The best first international trips from Chennai

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

For a first trip abroad, choose somewhere with a short flight, easy entry formalities, familiar food and simple local transport. From Chennai, these six destinations tick the boxes.

1. Sri Lanka

About an hour and a quarter by air, with temples, tea country, wildlife and beaches. Tamil is widely spoken, and South Indian food feels familiar. See Sri Lanka.

2. Thailand

About four hours to Bangkok, with temples, beaches, shopping and good-value hotels. Indian restaurants are everywhere in the tourist areas. Our own group departures make it easy. See Thailand.

3. Singapore

Clean, safe, efficient and full of family attractions. Little India makes food easy. See Singapore.

4. Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur's towers and Batu Caves, Genting's theme parks and Langkawi's beaches, with a large Tamil community. See Malaysia.

5. Dubai

A short flight with world-famous sights, desert safaris and endless Indian food. See Dubai.

6. Maldives

For a honeymoon or special occasion, the Maldives is close to South India and very simple once you reach your resort. See Maldives.

How to choose

• Families: Singapore, Dubai or Malaysia.
• Couples: Thailand's beaches, Bali or the Maldives.
• Culture lovers: Sri Lanka.
• Friends: Thailand.

Before you go

Check passport validity and current entry rules for Indian passport holders on official websites, buy travel insurance and sort out money and mobile connectivity. See Your first international trip: a step-by-step checklist.

How long to go for

Four to six nights is enough for any of these first trips, with one or two bases.