Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Family-Friendly One-Day Chennai Itinerary: Zoo, Beaches & Temples

Viewed by 265 travelers

Day 1: Family Day Out

Chennai, India on September 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Murugan Idli Shop (Velachery)

Start your day with soft idlis, dosas and strong filter coffee at a family-friendly Murugan Idli Shop branch near Velachery; it's quick, kid-approved and gives good energy for the day. Typical opening: early morning; verify today's hours before leaving.
INR150, 45m

9:00am

Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)

One of India's largest zoos — excellent for children to see elephants, big cats, primates and the children's enclosure; plan for a relaxed 2–3 hour visit and consider the battery-operated mini-train if available. Typical opening: 9:00–17:00 (often closed one weekday); confirm current opening/entry times and transport options before you go.
INR80, 2h30m

11:45am

Drive to Phoenix Marketcity (Velachery)

Short drive back toward Velachery to reach a family-friendly mall with clean restrooms, a food court and indoor play areas — a good place to rest, change, and freshen up after the zoo. Mall hours typically from late morning to late evening; check today's hours.
INR0, 30m

12:15pm

Lunch — Phoenix Marketcity food court / family restaurant

Choose from multiple child-friendly options in the mall food court or a sit-down family restaurant (pizza, south Indian thali or continental) — convenient for picky eaters and quick service. Mall restaurants usually open by 11:00; peak lunchtime can be busy so allow 45–75 minutes.
INR400, 1h15m

1:40pm

Theosophical Society Gardens (Adyar)

A peaceful, shady garden with large trees and free-roaming peacocks — perfect for a calm post-lunch stroll and letting a child run around. Grounds commonly open from morning to early evening; donations welcome. Verify gate times on the day.
INR0, 45m

2:30pm

Santhome Basilica

A beautiful neo-gothic cathedral built over the tomb of St. Thomas; offers a quiet visit and a chance to show your child a different style of architecture and stained glass. Usually open 9:00–18:00; check local timings for services.
INR0, 30m

3:15pm

Mylapore local stroll & snacks

Explore Mylapore's shops and sweet stalls — grab filter coffee, sundal or a light snack and browse brass shops and temple streets; great for experiencing local life and giving the child a cultural snack time. Many shops close mid-afternoon and reopen for evening; verify for specific stores.
INR200, 1h

4:30pm

Kapaleeswarar Temple (evening puja)

Visit this colourful Dravidian-style temple during the lively evening puja — striking architecture and a memorable sensory experience for adults and children alike. Typical open hours: morning and then late afternoon to evening (approx 16:30–20:30); check today's schedule for puja times and any festival closures.
INR0, 45m

5:30pm

Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar) — play & sunset

A clean, family-friendly beach ideal for kids to play, fly a kite or dip toes; enjoy the sunset and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Beaches are public and open 24 hours but use caution with children near the water; evening is generally the safest and most pleasant time.
INR0, 1h15m

7:00pm

Dinner — Dakshin (Crowne Plaza, Adyar) or family restaurant in Besant Nagar

Finish the day with a relaxed, family-friendly dinner: Dakshin offers refined South Indian cuisine (good for sampling regional dishes) or choose a nearby casual family restaurant in Besant Nagar for easy kid options. Dinner service usually starts ~19:00; reservations recommended on weekends.
INR900, 1h15m

8:45pm

Return to hotel/home

Drive back to your accommodation after a full but relaxed family day; allow extra time due to evening traffic. Travel time varies by location — plan accordingly.
INR0, 30m
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version