Book a trip from Auckland to Chennai with Cathay Pacific , fares from NZD2,285

The most convenient option for travellers to get from Chennai International Airport to the city centre is taking a taxi or cab, which takes roughly 45 minutes. The fastest option is the Chennai Metro Rail system, which connects the airport to downtown in around 40 minutes. For a more budget-friendly choice, public buses operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) are available, though the journey can take around 90 minutes depending on traffic.

Start your journey with a visit to one of the city’s cultural attractions, The Kapaleeswarar Temple. This renowned Hindu temple located in the Mylapore district of Chennai is known for its impressive Dravidian architecture, including its massive ornate gateway tower and towering pyramidal Rajagopuram covered in intricate carvings. Beyond the striking visual elements, the temple is an important spiritual and cultural centre, hosting lively religious festivals and daily worship ceremonies. Visitors can immerse themselves in the temple's vibrant energy and witness the rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Another iconic site is the sprawling 17th-century Fort St. George, which serves as the administrative headquarters of the state government and provides fascinating insights into the city's colonial past. This fort was one of the first structures built under British rule more than 350 years ago and is now a history museum where visitors can explore the city’s colonial past. The city’s architecture is something to behold, as European and Indian features blend into buildings such as the Chennai Central Railway Station, Ripon Building and the Government Building.

Before you leave the city, consider spending a day at the Marina Beach. As one of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach stretches over 6 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal coastline. A popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, the beach offers a lively atmosphere with promenades, food stalls, and various amusement activities. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the sandy shores, watch the skilled Madras Crocodile Bank Trust snake handlers, or visit historic landmarks like the iconic Triumph of Labour statue. As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with crowds enjoying the cool ocean breeze and stunning views.

Make your trip from Auckland to Chennai one to remember by booking luxury accommodation with Cathay Pacific. With us, you’ll discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and lounge access. For those wishing to stay close to the city centre, The Courtyard Chennai is a modern, 4-star hotel that provides convenience and comfort. It offers a range of accommodation options, from contemporary guest rooms to suites and apartments, all equipped with amenities like kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable bedding. The hotel also features multiple dining options, a fitness centre, spa, and meeting spaces, catering to both business and leisure needs. Alternatively, another popular choice is The Fairfield by Marriott Chennai OMR located in the heart of Chennai's bustling IT hub. The hotel provides spacious, contemporary guest rooms and suites equipped with amenities including free Wi-Fi, large work desks, flat-screen TVs, and marble bathrooms. Guests can also access the hotel's 24-hour fitness centre and explore the diverse dining options available on-site. The all-day dining restaurant, OMR Kitchen, serves a range of Indian, continental, and local Chennai cuisine to cater to various tastes.  By booking a holiday package or hotel through Cathay Pacific, you will be able to earn additional miles for your stay.

For food enthusiasts, Chennai is a haven of flavours, boasting a diverse dining scene that harmoniously blends global cuisines into a tapestry of culinary delights. Smoke Hub BBQ is a renowned barbecue and grill restaurant in Chennai that offers a unique fusion of flavours from the Middle East, China, and India. The restaurant is known for its innovative and delicious dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes. Standout menu items include the "SHBBQ Chilli Honey Chicken" and "Saoji Grill Fish," which showcase the restaurant's ability to seamlessly blend international influences with local spices and seasonings. The restaurant includes vegetarian items on its menu as well, including its “Malai Kofta Curry” and “Chilli Garlic Noodles”. Alternatively, those travelling with children may want to visit the thematic Waterfall Restaurant. The centrepiece of the restaurant is a magnificent 20-foot waterfall, creating a natural and serene atmosphere that is perfect for a family outing or a special occasion. The menu at The Waterfall Restaurant is a delightful exploration of the flavours from the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, showcasing the best of South Indian cuisine. Diners can indulge in the elaborate Waterfall Grand Thali, a feast for the senses with a variety of dishes carefully curated by the restaurant's chefs.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Chennai.

• Currency: Indian Rupee (₹, INR). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230V Type C, D, or M
• Time zone: GMT+5:30
• Language: Tamil