Morning: Arrive at Chennai International Airport and transfer to your hotel in the city center. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Marina Beach, taking in the sunrise and the lively promenade.
Afternoon: Savor a coastal lunch at a beachside café, then explore the historic Fort St. George, where you can visit the museum showcasing colonial artifacts and the beautiful St. Mary's Church.
Evening: Relax with a sunset view on the beach and sample street foods like sundal and murukku from local vendors. End the day with a relaxing walk along the illuminated promenade.
Find HotelsMorning: Begin with a visit to the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, admiring its intricate Dravidian architecture and vibrant rituals.
Afternoon: Head to the Government Museum to view its impressive collection of art, archaeology, and natural history. Afterwards, explore the bustling streets of T. Nagar for shopping and a quick lunch of South Indian thali.
Evening: Ascend to St. Thomas Mount for panoramic views of the city, followed by a visit to the neighboring San Thome Basilica to admire its gothic design and tranquil atmosphere.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a short trip to the UNESCO‑listed coastal town of Mahabalipuram to explore the magnificent Shore Temple and the remarkable rock‑cut sculptures at Pancha Rathas.
Afternoon: Enjoy a seaside lunch at Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar), relax on the sand, and visit the nearby Theosophical Society Garden for a peaceful walk among towering trees.
Evening: Return to Chennai and spend your final evening at Kapaleeshwarar Temple for a calming evening Aarti or stroll through the vibrant streets of Mylapore for a farewell dinner of traditional Chettinad cuisine.
Find HotelsTotal Estimated Cost: ₹380 (excluding meals, transport, and personal expenses)
If you have extra time, consider adding a day to explore the nearby hill town of Kanchipuram for its famed silk weaving and historic temples, or extend your stay at Mahabalipuram for a boat ride to the nearby island for snorkeling. To shorten the itinerary, you can combine the morning visits to Kapaleeshwarar Temple and San Thome Basilica into a single early morning session and replace the Theosophical Garden with a quick coffee at a local café, allowing you to leave the city earlier on Day 3.