Chad and Anusha are flying with Cathay Pacific from JFK to Chennai. Other options are Qatar, Emirates, Etihad etc., or via Europe. Try to fly out of hubs for cheaper flights. Please feel free to email us if this doesn't answer the question for you!

Chad's parents and Anusha will be staying at the GRT and plan to get group rates. Please send us an email or text us if you need rooms for December 12 - 14.

If you're staying at the GRT, you are all set for December 12th as the celebration is at the hotel. For December 13 - 14, we plan to arrange transportation to all guests at GRT to bring them to and from the venue. If you prefer to travel on your own, please use Uber or Ola. The venue is about 45 minutes to 1 hour from GRT depending on traffic.

Since flights to India are quite long and expensive, spending at least two weeks exploring the cities and historical sites is recommended. Please see the itinerary that our preferred travel agent had shared with you or email us for more questions!

Don't worry at all about planning your own travel within India (unless you really want to). Our preferred travel agent can be reached via email at akshay@wanderingsoles.co.in to discuss and customize your travel plans. The great thing is they will book flights, hotels, transportation arrangements along with licensed English-speaking tour guides based on your preferences.

Absolutely! If this is your first trip to India, we promise you'll have a blast! If it's your first Indian wedding, you will love it with all the festivities, clothes, food and dancing!

For December 12th, you may wear any comfortable Western formal wear or Indian wear as you prefer. For December 13 - 14, we recommend wearing Indian outfits like sarees, salwar kameez or kurtas for men. The hotel GRT grand is right at the heart of Chennai's shopping district for all your needs. Don't fret if you are unable to buy a dress before you travel to India.

Yes. U.S. citizens need an Indian visa. The easiest is the e-Tourist Visa, available online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in. Apply at least 2–3 weeks in advance.

Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the closest and most convenient option. It's well-connected to major cities like New York, San Francisco, Chicago (usually via Middle East or European hubs).

Try to arrive by Dec 10 or 11 to recover from jet lag and adjust to the local time zone before wedding festivities begin.

India uses Type C, D, and M outlets with 230V/50Hz. Bring a universal adapter with voltage conversion if needed. There are India specific plugs and adapters that may be available for purchase on Amazon.

Use Uber, Ola, or hotel-arranged cars. Traffic can be chaotic, so allow extra time. Your hosts may also organize group transport for wedding events.

No. Stick to sealed bottled water (available everywhere). Avoid ice or raw foods washed with tap water.

Consult your doctor, but common recommendations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and anti-diarrheal meds. Carry basic medications and hand sanitizer.

Significant. Chennai is 10.5–13.5 hours ahead depending on U.S. time zone and daylight saving. Hydrate, avoid naps on arrival, and adjust sleep schedules before traveling if possible.

Multiple events over several days — may include mehendi (henna), sangeet (music/dance), main ceremony, and reception. Expect color, music, food, and celebration!

Please do not travel with gifts. We have a registry with an address for sending gifts to if you plan to send any.

On all three days, meals will future a plethora of various foods from South Indian (Tamil) vegetarian cuisine with all kinds of flavors. So get ready for a music and dance on your taste buds! Additionally, let the hosts know of any other dietary restrictions.

Wear sneakers. Slip-on shoes may be comfortable but may not be suitable for long hours of walking. You’ll likely need to remove footwear for temple or ceremonial venues.

December is part of Chennai’s “cool” season, but it's still warm: 75–85°F (24–29°C) and humid. Bring light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and a hat.

Yes, but modestly. Tip hotel staff, drivers, and restaurant servers — typically ₹50–₹200 (~$0.60–$2.50) depending on service.

Yes, most hotels and venues offer Wi-Fi. You can also buy a local SIM card (Airtel, Jio) at the airport with passport and visa.

Visa credit cards are widely accepted in malls and hotels but please check before using. For markets and smaller shops, carry cash. ATMs are available but inform your bank of your travel plans. The wonderful thing about India is we are widely digital. However, you may need an Indian bank account to access digital payments and UPI options. It's safest to carry cash before travel begins.

Keep a copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance with you. Store the originals securely in your hotel safe. Carrying an ID is recommended when traveling around the city.

It’s strongly recommended. It covers flight delays, baggage loss, health issues, and emergency medical evacuation.

Head to T. Nagar (which is where GRT is located at) for sarees and traditional wear (look for Nalli, Pothys, RMKV), or to Express Avenue / Phoenix Mall for modern stores. Local crafts, jewelry, and silk items make great gifts.

Bargaining is expected in local markets. Start by offering half the quoted price, then negotiate. Fixed-price stores (like branded ones) don’t allow bargaining.

Include: Toilet paper or tissues (not always available); Hand sanitizer; Electrolyte packets (for hydration); Bug spray (especially for evenings); Prescription medications in original packaging.

Yes, especially at reputable hotels and restaurants. Avoid street food unless you're with a local who recommends it. Opt for hot, freshly prepared food.