Where to Stay

Hotels in Chennai, the gateway to south India, are less costly than in cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. It's possible to stay at a luxury hotel in Chennai. Mid range hotels also provide great value for money. And, if you want to try something different with a personal touch, choose a bed and breakfast! Here are some  of the Chennai hotels, with convenient central locations, for all budgets.

Luxury :  ITC Grand Chola

Opened in 2012 with a total of 600 rooms, including 78 luxury serviced apartments, the imposing ITC Grand Chola is one of India's largest hotels. And, it's guaranteed to wow you! As its name suggests, the hotel was designed and named after the traditional Hindu architecture of the Chola Dynasty. It's been built over three wings, and the array of facilities is impressive. They include 10 places to eat and drink, a huge health spa, three swimming pools and gymnasiums, a shopping arcade, and an art gallery containing pieces that reflect the hotel's theme, and convention center with a 30,000 square foot ballroom. The hotel is situated on Mount Road, about 20 minutes from the airport. Expect to pay around 11,00 rupees per night upwards, plus tax.

Luxury : Taj Connemara

 

Chennai's only heritage hotel, the luxury Taj Connemara is over 150 years old, and is a well known landmark in Chennai. The hotel has a very handy, central location right next to Spencer's Plaza shopping mall. Its setting is tranquil, with plenty of greenery and a swimming pool. You'll find it difficult to believe that you're right in the heart of the city! The hotel has a wonderful ambiance inside too, and is elegantly decorated with furniture that reflects its history. It has 148 rooms and suites. Rates start from about 6,000 rupees per night, plus tax.

Luxury :  The Raintree Hotel, St. Mary's Road

This older branch of The Raintree Hotel is conveniently located in Alwarpet, not far from Mylapore (Chennai's most happening cultural neighbourhood). The hotel is modern and ascetically designed, with the highlight being a huge reclining Buddha statue that graces its entrance. Staff are friendly and service is excellent. Other appealing features include the hotel's rooftop swimming pool and delicious restaurant with captivating views over the city. Oh, and it's eco-friendly as well! Rates start from 5,000 rupees per night for a double, plus tax.

Mid Range :  Savera Hotel

Savera Hotel is perhaps the most well known hotel in Mylapore. It's been there since 1968 and still remains popular. The hotel has been renovated, and is well-maintained and comfortable. Facilities include three restaurants, cake shop, café, two bars, spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool. There are 230 rooms and suites. It's possible to get a room for around 4,000 rupees per night, plus tax. Most guests agree that it's value for money.

Budget :  Bed & Breakfast Footprint

For those who prefer staying somewhere more intimate, Footprint Bed and Breakfast meets the criteria nicely and won't blow the budget! This modern bed and breakfast has nine rooms decorated in contemporary style, and is spotlessly clean. The hosts are also extremely gracious and helpful. The bed and breakfast occupies two floors of a residential apartment building, in a lovely neighborhood not far from Mylapore, Alwarpet and The Raintree Hotel. It's 30 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from the city center. Rooms cost 3,750 rupees plus tax per night, with breakfast included. A bonus is free wireless Internet in the rooms.

Budget : Hannu Reddy Residences, Wallace Garden

Situated in an upscale area in the heart of Chennai, Hanu Reddy Residences offers 12 well equipped and spacious serviced apartments in a lovely villa with leafy, tranquil surroundings. The staff are warm and welcoming, and go out of their way to take care of guests. Room service is available. There are a number of gourmet restaurants in the vicinity as well. Expect to pay around 3,200 rupees upwards, plus tax. Breakfast is included.