5 Critical Things to Know before Moving to Chennai
Weather
- Hot and Humid most of the year, peaking in May (>40°C).
- Harshest Months: April and May feature high UV and heavy sweating.
- Monsoon Season: Heavy rains between October and December.
Residence
- South Chennai: Modern living close to IT hubs.
- Central Chennai: Maximum convenience and culture.
- North Chennai: More affordable with varied amenities.
Language
- Many people speak English but only a few speak Hindi.
- Basic Tamil phrases greatly help with daily life.
- Learning 20–30 useful phrases makes life smoother.
Food
- Default style is rice-heavy and mildly spiced.
- Idli, Dosa, and Biryani are available everywhere.
- Eating out is generally cheaper for local food.
Transport
- Metro – Fast, clean, and expanding quickly.
- Suburban & MRTS – Useful but crowded at peak hours.
- Autos/Taxis – Essential for last-mile travel.