Some travelers have recommended taking the metro from Chennai Airport to Koyambedu Bus Stand and then catching a PRTC or Volvo AC bus to Pondicherry. The bus service is frequent, with Volvo AC buses available every hour from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

According to forum posts, travelers can hire a taxi directly from the airport with a starting fare of around ₹1584 for a one-way trip to Pondicherry. Some travelers have also suggested renting a car for more flexibility; options like Zoom Car allow for self-drive from Chennai to various destinations.

For trips to nearby cities like Kanchipuram, travelers have mentioned that there is a direct suburban train service available from Tirusulam Station, located opposite the airport, with departures at specific times such as 07:40 am and 07:55 am.

From the posts, it is evident that there is no direct bus service from Chennai Airport to major destinations like Pondicherry. Travelers typically need to transfer at a major bus terminal such as CMBT or Perungalathur to catch onward buses.

For intra-city transfers or short trips, options like auto-rickshaws and Ola/Uber are readily available at the airport, providing connection to the city center or nearby transit points like Chennai Central Station.

According to forum posts, preferred locations for staying in Chennai include T. Nagar, Mylapore, and close to the city's major shopping malls. Several users have suggested staying around areas that facilitate easy access to local attractions and shopping centers.

Some travelers recommended specific hotels based on budget and location. Hotel Maris near Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai was mentioned for its proximity to shopping centers like Citicenter and Express Avenue Mall. Budget-conscious travelers have recommended Design Hotel Chennai by juSTa and various options in Egmore, T. Nagar, and Mylapore depending on individual budget and taste.

For those seeking luxury accommodations, forum participants frequently mentioned the Taj Coromandel and Taj Connemara, noting their central locations and proximity to shopping and cultural sites. The ITC Grand Chola was also recommended for its superior dining options, although it is less central.

For mid-priced options, travelers have called out The Clarion and Hotel Shelter. These hotels provide good value, offering clean and spacious rooms while being situated near local attractions and amenities.

For longer stays or those needing more space, serviced apartments like Hanu Reddy Residences in Poes Garden and Citadines OMR Chennai were highly rated by visitors for their quality and convenience.

According to forum posts, tourists interested in history and culture are recommended to visit landmarks such as the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and San Thome Basilica. The Government Museum in Egmore is also suggested for those interested in the arts and history.

Travelers have called out vibrant shopping experiences in areas like T. Nagar and Sowcarpet, which offer a bustling atmosphere with a variety of goods. For an authentic local experience, visiting Parrys Corner is recommended for its sensory overload of colors, noise, and crowds.

Some travelers said Marina Beach is a notable spot, particularly for its length and the availability of a lighthouse climb that provides panoramic views. However, it is noted that the beach can get very crowded, especially during holidays.

For many users, experiencing local arts is a highlight, with recommendations for attending Carnatic music concerts and Bharatanatyam dance recitals, which can be found in local event listings, particularly during the peak season in December.

According to forum posts, Chennai experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year. May is noted as the hottest month, with temperatures peaking around 34°C during the day and 27°C at night, with high humidity levels often exceeding 70%.

Travelers have called out that from July to August, Chennai encounters a monsoon season. While heavy rainfall is rare, occasional drizzles and light showers can be expected during this period. The likelihood of floods is minimal, making travel relatively safe.

Some users mentioned that compared to New Delhi, Chennai's weather in June is slightly cooler but still reaches up to 40°C. Although the temperature might seem marginally lower than in Delhi, the high humidity in Chennai can make it feel much more uncomfortable.

For many users, early December is considered the best time to visit due to more pleasant weather, which includes cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

According to forum posts, there are currently no SIM card kiosks available at Chennai International Airport. Many travelers have reported the absence of such facilities, which may necessitate purchasing a SIM card in the city.

Travelers have suggested purchasing SIM cards from local shops in the city, such as Poorvika mobile shop. Specific requirements for buying a SIM include having a valid visa, reference members' mobile numbers, and sometimes passport photos. Some users recommended specific vendors in T Nagar who provided efficient service without the typical documentation hassle.

For many users, hotel concierge services or contacts provided by tour operators have been helpful in acquiring SIM cards. This option may include a service fee but is noted for its convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with local procedures.