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7-Day Chennai Itinerary

Saturday December 23: Exploring Marina Beach

Start your trip by visiting Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the sandy shores, enjoying the gentle waves and the beautiful sunrise. In the afternoon, visit the famous Vivekananda House, a historical landmark, and learn about the life of Swami Vivekananda. As the evening sets in, head to the lighthouse at Marina Beach for a panoramic view of the coastline.

  • Marina Beach: Free, Approx. 3 hours
  • Vivekananda House: INR 20 (Entrance fee), Approx. 1 hour
  • Marina Beach Lighthouse: INR 10 (Entrance fee), Approx. 1 hour
Sunday December 24: Exploring Mahabalipuram

Embark on a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. In the morning, visit the Shore Temple, a stunning stone structure overlooking the Bay of Bengal. In the afternoon, explore the intricately carved monolithic structures of Arjuna's Penance and the Five Rathas. As the evening approaches, relax by the beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset.

  • Shore Temple: INR 600 (Entrance fee), Approx. 2 hours
  • Arjuna's Penance: INR 30 (Entrance fee), Approx. 1 hour
  • Five Rathas: INR 30 (Entrance fee), Approx. 1 hour
Monday December 25: Discovering Fort St. George

Start your day by visiting Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. In the morning, explore the historical artifacts and exhibits at the Fort Museum. In the afternoon, witness the changing of guards ceremony at the main entrance. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the Marina Promenade and enjoy the stunning view of the Bay of Bengal.

  • Fort St. George Museum: INR 5 (Entrance fee), Approx. 2 hours
  • Changing of Guards Ceremony: Free, Approx. 30 minutes
  • Marina Promenade: Free, Approx. 1 hour
Tuesday December 26: Exploring Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Chennai by visiting the Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore. In the morning, witness the elaborate rituals and ceremonies performed at the temple. In the afternoon, visit the nearby San Thome Basilica, a beautiful church built over the tomb of St. Thomas. As the evening approaches, explore the vibrant streets of Mylapore and indulge in local street food.

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free, Approx. 2 hours
  • San Thome Basilica: Free, Approx. 1 hour
  • Mylapore Streets: Approx. INR 200 for street food, Approx. 2 hours
Wednesday December 27: Shopping in T. Nagar

Spend the day exploring T. Nagar, one of the most popular shopping districts in Chennai. In the morning, visit the bustling Pondy Bazaar and browse through a wide range of clothing and accessories. In the afternoon, explore the famous Ranganathan Street, known for its vibrant street markets. As the evening sets in, indulge in traditional South Indian cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

  • Pondy Bazaar: Cost varies, Approx. 3 hours
  • Ranganathan Street: Cost varies, Approx. 2 hours
  • T. Nagar Restaurants: Approx. INR 500, Approx. 1 hour
Thursday December 28: Visiting DakshinaChitra

Discover the diverse culture of South India by visiting DakshinaChitra, a living museum showcasing traditional art, crafts, and architecture. In the morning, explore the various heritage houses and exhibits. In the afternoon, participate in workshops and demonstrations. As the evening approaches, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance forms.

  • DakshinaChitra: INR 150 (Entrance fee), Approx. 3 hours
  • Workshops and Demonstrations: INR 100 (Additional fee), Approx. 2 hours
  • Cultural Performance: INR 200 (Additional fee), Approx. 1 hour
Friday December 29: Relaxing at Elliot's Beach

Spend a relaxing day at Elliot's Beach, also known as Besant Nagar Beach. In the morning, unwind on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, indulge in delicious seafood at the beachside restaurants. As the evening sets in, visit the famous Ashtalakshmi Temple and witness the evening aarti ceremony.

  • Elliot's Beach: Free, Approx. 4 hours
  • Beachside Restaurants: Approx. INR 800, Approx. 2 hours
  • Ashtalakshmi Temple: Free, Approx. 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Government Museum and National Art Gallery, showcasing a wide range of historical artifacts and artworks. Another local favorite is the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in South Asia, where you can see a variety of exotic animals. Don't miss exploring the vibrant streets of George Town, known for its wholesale markets and bustling bazaars.

Check out hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

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