Welcome to Chennai! Start your trip by checking into one of the many family-friendly hotels available in the city. You can find the best deals on hotels and flights on Kayak. Once you're settled, head to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, build sandcastles, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. In the afternoon, indulge in some beachside activities like horse riding or playing beach volleyball. As the evening approaches, explore the local food stalls and try some delicious street food.
Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Fort St. George. This historic fort, built in 1644, houses several colonial-era buildings and a museum where you can learn about Chennai's history. In the afternoon, head to the Government Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India. Explore its extensive collection of art, archaeology, and natural history artifacts. End the day with a visit to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture.
Spend the day at VGP Universal Kingdom, a popular amusement park in Chennai. Start your morning with thrilling rides like roller coasters and water slides. Enjoy live performances and shows throughout the day. The park also has a beautiful beach inside, where you can relax and swim. Don't forget to try some tasty snacks and ice cream from the various food stalls. End the evening with a stroll in the adjacent VGP Golden Beach, enjoying the sunset.
Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure at Arignar Anna Zoological Park, also known as Vandalur Zoo. Start your day by exploring the diverse range of animal exhibits, including lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes. Take a safari ride to get up close and personal with animals in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit Guindy National Park, a protected area within the city limits. Take a leisurely nature walk and spot various bird species and deer. End your day with a picnic amidst the serene surroundings.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Chennai. Start your day by visiting the iconic San Thome Basilica, a Roman Catholic basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Explore the stunning architecture and soak in the tranquil ambiance. In the afternoon, head to DakshinaChitra, a living museum showcasing the art, architecture, and lifestyle of South India. Witness traditional craft demonstrations and participate in hands-on activities. End the day with a performance of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form, at one of the local dance academies.
Take a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 55 kilometers south of Chennai. Start your morning by exploring the impressive Shore Temple, a structural marvel overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Visit the Five Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples representing different styles of South Indian architecture. Enjoy a beachside lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing by the sea. Before heading back to Chennai, don't miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking rock-cut relief sculptures at Arjuna's Penance.
When in Chennai, don't miss a visit to the Birla Planetarium, an educational and interactive space center offering an immersive astronomical experience. For nature lovers, the Guindy Snake Park is a unique spot, housing various species of snakes and reptiles. Marina Barrage, a picturesque spot near the Marina beach, is perfect for a family picnic with beautiful views of the city skyline. Lastly, Elliot's Beach, also known as Besant Nagar Beach, is a quieter alternative to Marina Beach with less crowd and a peaceful ambiance.