Family-Friendly One Day Itinerary in Chennai

  1. 9:00AM: Kapaleeswarar Temple
    Located in the heart of Mylapore, this ancient temple is a must-visit for its Dravidian architectural style and intricate carvings. It is one of the busiest temples in Chennai, with several rituals and festivals celebrated throughout the year.
    Estimated Time: 1 hour
    Estimated Distance: 10 minutes (2.3 km) from the next location
  2. 10:30AM: Government Museum
    Explore the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu at the Government Museum. It houses a vast collection of sculptures, paintings, archaeology, geology, and numismatics. Don't miss the Bronze gallery, which showcases the finest bronze artifacts from the Chola dynasty.
    Estimated Time: 2 hours
    Estimated Distance: 15 minutes (4.7 km) from the next location
  3. 1:00PM: Marina Beach
    Take a stroll along the world's second-longest urban beach and soak in the sea breeze. Kids can enjoy kite flying and horse riding while adults can indulge in some street food. Be sure to grab a corn on the cob and tender coconut water.
    Estimated Time: 1 hour
    Estimated Distance: 10 minutes (4.9 km) from the next location
  4. 2:00PM: Birla Planetarium
    Embark on an astronomical journey at the Birla Planetarium, which features a dome-shaped screen projecting 360-degree views of the cosmos. There are several shows held throughout the day, including a sky show, a space show, and a science film.
    Estimated Time: 1.5 hours
    Estimated Distance: 15 minutes (4.1 km) from the next location
  5. 4:00PM: Vandalur Zoo
    Spend an adventurous time with your family at the Vandalur Zoo, one of the largest zoos in South Asia. It houses a diverse collection of more than 170 species of animals, including the white tiger, the Indian bison, and the Asiatic lion.
    Estimated Time: 2 hours
    Estimated Distance: 40 minutes (23.3 km) from the next location
  6. 7:00PM: Muttukadu Boat House
    Take a serene boat ride through the backwaters of Muttukadu and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. You can also indulge in watersports like kayaking, windsurfing, and rowing. The picturesque location is perfect for a family picnic.
    Estimated Time: 1 hour
    Estimated Distance: 20 minutes (16.3 km) from the next location

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kapaleeswarar Temple (1 hour, Free)
  • Government Museum (2 hours, 75 INR per person)
  • Marina Beach (1 hour, Free)
  • Birla Planetarium (1.5 hours, 80 INR per person)
  • Vandalur Zoo (2 hours, 50 INR per person)
  • Muttukadu Boat House (1 hour, 50 INR per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 255 INR per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit Fort St. George, Santhome Cathedral Basilica, and Guindy National Park. If you have less time, prioritize the Government Museum, Birla Planetarium, and Vandalur Zoo as they offer a unique experience. Be mindful of the weather and carry sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas. Avoid carrying heavy backpacks or luggage as they are not allowed inside some locations.

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