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Ultimate Guide to the Best 8 Malls in Chennai

While Chennai is known for its beautiful temples, stunning beaches, and of course, filter coffee, it is also an amazing place to shop! Whether visiting high-end brands, wanting to enjoy a movie and dinner date, or just walking around in air-conditioned bliss, Chennai’s malls will deliver. There are malls ranging from high to low price points when it comes to shopping, and the variety is just as rich as the culture in Chennai.  So if shopping therapy is your adventure, this is your list of best malls in Chennai. 8 Top malls in Chennai Walking through a mall with rows of clothing, shiny accessories, and stylish shoes can feel magical. Even more so, when they are all asking to leave with you—all in one mall under one roof with food, movie, and entertainment, this is more than shopping, this is winning at life. Here are the top malls in Chennai where you can shop, feast, and make memories: 1. Express Avenue One of Chennai’s biggest malls, Express Avenue, is a dream come true for shopaholics. With over 220+ international and local brands, this place is a retail heaven. Whether you’re into H&M, Levi’s, or Lifestyle, you’ll find it all here.   But shopping isn’t the only thrill—this mall has a 5D theatre, a kid’s zone, and even a hotel (E-Hotel)! Need some pampering? Head to O2 Spa. Hungry? Dig into global cuisines at Entrée, indulge in pure veg delights at Kapila Dasa, or unwind at Elixir Lounge Bar.   Location: Mount Road, RoyapettahTimings: Weekdays: 10:30 AM – 9:30 PMWeekends: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 2. Chennai Citi Centre Opened in 2006, commemorating Chennai’s first mall, this is a family favourite nostalgic place joining shopping, entertainment and play area for children. Its great location near Marina Beach, Kapaleeswarar Temple and Santhome Basilica provides a good stop after sight-seeing.  You can shop with some of your favourite brands like Max, FBB and Wills Lifestyle while Inox cinemas cater to movie enthusiasts. The food court is exclusively vegetarian, but who can deny samosas and coffee!  Address: Dr. Radha Krishnan Salai, MylaporeTimings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 3. Spencer Plaza Did you know? Spencer Plaza was originally built during the British Raj and later revamped into the 11th largest mall in India! Spread over 530,000 sq. ft., it’s a treasure trove of brands like Westside, Nike, Adidas, and Van Heusen.   While it may not be as polished as newer malls, it’s perfect for budget shopping and window-gazing. The food options are decent, and the vintage charm? Priceless.    Address: 769, Mount Road, Anna SalaiTimings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 4. Phoenix Marketcity If variety is what you seek, Phoenix Marketcity in Velachery will blow your mind. From Zara to Big Bazaar, FabIndia to Ethnicity, this mall has everything. Shoes, jewelry, home decor—you name it!   But wait, there’s more:   – Interactive fun with Chhota Bheem (yes, really!)   – Game zones, Scary House, and Fun City   – Luxe Cinemas for movie lovers   And the food? Oh, you’ll be spoiled for choice.    Address: 142, Velachery RoadTimings: Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PMWeekends: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 5. Grand Square Small but mighty, Grand Square in Velachery is perfect for a relaxed shopping spree. With Shoppers Stop, Croma, and a 5-screen PVR, it’s got the essentials covered.   The food court is modest, but the bowling alley and play area make up for it. Plus, with less crowd and affordable parking (₹20/hr), it’s a stress-free escape.    Address: 137, Velachery-Tambaram Main RoadTimings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 6. Spectrum Mall: Let’s take a look back to the first ever Mall in Chennai – Spectrum Mall (later known as Grand Venus Mall). Located at Perambur decidedly was a one-stop shop of shopping, food, entertainment and a bit of adventure.If you love a good bargain, Spectrum Mall won’t disappoint. From Big Bazaar for groceries to Gini and Johny for trendy accessories, Archies for cute gifting options, and Health & Glow for beauty essentials—you’ll find everything without burning a hole in your pocket.   But wait, there’s more! Head up to the 4th floor if you dare—the Scary House promises some spine-chilling thrills. For family fun, Play Games and Play Palace (on the 1st and 3rd floors) are perfect for some gaming action. Got dance fever? John Bitto’s Dance Company offers hip-hop and jazz classes to get those feet moving. And of course, no mall visit is complete without a movie—S2 Cinemas delivers a solid big-screen experience.   Now, let’s talk about food—because hunger strikes fast! Carnival Food Paradise is a foodie’s delight, with options like Dosakall for South Indian bites, BBQ Destination Sigree for grilled goodness, Dumm Biryani for flavorful rice, and Scoop & Straws for dessert cravings.   Location: 114A & 114B, Paper Mills Road, PeramburTimings: Weekdays & food court: 10 AM–10 PMWeekends: 10 AM–11 PM 7. Ampa Mall If you’re looking for a mall that truly has it all, Ampa Mall lives up to its tagline—”Mall for All.” Whether you’re splurging on luxury brands (M&S, Benetton, Rado) or sticking to wallet-friendly picks (Bata, Westside, Samsung), this place caters to every shopper. Need a quick style upgrade? YLG Salon and Thai Sabai Spa have you covered.   Now, let’s talk about the real hero—food! The F3 Food Court (3rd floor) has 19 different eateries—yes, you read that right! Craving pizza? Pizza Hut is there. In the mood for some Chinese? China Town has your back.  Ampa Mall: 1, Nelson Manickam Rd, AminjikaraiTimings: 10 AM–10 PM 8. Forum Vijaya Mall Over at Forum Vijaya mall in Vadapalani, space was never compromised. With a whopping space of 6.36 lakh sq. ft, it like any other houses more than 100 brands from Marks and Spencer to Adidas to Arrow. Movie enthusiasts – Palazzo Theatre is premium cinema experience along with the food court serving some food offering local treats. Despise what there is to see – check Vadapalani temple. Location: Arcot Rd, VadapalaniTimings: 10 AM–10 PM Wrapping Up: Chennai’s malls truly have something for everybody from expensive luxury to … Read more

5 Best Hotels Near Chennai Airport Meenambakkam 

Touchdown in Chennai? Here’s Where to Crash Near the Airport in Total Style. We understand that landing late in Chennai or getting a painfully early flight to catch is a common thing. Maybe you just need a sneaky staycation with a pool and room service that doesn’t disappoint. Either way, if you’re around Chennai Airport and don’t want to compromise on style, comfort, or vibes — we’ve found just the right hotels that have it all. Think fancy beds, fab food, and a swimming pool where you can float your worries away. And yes, they’re perfect for luxury lovers, business flyers, or even locals wanting a break from the same ol’ city madness. So, here’s your ready-made list. No overthinking. Just pick, pack, and chill with our exclusive list of 5 best hotels near Chennai airport.  1. Trident Chennai – Luxe Feels Just 5 Mins from the Terminal A total classic. Just 3 km away, Trident Chennai is that quiet, luxe escape with a beautiful outdoor pool, leafy gardens, and top-notch service that makes even one night feel like a retreat. Everything’s spotless, the staff’s on point, and the vibe? 100% relaxed.  Approx. ₹9,500/night5 mins from the airportMust-Try: Their South Indian breakfast thali is a winner. 2. Radisson Blu GRT – For Work Trips with a Side of Chill This one’s a business-travel fave for a reason. Super close (2.5 km!), stylish AF, with a fab swimming pool, swanky rooms, and spa treatments for when meetings feel too long. The service here? Smooth like butter.  Approx. ₹8,500/night2.5 km from Chennai AirportMust-Try: Their seafood grill at Salt Co. 531 is hot. 3. Le Royal Méridien – More Resort, Less Airport Hotel Tucked away just enough to feel removed, but close enough to not stress — Le Royal Méridien has a massive pool, big breezy rooms, and chill garden views. A great pick if you want that staycation feel, minus the travel hassle.  Approx. ₹7,500/night5.5 km from the airportVibe Check: Great for solo pampering or a couple’s quick getaway. 4. Hilton Chennai – That Rooftop Pool Though 😍 Infinity pool? Check. Killer cocktails? Double check. Hilton is fancy, yes, but not in a stuck-up way. With a rooftop that’s straight-up aesthetic goals and rooms that scream class, this one’s a go-to for couples, business flyers, or anyone with taste.  Approx. ₹10,500/night6 km from Chennai AirportPro-Tip: Time your swim for sunset. Thank us later. 5. Feathers by Radha – Sleek, Chill, and Budget-Smart If you want style without blowing your budget, Feathers hits the sweet spot. It’s modern, easygoing, and has a chill rooftop pool perfect for a night dip. Rooms are comfy, and the staff’s super warm.  Approx. ₹6,000/night8.5 km from the airportMust-Try: Their buffet breakfast is totally worth waking up for. Wrapping Up Chennai’s airport isn’t just a gateway — it’s a junction where plans begin, stories pause, and the body begs for rest. If you’re flying in after a long journey, about to board an early morning departure, or simply a city-dweller aching for a reset, the stretch of hotels around the airport offers a welcome that’s more than just functional. For business travelers, the connectivity is unbeatable. Most hotels offer airport shuttles, breakfast buffets you can actually enjoy, and workspaces that don’t feel sterile. Luxury seekers, on the other hand, can sink into rooftop jacuzzis, Ayurvedic massages, or cocktails with a view of planes gliding through the night. And for Chennai locals, it’s the perfect “I-need-a-break” zone — just far enough from the city’s core to feel removed, but close enough to return to reality with a smile.