The concept of renting cars and self-driving is still picking up in Tamil Nadu tourism, but there are already a good number of respectable car companies which give out cars for rent.

Where?

Although car rental desks are located at Chennai Airport, tourists are advised to book their vehicles beforehand.

Car rental companies at MAA

Avis, Taxiforsure, Rental cars, Savaari, Carzonrent, Spice car rental, Saravana, Clear Car Rental, Carsedge and Car Rental Chennai provide car rental services at Chennai Airport.

Rates and reservations

Eligible drivers can hire hatchbacks, sedans, and vans. If tourists book their cars via the car rental company website, the rates are lesser. The rates listed are per day charges for an average A/C 6-seater car such as Toyota Innova with boot space for 2 bags. For more information, tourists can access the car rental companies’ websites.

Driving from MAA

Chennai International Airport is located in Meenambakkam around 20 km from the heart of the city. The GST (a.k.a. the Tiruchi Chennai Highway) is the quickest way to get to the city centre.

Driving tips

• Driving is on the left side of the road and the steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle.

• Tourists should expect to see a good amount of lane-splitting, over speeding, breaking traffic signals, not giving indicators, swerving and not looking while taking turns. Tourists are advised to follow traffic rules and maintain sufficient distance from the car in the front. The indicator and rearview mirrors are your friends.

• Tourists should finish all their driving during the day and avoid travelling at night as much as possible.

Car renting tips

• Tourists should rent cars prior to their arrival in Chennai as it helps in saving time, energy and also avoid last-minute abusive charges.

• In order to rent a car without a driver, tourists need to submit copies of their passport, credit card and driving licence. Additionally, they also need to have their International Driving Permit (IDP) ready.

• Weather in Chennai can get hot, humid and very sultry, so tourists are advised to rent A/C cars in order to be comfortable while travelling.

Legal requirements

Drivers should be minimum 18 years of age and should possess their locally issued license as well as their IDP.

Places to visit

Chennai is filled with iconic places to see and admire. Marina Beach and Elliot’s Beach are Chennai’s best beaches. One can see old British architecture in the pristine white structures of Fort. St George and St. Thomas Mount. The Ripon Building in central Chennai which houses the Chennai Corporation, is also a must see. Guindy National

Park, Anna Zoological Park, Anna University and Loyola College Chennai are some of the city’s oldest and most iconic places. One can also visit the temple town of Mahabalipuram which is around 60 km south of the city via East Coast Road. Use Skyscanner Car hire page to rent a car and kick-start your memorable holiday.