Chennai (Madras)

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Why visit Chennai (Madras)

If you have time to explore Chennai (formerly Madras), this 284-sq-mi (400-sq-km) conglomerate of urban villages and diverse neighborhoods making up Tamil Nadu's capital will pleasantly surprise you. Its role is as keeper of South Indian artistic, religious and culinary traditions.

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Best of Northwest India: Rajasthan in 15 Days

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  1. 1 Standing before Agra's world-famous Taj Mahal in morning twilight before the crowds descend
  2. 2 Visiting historic landmarks, from the Hawa Mahal to Govind Ji Temple, in Jaipur's "Pink City"
  3. 3 Taking a sunset cruise through Udaipur's Lake Pichola
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    India: A 13-day Culinary Adventure to Kerala

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Top places to visit in Chennai (Madras)

Discover the best attractions in Chennai (Madras) from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

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Chennai (Madras) travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Free Things to Do

From eye-popping temples to colorful markets, there's plenty to do in Chennai that won't cost you a rupee. Here are the top free things to do in Chennai.

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Day Trips

Fascinating, foodie Chennai is the gateway to India's steamy south. From ancient temples to burgeoning surf hubs, here are 6 great day trips from Chennai.

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