traveling to India
Arrival Airport
You will need to fly into the Chennai International Airport (MAA) located at GST Rd, Meenambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600027, India.
Flight Cost
Flight costs are going to change depending on a variety of factors. Plan to budget around $2,000 US per person for an economy flight.
Flight Duration
In total, expect at least 24 hours of travel time from the United States to India. We recommend a layover in Dubai, but you may choose any flight that you prefer.
Passports
You need to have a valid US passport to fly internationally. Please review the US passport guidelines to apply or ensure that you have a valid passport.
Visas
You will need to apply for an E-Visa in order to enter India. The application and answers to additional questions can be found here.
Government Guidelines
Please review the US government guidelines for traveling internationally before planning your trip. Pay close attention to entry & exit requirements.
Smart Traveler Program
We advise that you and anyone you're traveling with sign up for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) before you leave. More information on the details of the program can be found here.
Important Documents
It isn't required, but we recommend making photocopies of important documents like birth certificate, driver's license, etc. It's also a good idea to have copies of these documents saved electronically to a drive.
Vaccinations
Review the CDC website for recommendations on vaccinations. You can opt to be vaccinated via a government clinic, a private clinic, or not be vaccinated.
Medication
Review the CDC website for suggestions on what medications to pack. Keep in mind many similar medications for general ailments will be available, but not prescriptions or brand names.
Currency
India uses the Indian Rupee as currency. While some transactions are electronic, we recommend exchanging money before your arrival. Rideshare drivers most often expect cash payment.
Transportation
While all wedding events will take place at the Taj Connemara Chennai, when you need to get around otherwise during your stay, we recommend downloading the Uber app. Most driver's preferred to be paid in cash so please have some at all times.
Travel from Airport
The trip from the airport to the hotel is about 10 miles or 30 minutes. You will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the hotel and back. We recommend downloading the Uber app.
Driver's Licenses
We do not recommend getting an international driver's license and renting a card to get around in Chennai. There are significant differences in cars, road rules, and driving styles. To be safe, please opt for ridesharing to get around.
Accommodations
All wedding events will take place at the Taj Connemara Chennai . All guests will have rooms provided for them once they have RSVPed for the wedding. The hotel booking is for the duration of the wedding events only. See more information here.
Food
The Taj Connemara Chennai will be catering food for each of the wedding events. Outside the hotel you can find many delicious food options. We have provided some recommendations here.
Beverages
We recommend only drinking beverages from sealed containers or those that have been disinfected. Be very aware of the source of your beverages. Avoiding having drinks with ice in them.