Chennai International Airport (MAA)
Chennai International Airport is an international airport serving the city of Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, India.
- Distance to downtown
- 16.1 km
- Typical drive time
- Approx. 12 min
- Terminals
- 4
Flights to Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Explore Chennai, India, where local culture meets regional scenery.
Tamil NaduIndia Standard TimeMAA
- Best round-trip fare
- $948.00
- Nonstop from
- 65
- Best time to visit
- Jan, Feb, Mar
- Updated
- 2026-10-28
Chennai travel overview
Chennai is located in India (region code: IN-TN) and is served by candidate airport code(s) MAA. Visitors can explore Chennai's town center, local markets, cultural sites, and surrounding regional landscapes.
- State
- Tamil Nadu
- Population
- 7,088,000 (2022)
- Time zone
- India Standard Time
- Average stay
- 2–3 days
- Nearest airport
- Chennai International Airport (MAA)
- Straight-line distance
- 16.1 km
Popular flights to Chennai
Find the most popular routes to Chennai, with flight times, airlines and typical prices.
| From | Flight time | Airlines(main) | Weekly flights | From price | Route |
|---|
Airports serving Chennai
Candidate airport code(s) associated with Chennai include MAA; verify your ticket's IATA code and ground transport links to central Chennai.
Best time to visit Chennai
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Average temperature and rainfall
High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (in)
Recommended months
January – March
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Seasons
WinterNo data
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SpringNo data
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SummerNo data
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AutumnNo data
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Top things to do in Chennai
Landmarks, outdoor escapes and local culture for your Chennai itinerary.
Chennai Central Historic Quarter and Civic Plaza
Explore the central civic plaza, local heritage buildings, and community museums of Chennai in India (IN-TN).
Chennai city transport
Compare practical ways to travel from the airport and around the city.
| Transport | Best for | Time to downtown | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAA Airport to Central Chennai Ground Transfer | Travelers arriving or departing Chennai via MAA | 15–50 min | INR 30–800 · estimated one-way airport-to-town; see cost notes · as of 2026-10-20 · Reference estimate (as of 2026-10-20): 15–50 minutes one-way between MAA and central Chennai; from INR 30.0 per person by public transit up to INR 800.0 per vehicle by taxi. Original charging basis: one-way MAA to central Chennai: public bus per person vs taxi per car in INR. |
Where to stay in Chennai
When staying in Chennai, consider central town districts or areas near main transport corridors and MAA airport connections.
Central Chennai and Transport Hub Area
Centered around Chennai's main commercial streets and transport links, offering convenient access to dining, services, and transfers to MAA.
Chennai trip planning
Spend your first day exploring central Chennai, local museums, and markets, and dedicate a second day to nearby nature trails or regional landmarks.
- Daily budget
- INR 3500–9000 · estimated per person/day in INR; local stay, meals & transit · 2026-10-20 · Reference estimate (as of 2026-10-20): expect about INR 3500–9000 per person/day for budget-to-midrange lodging, meals, and local transit in Chennai (in local currency INR, excluding flights).
- Local time
- No data
- Tipping
- In India, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5–10% for good restaurant service is a common courtesy; check bills for included service charges.
- Power outlets
- Carry a universal travel adapter and check voltage compatibility (typically 220–240 V or local standard) when visiting Chennai, India.
- Accessibility
- Main terminal facilities at MAA and modern buildings in Chennai generally provide basic accessible access, while older streets or rural trails may have uneven surfaces.
- Suggested stay
- 2–3 days
Explore more destinations
Continue planning with cities near Chennai.
Popular routes from Chennai
Allow ample buffer time for ground transfers to MAA airport or intercity rail/bus terminals when departing Chennai.
Frequently asked questions about Chennai
Which airport codes and payment preparations should I note when visiting Chennai, India?
Chennai is associated with candidate airport code(s) MAA; local transactions use INR, so carry both a major payment card and some INR cash for local transit and markets.