Chennai guide
Packing List
What to pack for Chennai
In October, Chennai is typically cold, heavy rain (26-32°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
Chennai essentials
- Modest outfits that cover shoulders and knees for town and religious sites
- Swimwear for the resort or beach only, cover up in town
- Sarong or shawl for temple visits
Documents
- Photo ID
- Travel tickets (print + digital)
- Hotel booking confirmations
Clothing
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm insulated coat
- Thermal base layers
- Warm hat, gloves and scarf
- Warm socks
- Warm waterproof boots
- Light summer clothing
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Quick-dry footwear
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Lip balm and moisturiser for cold, dry air
- Insect / mosquito repellent
- After-sun lotion
- South Indian filter coffee and dosa culture. Chettinad cuisine is famous. Very hot spices.
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Some cash for incidentals
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Excellent 4G. Jio and Airtel best. 5G in select areas. eSIM works on Airtel.
- Autorickshaws refusing meters and quoting inflated fares — use Ola/Uber instead
Trip gear
- Waterproof dry bag for electronics