Arrive at Chennai (MAA). Pickup and transfer to a centrally located hotel (T. Nagar / Egmore / Mylapore) to drop bags and freshen up. Allow 30–60 minutes for traffic and check-in/locker.
Classic South Indian meal: soft idlis, filter coffee and dosa — fast, economical and iconic for Chennai. Popular branches open early to late (typically 6:30am–11:00pm).
One of India’s oldest museums with archaeology, bronzes and natural history — great for a focused 1–1.5 hour visit to learn Chennai’s art and colonial history. Typical hours: 9:00am–5:00pm (check for holidays).
Historic 17th-century fort built by the British; the museum showcases colonial artifacts, paintings and militaria — good context for Chennai’s colonial era. Museum usually open ~10:00am–5:00pm (closed some weekdays/holidays).
A stunning Dravidian-style Shiva temple in traditional Mylapore — experience architecture, daily rituals and lively temple streets. Temple darshan timings commonly split morning and evening (e.g., opens around 4:00pm onward for evening prayers), so late-afternoon/evening visit fits well.
A Gothic-style basilica built over St. Thomas’ tomb, located along the Marina coastal stretch — atmospheric at dusk and quick to visit; usually open until early evening (approx until 6:00pm).
Long coastal promenade — enjoy an evening stroll, local snacks (sundal/egg bhurji), and people-watching. Public beach open 24/7; sunset times vary (around 5:50–6:10pm in October).
Anjappar offers Chettinad non-veg specialties and biryani; Sea Shell is known for coastal seafood in Mylapore. Both typically open through dinner (till ~10:30–11:00pm).
Head back to hotel to rest or take a short evening walk in the neighborhood (T. Nagar or Mylapore lanes) — keep valuables safe and avoid deserted stretches on the beach at night.
Early morning on the sand is peaceful — Marina is more bustling and historical, Elliot's (Besant Nagar) is quieter and popular with locals. Both are public and open from dawn.
Small urban green reserve with a good variety of flora and local fauna; pleasant for a short nature break. Typically open 6:00am–6:00pm (confirm timings and any entry restrictions).
Monument honoring Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar with a chariot-shaped auditorium and reliefs — a calm cultural stop near Nungambakkam; usually open daytime ~9:00am–5:30pm.
T. Nagar is Chennai’s busiest shopping district for textiles, jewelry and street bargains — plan 1.5–2 hours for browsing and buying; shops typically open ~10:00am–9:00pm.
Authentic Tamil home-style meals or Chettinad non-veg options, good for a filling midday meal before afternoon packing; many local eateries open through lunch.
Allow 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic; Chennai airport is ~30–60 minutes from central city locations — plan for 2 hours before a 7:00pm departure to clear security and domestic check-in.