Trains are a reliable and convenient way to travel around the city and can be a preferred option over taxis as roads are quite congested. There are two main long distance trains that connect Chennai to the nearby cities of Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore. Make sure you book your train tickets in advance if you are planning to visit any of them. The suburban network train service travels across the city. Buses are another option and ideal when travelling to Marina Beach.
Getting downtown
Flights to Chennai will take you to Chennai International Airport (MAA) which is located across the areas of Tirusulam, Meenambakkam and Pallavaram, around 10 miles (16 km) south-west of the city centre. Most travellers catch prepaid taxis to the city. Tirusulam train station is also located nearby, opposite the airport. Suburban trains from this station take passengers to Egmore in the city centre. The journey time is around 40 minutes in duration.
There are also bus services to the city, however the bus stops are located a considerable distance away from new airport terminals. You can also book airport transfers online in advance. Rental car desks are also situated throughout the airport.
Chennai airport overview
India’s third-biggest airport, Chennai International Airport is a wonderful access-point for travellers looking to explore India’s incredible southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Goa.
Flights to Chennai International are handled by a wealth of airlines, providing convenient connections to a wide array of both Indian and international destinations. For travellers flying into India from the east, it is definitely worth checking out Chennai flights, as they are often much cheaper than flights to Mumbai or Delhi.