching from St George Fort to Mahabalipuram. Perfect for long strolls, this strip of coastland has palm trees, a ten-metre tall man-made waterfall and statues dedicated to - among others - Mahatma Gandhi. Soak up the sun, play beach cricket or pit your wits against an opponent on the beach's giant chess board.
Shopping
Head to George Town for markets such as the Burma Bazaar. Here you can buy anything from trinkets and souvenirs to laptops and televisions. Chennai has three major shopping malls - Chennai City Centre, Express Avenue and Spencer Plaza. Between them you'll find the latest fashions, electrical gadgets and much more.
Eating and drinking
Dine on gorgeous South Indian cuisine at Dakshin where you can sample anything from coconut chutney and Chicken Chettinad to vegetarian thali. Finish off with coconut ice cream and a refreshing coffee. It's not the cheapest place to eat but it's certainly one of the best. At the classy Annalakshmi you'll enjoy great food - including a good vegetarian menu, friendly service and a décor adorned with paintings and carvings that add to the delightful ambience. Barbeque Nation also looks after both carnivores and herbivores and you can grill your own starter from the comfort of your chair. There's a terrific wine menu, the music is up-tempo, the atmosphere is relaxed and the service is attentive.
Eating and drinking
Dine on gorgeous South Indian cuisine at Dakshin where you can sample anything from coconut chutney and Chicken Chettinad to vegetarian thali. Finish off with coconut ice cream and a refreshing coffee. It's not the cheapest place to eat but it's certainly one of the best. At the classy Annalakshmi you'll enjoy great food - including a good vegetarian menu, friendly service and a décor adorned with paintings and carvings that add to the delightful ambience. Barbeque Nation also looks after both carnivores and herbivores and you can grill your own starter from the comfort of your chair. There's a terrific wine menu, the music is up-tempo, the atmosphere is relaxed and the service is attentive.
