Drawing inspiration from the grandeur of the Chettinad dynasty, The Leela Palace Chennai stands as a landmark on the city’s coastline. It redefined the skyline of Chennai’s Adyar seaface, becoming the first and only seafront palace hotel in the city. Known for bringing together South Indian heritage and the city’s function as a business hub, the five-star hotel has become the go-to for business travellers who appreciate the finer things in life.
A 35-minute drive from the Chennai International Airport, the luxury hotel rises above the rest when it comes to convenience, particularly for those arriving from a long-haul flight. It is undeniably luxurious with sea-view suites overlooking the Bay of Bengal and the signature charm associated with all Leela properties. While now under new ownership, the hotel still succeeds in maintaining its palace-style aesthetics and well-known hospitality.
With 326 rooms, including 129 Deluxe Sea View Rooms and a grand Presidential Suite, the property is equipped to host everyone from multi-generational families to honeymooning couples who have chosen Chennai for a romantic getaway. However, the guests you’re most likely to encounter are business travellers with packed schedules. The hotel caters to them perfectly, with everything from grand ballrooms to meeting rooms designed for both high-stakes presentations or conference calls.
As you journey to the hotel in Chennai’s Adyar neighbourhood, you get a glimpse of the city before settling in. Major attractions, like the Kapaleeshwarar Temple and the iconic Marina Beach, are just minutes away, making sightseeing easy to plan. If your vacation is centred on rest, however, the five-star sanctuary offers everything you need indoors.
The spa at The Leela Palace Chennai provides a range of restorative treatments; MOJEH recommends the Blissful Escape, which uses essential oils and pressure-point techniques to restore balance before your journey home. For fitness enthusiasts, a state-of-the-art studio helps you stay on track and is best followed by a relaxing steam session.
A long day of activity calls for a hearty meal, and the hotel’s dining options more than deliver. China XO offers an alfresco experience serving Asian favourites of stir-fried prawns, Mapo-style tofu and Kung Pao chicken, all paired with a view of the bay. If you’re dining on a Sunday, the Dim Sum brunch is the perfect way to sample the restaurant’s best-loved dishes. Meanwhile, Jamavar features chandeliers, gold-embellished ceilings and a menu fit for royalty – be mesmerised by intricate interiors before tucking into Indian delicacies like Galouti Kebabs, Fish Curry and fragrant Biryanis. For a sweet finish, the award-winning Cake Shop delivers the perfect slice.
This Chettinad-style palace remains the city’s epitome of luxury, chosen by travellers who prioritise convenience and the comfort of Indian hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to Tamil Nadu, there is every reason to stop over in Chennai and spend a few days enjoying all that The Leela Palace Chennai has to offer. Book Now
