Discovering Chennai in 5 Days

  1. Day 1: Kapaleeswarar Temple
    30 minutes (10.1 km) from Chennai International Airport

    Kapaleeswarar Temple is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and an important Hindu temple in Chennai. Spend a few hours exploring the intricately carved walls and colorful gopuram before enjoying a relaxing stroll around the temple pond.

  2. Day 2: Fort St. George and Government Museum
    20 minutes (3.2 km) from Kapaleeswarar Temple

    Visit the historic Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, and learn about India's colonial past at the accompanying museum. The Government Museum, nearby, houses an impressive collection of exhibits including Bronze sculptures, ancient coins and traditional crafts.

  3. Day 3: Mahabalipuram and Covelong Beach
    1 hour 30 minutes (60.7 km) from Fort St. George

    Escape the city and head South to Mahabalipuram, a historic town that showcases the best of South Indian art and architecture. See the UNESCO world heritage sites of Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Varaha Cave temples. End the day with a relaxing visit to the Covelong beach, a favorite among locals for its serene atmosphere and water sports opportunities.

  4. Day 4: Marina Beach and Marina Lighthouse
    50 minutes (16.2 km) from Covelong Beach

    No visit to Chennai is complete without a trip to its famous Marina Beach. Take a stroll along the long stretch of sand, watch the fishermen at work, and catch the sunset from the Marina Lighthouse which provides panoramic views of the city.

  5. Day 5: Birla Planetarium and Guindy National Park
    30 minutes (10.9 km) from Marina Lighthouse

    Explore the wonders of the universe at Birla Planetarium and see the stars come alive in the advanced sky theater. Afterward, head to the Guindy National Park for nature and wildlife enthusiast. The park boasts of diverse flora and fauna with varieties of birds, animals and reptiles. A perfect way to end your trip to Chennai with the memories of the beauty of this City

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kapaleeswarar Temple (2 hours, free)
  • Fort St. George and Government Museum (3 hours, Rs. 100 per person)
  • Mahabalipuram (6 hours, Rs. 100 per person for entry to all monuments)
  • Covelong Beach (3 hours, water sports activities range from Rs. 200 - Rs.1500 per person)
  • Marina Beach and Marina Lighthouse (2 hours, free)
  • Birla Planetarium and Guindy National Park (5 hours, Rs. 80 per person for planetarium, Rs. 20 per person for park entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: (Rs. 300 - Rs. 1700 per person)

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, visit the vibrant markets of Chennai in the evening and indulge in various street food. Neer dosa, Idli, Biryani, filter coffee, cone ice cream and the list goes on. If you have less time, skip visiting Birla Planetarium and Guindy National Park or combine them with Day 4, visiting the beach in the evening.

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