Chennai, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Chennai, India? If you're planning to go to Chennai, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Chennai
- Important essentials for Chennai
- Activities for Chennai
- Chennai in January: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in February: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in March: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in April: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in May: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in June: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in July: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in August: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in September: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in October: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in November: weather and what to pack
- Chennai in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Chennai, India
Based on the climate and weather in Chennai, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
Important essentials for Chennai, India
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chennai, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently wear out. An unreadable card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection you can have.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chennai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
-
For families with young children
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. This one should be appropriate for most areas, but you should check with your hotel.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to wear/what to pack for Chennai, India by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Skirts
-
Sunglasses
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
If you're going to the beach
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
If you vacation in Chennai during February, you might notice that it is consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunglasses
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
If you're going to the beach
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
If you are traveling to Chennai in March, you will notice that it can be very hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes harmful contaminants:
-
If you're going to the beach
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you vacation in Chennai during April, you may find that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should pack extra, since these easily get wet or dirty.
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Light linen shorts
Bug bite relief
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
UV protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Sunglasses
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to help you stay cool and include UV protection.
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to keep you cool:
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
If you are traveling to Chennai in May, you will notice that it is a scorcher. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (high 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light linen shorts
-
Protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should bring additional, since these are likely to get wet or dirty.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Skirts
Bug bite relief
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed to keep you cool and offer UV protection.
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed for cooling:
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
-
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
-
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.
-
Waterproof luggage cover
So your stuff remain dry. Even the best luggage can let moisture in. We like:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
June in Chennai is scorchingly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) to high 90s F (high 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Personal cooling fan
-
UV protecting pants
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Skirts
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Make sure bring additional, since these easily get wet or dirty.
-
Sunglasses
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to help you stay cool and offer UV protection.
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Bug bite relief
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to help you stay cool:
-
Bug repellent
-
Light linen shorts
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
July here is sizzling. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
Bug bite relief
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
UV protecting legwear
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Skirts
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to help you stay cool and include UV protection.
-
Light linen shorts
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to keep you cool:
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to pack extra, since these easily get wet or dirty.
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
If you vacation in Chennai during August, you might find that it is sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to cool you and to provide UV protection.
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to keep you cool:
-
Sun protecting legwear
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Bug repellent
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to pack additional, as these are likely to get wet or dirty.
-
Personal cooling fan
Bug bite relief
-
Light linen shorts
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Sunglasses
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
September in Chennai is sizzling. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C) to low 90s F (mid 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Light linen shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
It's important pack additional, since these get wet or dirty.
-
Sunglasses
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to keep you cool and include UV protection.
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed to help you stay cool:
Bug bite relief
-
Skirts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
October for Chennai is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in Chennai is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
-
Sunglasses
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to check out the majestic Bahram Jung Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Chennai tourism authority.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
If you visit the Government Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Activities for Chennai, India
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Chennai.
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