Numbers don’t lie and you should also not ignore it because safety should never be a guessing game. Coming to the point, the capital town of Tamil Nadu – Chennai, is India’s one of the safest metro cities competing with Mumbai, Delhi. For all the right reasons, Chennai quietly maintains some of the lowest crime figures involving solo women travelers across all Tier-1 cities. Here’s what you should know.
- NCRB 2023 data states that Delhi recorded over 13,000 crimes against women. But Chennai? Just under 4,500 — despite having comparable urban sprawl.
– Whereas in comparison to Bengaluru, Chennai also sees fewer cases of harassment in public transit — partly due to designated women-only metro compartments and better community enforcement.
Most women who’ve traveled solo here (even international female travelers) agree: people maintain boundaries, and unwanted attention is refreshingly rare.
However, we don’t encourage or say that any other town has a high crime rate. We are just stating what has been put on records.
What Does Safety Feel Like in Chennai for a Women Traveler?
In comparison to other states of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is a place where you can:
- Enjoy late-night walk on Elliot’s Beach without feeling watched or plan a romantic walk at the Marina Beach
- Get into a cab in T. Nagar and be asked if you had dinner yet (not flirted with)
Locals — especially those you meet during commute like auto drivers and shopkeepers — tend to keep to themselves unless approached. Keep in mind that locals are very conservative about social etiquette. So you must respect the locals’ way of living or tradition when you are in the town.
Girls-friendly local towns in Chennai (Tried-and-Tested Girl Picks)
When I was in the town for up to 9 days, these local areas feel like extended safe zones for solo women — clean, walkable, and easy to navigate even if it’s your first time in the city:
- Besant Nagar – Popular for sea breeze, slow cafés, and soft-footed vibes
- T. Nagar – You must explore the rooftop cafes here, narrow little busy, but amazing if you want shopping + food + metro access
- Nungambakkam – This place is a calm mix of local and luxe, great for Airbnb girls who want to extend their stay for a few more days!
- Mylapore – Do you love temple hopping? Mylapore town you shouldn’t forget to bookmark in your Chennai itinerary.
What About Public Transport in Chennai?
TBH: Chennai Metro is one of the most female-friendly in India. It’s clean, cool (literally — ACs!), and offers women-only coaches.
Like other solo women travellers, when I was in Chennai, I also booked Ola, Uber, or Rapido (for zippy 2-wheeler rides). Don’t forget to negotiate if you are not booking via any of these apps. However, I suggest you book through the app, share the ride, and you’re set.
Pro girl tip: If a driver seems too chatty, just put in earphones and say you’re on a work call — works every time. Most importantly, always share your live location or driver details to your fellow mate even across the border as well.
Is Chennai Safe for Solo Women?
Yes — with a full heart and two feet on the ground. Without any brainer, Chennai is absolutely safe to travel solo. Don’t hesitate to explore the capital town of Tamil Nadu in 2025 because there are still 6 months left to end this year. Make this 2025 year count when you plan a trip to Chennai with your family or friends or partner. If you need assistance in planning Chennai travel itinerary, drop your queries in the comments. We will connect you to the best selling Chennai tour package with flights.
