4-Day Chennai Itinerary

1. Day 1: Marina Beach
   10 minutes (3.2 km) from Chennai Central Station

   Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Enjoy a morning stroll along the sandy shores and take in the beautiful sunrise. In the afternoon, explore the nearby San Thome Basilica, a magnificent church with stunning architecture. End your day with a relaxing evening walk along the beach and indulge in some local street food.

   • San Thome Basilica: Free, 1 hour
2. Day 2: Kapaleeshwarar Temple
   15 minutes (4.5 km) from Marina Beach

   Immerse yourself in the rich culture and spirituality of Chennai at the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Start your morning with a visit to this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire the intricate carvings and vibrant colors of the architecture. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Mylapore neighborhood, known for its bustling markets and traditional South Indian cuisine. Spend your evening attending a classical dance performance at Kalakshetra, a renowned cultural academy.

   • Kalakshetra Dance Performance: INR 500, 2 hours
3. Day 3: Fort St. George
   20 minutes (6.8 km) from Kapaleeshwarar Temple

   Step back in time and explore the history of Chennai at Fort St. George. Visit the Fort Museum to learn about the British colonial era and see artifacts from that period. Take a guided tour of the St. Mary's Church and discover its fascinating architecture. Afterward, head to the nearby Government Museum, one of the oldest museums in India, to marvel at its extensive collection of art and artifacts.

   • Fort Museum: INR 100, 1.5 hours
   • Government Museum: INR 250, 2 hours
4. Day 4: DakshinaChitra
   30 minutes (18.2 km) from Fort St. George

   Experience the rich cultural heritage of South India at DakshinaChitra. This living museum showcases traditional crafts, art, and architecture from the region. Spend your morning exploring the various exhibits and interacting with local artisans. In the afternoon, visit the MGM Dizzee World amusement park for some thrilling rides and entertainment. Wrap up your Chennai trip with a relaxing evening cruise along the scenic backwaters of Muttukadu.

   • MGM Dizzee World: INR 800, 4 hours
   • Muttukadu Backwater Cruise: INR 500, 2 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the following attractions or taking day trips from Chennai:

• Visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in India.
• Explore the Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures.
• Take a day trip to Kanchipuram, known for its exquisite silk sarees and historic temples.
• Maximize your fun by trying out local delicacies like idli, dosa, and filter coffee at popular eateries in Chennai.

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