Chennai has a thorough selection of accommodation, with hotels in every price range. However, it's a good idea to shy away from budget offerings in Chennai, as some of these are well below even backpackers' standards. The range of mid-range and upmarket lodging available in the city really is spectacular, with a few iconic options that have been on the scene for generations.
Chennai is more of an economic boom town than a tourist destination, so many of the hotels found in the city are geared toward business travellers who are in the market for excellent service, plush rooms and thorough facilities. Chennai is also a regional convention hub, so don't be surprised if rooms fill up unexpectedly. If this happens, you've probably unwittingly arrived during a convention.
Where to StayCentral Chennai has the best concentration of accommodation options. Hotels in this area fall in the three- to five-star range. These include several high-profile luxury options that should not be overlooked. A few more five-star options are located immediately south of the city centre. These are conveniently close to the airport, making them even more attractive to business travellers. The selection of accommodation is slimmer west of the city, as most visitors - even those on business - would rather be close to the sea if given the option.
The quintessential Chennai hotel could very well be the Taj Connemara, in operation since the 19th century and with a rich colonial legacy. Elegant rooms have high ceilings and come with all the old-world trappings that are so hard to come by in today's hotel industry. Another popular accommodation option is the Park, India's favourite boutique hotel.
