The Raintree Hotel Chennai
The Raintree Hotel on St. Mary’s Road is an upscale, Ecotel-certified hotel in Alwarpet, Chennai, India. It combines luxury hospitality with sustainability and local culture, and offers a central base for exploring the city’s heritage and urban attractions. The hotel is described in The Raintree Hotel and Times of India.
History and sustainable approach
Founded in the early 2000s, the hotel takes its name from the Samanea saman rain trees that shade many of Chennai’s avenues. Its eco-friendly measures include energy-efficient LED lighting and motion sensors, rainwater harvesting, water-conservation and management systems, and comprehensive waste management. The hotel has received accolades and recognition from environmental bodies.
What to see and do
Architecture, amenities and dining
The hotel’s sustainable features include landscaped gardens and rooftop greenery intended to support urban biodiversity. Guest rooms feature natural lighting, modern amenities and workspace design.
Dining venues include:
- Madras All-day dining with regional and international cuisine.
- Up North Rooftop restaurant with panoramic city views.
- Madera Contemporary lounge bar.
Amenities include a rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, and wellness facilities featuring natural materials. The rooftop pool and gardens are popular for photography and relaxation.
Events and tours
The hotel hosts cultural events, food festivals and corporate functions. Guided tours of its sustainability initiatives, architecture and art collections can be arranged on request through the concierge, particularly for visitors interested in the hotel’s green features. The concierge can also arrange tours of local monuments.
Practical visiting information
Location and transport
Address: 120 St. Mary’s Road, Alwarpet, Chennai.
Nearby distances and travel times include:
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple: 10 minutes by car.
- Marina Beach: 5 km.
- Express Avenue and Citi Centre malls: within a 15-minute drive.
- Chennai International Airport: 14 km; another hotel listing gives the airport shuttle distance as 15 km.
- Chennai Central Railway Station: 8 km; another listing gives 7 km.
- Teynampet Metro Station: 2.5 km.
Public transport, taxis and app-based cabs are readily available. Hotel-arranged airport transfers and an airport shuttle are also listed. Ramps, elevators, accessible rooms, wheelchair assistance and amenities for differently-abled guests are available.
View The Raintree Hotel location on map
Hours, access and bookings
The Raintree Hotel primarily operates as an accommodation and hospitality venue.
- Restaurants and rooftop lounge Open daily, 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.
- Hotel access Reserved for guests and dining or event visitors. Guest floors and amenities are for guests with bookings.
- Entry tickets No entry ticket is required for the hotel. Accommodation or dining reservations are required for access to guest areas and restaurants.
- Check-in/check-out 2:00 PM / 12:00 PM.
- Bookings Rooms and dining can be reserved through the official website or trusted travel platforms.
The hotel lists amenities for children and vegetarian and vegan dining options.
Visitor tips
- Book accommodation and dining in advance, especially during festivals (official website).
- Use hotel-arranged airport transfers or local taxis for convenience.
- Modest attire is recommended at religious and historical sites.
- Chennai is hot and humid for most of the year; pack accordingly.
- Support the hotel’s green programmes by reusing linens and minimizing waste.
- Notify the hotel in advance about mobility or dietary needs.
- Ask the concierge for recommendations for local art galleries and markets.
- Stay updated on offers and events by following the hotel’s social media and using the Audiala app for personalized travel tips.
Nearby attractions
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Set in Mylapore, this revered 7th-century Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, spiritual festivals and vibrant rituals. It attracts thousands of devotees and tourists each year. Highlights include its ornate gopuram and sacred tank.
- Hours 6:00 AM–12:00 PM and 4:00 PM–9:00 PM.
- Entry Free; donations are invited for special ceremonies.
- Access and nearby places Near Mylapore Metro, with parking and bus connections available. San Thome Basilica, Theosophical Society Gardens and local markets are nearby.
- Visitor notes Dress modestly, expect restricted photography, and consider a guided tour for deeper insight.
Marina Beach
One of the world’s longest urban beaches, Marina Beach is popular for sunrise walks, street food and cultural events.
- Open 24 hours.
- Entry Free.
Government Museum, Egmore
A major museum with archaeological, numismatic and art collections.
- Hours 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Fridays.
- Entry ₹15 (Indians); ₹200 (foreigners).
San Thome Basilica
This historic Catholic basilica was built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle.
- Hours 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.
- Entry Free.
Fort St. George
Located on St. George’s Road, Fort St. George was built in 1644 and is described as the first English fortress in India and the oldest English fortress in India. It houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and features a museum with colonial-era artefacts, St. Mary’s Church and colonial architecture.
- Hours 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Entry ₹15 (Indians); ₹250 (foreigners); children under 15 and seniors free.
- Access and nearby places Government Estate Metro and parking are available. Marina Beach, Government Museum and Kapaleeshwarar Temple are nearby.
Frequently asked questions
What are the visiting hours for The Raintree Hotel’s public areas?
Restaurants and lounges are open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Guest floors and amenities are reserved for guests with bookings.
How do I book rooms or dining at The Raintree Hotel?
Reserve through the official website or leading travel portals.
Are guided tours of the hotel available?
Yes. Arrange them in advance through the concierge; tours can focus on the hotel’s architecture and sustainability.
Is the hotel accessible for differently-abled guests?
Yes. Facilities include ramps, elevators, accessible rooms and wheelchair support.
Do I need tickets to visit the hotel?
No entry ticket is required. Reservations for accommodation or dining provide access to the relevant guest areas.
