Hilton Chennai

A serene island amid the chaotic madness of downtown Chennai, with its conference rooms, fitness centre, several restaurants, and rooftop swimming pool, this hotel is a virtual city all on its own: ideal if you want to take some time to relax away from the busy thoroughfares of South India’s largest city. The rooms come with floor to ceiling windows, sizable flat-screen TVs, and of course efficient air-conditioning, sure to cool even the muggiest of days. All of this, plus incredible views, make this an ideal place to base any trip to Chennai, business or pleasure.

The Raintree

uxurious, comfortable, and calm, the Raintree is another perfect respite from the motorised craziness that is Chennai. The rooms here are deeply stylish with wooden floors and large windows, offering views out over the city. There’s also a spa, a pool, and sauna, perfect for unwinding after a hectic day on the streets. Plus, it’s right in the centre of things, with tourist sites such as Marina Beach and Kapalashewar Temple nearby. The rooftop bar is also stylish and sophisticated, ideal for meeting fellow travellers and for finding good drinks in a largely dry part of the world.

Taj Coromandel

A complex of luxury in the heart of Chennai, combining South Indian design and European elegance, as well as all the amenities that a five star hotel would lead you to expect: a spa, fitness facilities, and business rooms. The landscaped pool in its gardened court yard, though, is the undoubted highlight: an authentic oasis amid an urban cacophony. The rooms are, naturally, air conditioned, airy, and comfortable, and offer spacious marble featured bathrooms as an added treat. Most impressive of all though, are the five – yes five! – on site restaurants serving international cuisine from Italian to Chinese, and everywhere in between.