Best Places to Visit Near Chennai Airport Before Your Next Flight!

Posted on Friday, July 4th, 2025 by Neha Sharma Leave a Comment

Layovers don’t have to be boring! If you have some free time and are flying into Chennai, think about taking a look around the lively area close to the airport. There are numerous tourist attractions near Chennai Airport to keep you occupied, fed, and captivated, whether you have a lengthy layover or just a few hours to spare.

Chennai is more than just a gateway city; it’s a place of history, natural beauty, & spiritual vitality. And you know what? Chennai International Airport (MAA) is only a short drive from some of the top attractions!

Let’s examine your options based on your time constraints. We’ll discuss fun things to do inside the airport during brief layovers, interesting places to visit close to Chennai Airport, and must-see locations in Chennai if you’re planning to extend your trip.

8 Must-Visit Places Near Chennai Airport (Perfect for a Layover)

Here’s a list of top-rated places to visit in Chennai near the airport — all under a 30-45 minute drive!

1. Guindy National Park & Snake Park

• Timings – 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesday)
• Distance – 7 km from Chennai Airport
• Entry Fee – ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners)

Without leaving the city, get in touch with nature! With its deer, blackbucks, monkeys, & birds, Guindy National Park is one of India’s smallest national parks. Adjacent to it is Snake Park, a popular destination for children & wildlife enthusiasts!

2. St. Thomas Mount National Shrine

• Timings – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Distance – 4 km from the airport

A calm temple perched atop a hill overlooking Chennai. For spiritual reasons, it’s a great place to pause, especially if you need some quiet after a lengthy flight.

3. Phoenix MarketCity

• Timings – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Distance – 10 km from the airport

Do you like to shop, or are you looking for a chic way to kill time? Visit Phoenix MarketCity, a shopping destination with great food courts, global brands, and even a movie theater.

4. Marina Beach

• Distance – 15 km | Open 24/7
• Tip –  Best visited early morning or evening

It is impossible to visit Chennai without taking a stroll along the world’s second-longest urban beach. It’s therapeutic to watch the waves and eat some local fare here.

5. Adayar Eco Park

• Timings – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Distance – 15 km

A unique green haven for those seeking to unwind and take in the scenery. Eco Park is less congested and ideal for walks or quiet contemplation.

6. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

• Timings – 5:30 AM to 12 PM | 4 PM to 9 PM
• Distance – 13 km
• Dress modestly

Mylapore is home to one of Chennai’s most famous temples. This architectural wonder in the Dravidian style is both spiritual and beautiful. Excellent for portraying traditional South Indian culture.

7. ISKCON Temple Chennai

• Timings – 7:30 AM – 1 PM & 4 PM – 8 PM
• Distance – 10 km

Looking for spiritual energy and vegetarian food? ISKCON Chennai is beautiful and peaceful. Their prasad (meal) is soul-satisfying too.

8. Little Mount Cave Church

• Distance – 5 km | Open from 6 AM to 8 PM

A historic and peaceful site where St. Thomas is believed to have meditated. This cave church is perfect for history and faith lovers alike.

Short Layover? Here’s What You Can Do Inside Chennai Airport

If your layover is too tight for an outside trip (under 3 hours), don’t worry — Chennai Airport itself offers a range of things to do.

Things to Do During a Short Layover at Chennai Airport – 

• Sleeping Pods – Sleeping pods in Chennai Airport are available at the International Terminal. Ideal for catching up on rest.
• Chennai Airport Food Court – Try South Indian cuisine or Coffee in both terminals. You’ll find options for dosas, idlis, and filter coffee.
• Relaxation & Lounges – Enjoy the luxury lounges — TFS Travel Club Lounge and Earth Lounge offer free WiFi, snacks, showers, & comfortable seating.
• Shopping – Shop for books, local souvenirs, & travel essentials from airport stores.
• Free WiFi – Available at terminals — good for catching up on emails or sharing travel updates.

Got a Day in Chennai? Go Beyond the Airport!

If your layover turns into a full day or you’re planning to explore more next time, you’re in for a treat! Here are some places to visit in Chennai in 1 day:

Fort St. George

• The origin point of modern Chennai. Rich colonial history and a museum inside.
• Combine with a quick stop at Marina Beach.

Government Museum

• Perfect for art and history buffs. Bronze statues, ancient coins, and more.

Santhome Basilica

• A gorgeous white church built over the tomb of Apostle St. Thomas.

Besant Nagar (Elliot’s Beach)

• Quieter than Marina, great for sunsets and coffee.

DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum

• Get a glimpse of South Indian village life, crafts, and culture. A hidden gem!

Practical Tips for Exploring Near Chennai Airport

• Use the cloakroom to store luggage if venturing out (available in the terminal).
• Pre-book a cab via Uber/Ola or airport counters to avoid overcharges.
• Be mindful of traffic, especially during peak hours (8–11 AM & 5–8 PM).
• The nearest bus stop to Chennai Airport is Meenambakkam — walkable from the domestic terminal.

FAQs on Flights

Q: What are the best places to visit near Chennai Airport?

A: Some popular options include Guindy National Park, Phoenix MarketCity, Marina Beach, St. Thomas Mount Shrine, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple.

Q: What are the tourist places near Chennai Airport for a short layover?

A: If you’ve got less than 5 hours, you can visit St. Thomas Mount, Guindy Park, or shop at Phoenix Mall.

Q: Are there sleeping pods in Chennai Airport?

A: Yes! Sleeping pods are available at the TFS Transit Hotel for international travelers.

Q: What is the name of the Chennai Domestic Airport?

A: It is Terminal 1 – Kamaraj Domestic Terminal, part of Chennai International Airport.

Q: How far is Marina Beach from Chennai Airport?

A: Roughly 15 km, and it takes 30–40 minutes by cab (without traffic).

Q: Any temples near Chennai Airport?

A: Yes! St. Thomas Mount Shrine, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and ISKCON Chennai are all spiritual options close by.

Chennai Is More Than Just a Stopover!

Don’t just wait in the terminal the next time you’re in Chennai on your itinerary. There’s always something interesting to do, If you have two or twelve hours. Chennai Airport offers the ideal fusion of old & new India, with its proximity to spiritual centers, busy shopping centers, ancient temples, & refreshing beach breezes.

Need help arranging a short trip or local transport during your stopover? Contact us now and we’ll take care of everything!