Transport in Chennai
Chennai Central - Arakkonam
Chennai Central - Gummidipoondi-Sulurpet-Gudur
Chennai Beach - Tambaram and Chengalpet
Chennai Beach - Velachery (MRTS)
Bus
Chennai is well connected through the MTC (Metropolitan Transport Corporation) bus services. MTC offers convenient travel opportunities through its regularly scheduled buses, as well as inexpensive fares ranging from Rs 3 to Rs 15.
The State Corporation of Chennai has also began running air conditioned Deluxe buses, which travel the important routes of Parrys - Tambaram, Parrys - CMBT, Chennai Central - CMBT, Chennai Central - Tambaram and more.
Auto rickshaw
Auto rickshaws are readily and conveniently available for hire from auto rickshaw stands or hailed down on the road. They are considered one of the easiest methods of transportation to locate as they are always centered in public areas. Auto rickshaws are mainly used for short distances.
Please note that you should ask a local what a fair price for the auto rickshaw should be before agreeing to a price with a driver, who are known to charge over double the necessary amount. Negotiate and stick to the agreed price, which should generally be Rs 20 to Rs 25 per every km traveled.
Taxi and Car
Driving in Chennai may be a bit difficult for new visitors, as most city roads consist of only one-way traffic. As road rules and congestion areas of the city are unknown to first time tourists, foreign travelers are advised to rent a car with a hired driver, costing around Rs 150 for an 8 hour shift.
Cabs are locally referred to as “call taxis” as they are available by phone and must be reserved. Air conditioned cars are available, and all have fare meters, charging a minimum of Rs 150 (for 5 km) and Rs 10 per additional km. A half day or full day hire can also be arranged for Rs 800-1200.
The most recommended way of transportation via car is with the provided tourist cabs. These tour the city all day as well as visiting outside, neighbouring cities and destinations (Mahabalipuram, Tirupati, etc). Fares are roughly Rs 10 per km and Rs 50 per hour.
Below are phone numbers to some of the call taxi services offered in Chennai:
Fast Track Call Taxi: +(91)-(44)-24732020
Speed Track Call Taxi: +(91)-(44)-66326160
Reliable Call Taxi And Travels: +(91)-(44)-66245332
Friends Track Call Taxi & Cab: +(91)-(44)-66369680
Royal Call Taxi: +(91)-(44)-66246811
Train
The city of Chennai contains a network of trains running the suburban routes. Its four main lines are as follows:
These trains are generally considered reliable and fast, alongside convenient frequency of schedules. First class tickets are recommended during rush hours. The main upside to traveling via train is avoiding traffic jams. Chennai’s suburban trains also have the lowest fares in the country.