Start your day at Marina Beach, the world's second-longest urban beach. Take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the sunrise. Next, head to the Kapaleeswarar Temple, which is just a 10-minute drive away. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. After that, take a 1-hour drive to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its rock-cut temples and monuments. The Shore Temple and the Pancha Rathas are the main attractions here. Enjoy the intricate carvings and the rich history of the place. In the evening, head back to Chennai, and end your day with some delicious seafood at Coastline, which is just 10 minutes away from Marina Beach.
On your second day in Chennai, start your day by visiting Fort St. George, a historic landmark built by the British East India company in 1639. The fort houses several museums, including the Fort Museum and the Museum of Natural History. The museum provides an insight into India's colonial past and the history of the fort. Next, head to the Government Museum, one of the oldest and the largest museums in India. The museum houses a vast collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics. It has an impressive collection of bronze idols, paintings, and sculptures, among other things. After that, take a 15-minute drive to Marina Mall, which is a great place to shop for souvenirs and grab some lunch. End your day by visiting the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful church built on the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The church's architecture is a blend of different styles and is a great place to relax and reflect.
If you have more time, explore the city's bustling markets, such as the George Town Bazaar and T Nagar. If you have less time, skip Mahabalipuram and spend more time exploring the city's museums and other landmarks.