Chennai (formerly Madras) is a large city in eastern South India, and is a center of classical dance and music. Rock climbing is still in its early days in the area, but dozens of new boulder problems and routes have been emerging in crags surrounding the city, thanks to a small but active group of climbers. The rock around this area is mostly granite, and bouldering dominates the climbing scene, although taller routes are being put up a couple hours south and west of the city. Best times of year to climb are December (after the monsoon has passed) to February, but a second good weather window often comes by around late June and July.

Chennai's first modern climbing gym, Fit Rock Arena, opened in 2016, and is located in the southern suburb of Pallikaranai. The best way to find partners and climbing beta is through the Chennai Rock Climbers Facebook page.

Chennai airport sees regular flights from most big cities in Asia and Europe. The city is also well-connected to other towns and cities across the country by bus and train.