Originally Posted by
fotographer
One of the main reasons is that the J fare into Chennai is cheaper on OW than to BOM , even with the flight to and from BOM..
so was hoping to spend a few days on the outbound part of the trip..
You seem to have made your mind up to visit Chennai, so your probably looking for endorsement of your decision. If it's being able to tick off another Indian city cheaply, then go for it.
Sites in the city are limited, listed everywhere and none of them excited me. Sambar and idli are weak reasons for visiting
But TN has lots to offer within striking distance of the city: Mahabalipuram for example, and Pondicherry.