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3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Chennai

  1. Sunday, August 13: Marina Beach
    15 minutes (4.2 km) from Chennai city center

    Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. Enjoy a refreshing morning walk along the shore, build sandcastles with your family, or simply relax and soak in the beautiful views. In the afternoon, explore the nearby San Thome Basilica, a stunning Roman Catholic church, and learn about its rich history. As the evening sets in, head to the vibrant Besant Nagar Beach, known for its lively atmosphere, food stalls, and street performances.

    • San Thome Basilica: Free entry, 1-2 hours
    • Besant Nagar Beach: Free entry, 2-3 hours
  2. Monday, August 14: Arignar Anna Zoological Park
    1 hour 30 minutes (29 km) from Chennai city center

    Spend the morning exploring the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, popularly known as Vandalur Zoo. This family-friendly attraction is home to a diverse range of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and more. Enjoy a safari ride and get up close to the wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the Guindy National Park, located nearby. Take a leisurely walk amidst lush greenery and spot various bird species. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Phoenix MarketCity, a sprawling mall offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

    • Arignar Anna Zoological Park: INR 50 (approx. $0.70) per person, 4-5 hours
    • Guindy National Park: Free entry, 1-2 hours
    • Phoenix MarketCity: Expenses vary, 2-3 hours
  3. Tuesday, August 15: Mahabalipuram
    1 hour 30 minutes (56 km) from Chennai city center

    Embark on a day trip to the historic town of Mahabalipuram. Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shore Temple, an ancient stone temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Explore the intricate rock-cut sculptures at the Five Rathas and witness the majestic Arjuna's Penance. Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Mahabalipuram Beach and enjoy the cool sea breeze. Indulge in traditional South Indian cuisine at a local restaurant. Return to Chennai in the evening and visit the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple to experience the city's religious heritage.

    • Shore Temple: INR 40 (approx. $0.55) per person, 1-2 hours
    • Five Rathas: INR 30 (approx. $0.40) per person, 1-2 hours
    • Arjuna's Penance: Free entry, 1-2 hours
    • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours

Recommendations

Chennai offers a plethora of attractions and experiences for families. Don't miss a visit to the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, paintings, and archaeological findings. For a fun-filled day trip, consider visiting the Crocodile Bank, located approximately 40 km from Chennai, where you can witness various crocodile species up close. To make the most of your money and have an enjoyable time, consider trying out local street food, such as crispy dosas and flavorful chaats, which are not only delicious but also budget-friendly.

For the best hotel and flight prices for your Chennai trip, you can check here.

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