Marina Beach is the longest natural urban beach in the country. Take a morning stroll along its beautiful, sandy shore, and soak up the sea breeze. There are several fun activities to do, such as horse riding, beach volleyball, and boat rides. Make sure to indulge in authentic, local snacks such as sundal, bajji, and murukku from the food vendors along the beach. If you're interested in history, visit Anna Memorial, situated nearby, which is dedicated to the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. If you're with kids, take them to the aquarium or the amusement park.
One of the oldest temples in Chennai, Kapaleeswarar has a beautiful Dravidian-style architecture that has stood the test of time. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is steeped in legend and serves as a historical landmark in the city. Take a relaxing stroll in its sprawling complex, admire the intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu mythology. If you want to learn more about the customs and rituals of Hinduism, you can hire a guide to explain the significance of the temple's various rituals and ceremonies.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram. This ancient port city is famous for its rock-cut temples, monolithic structures, and granite carvings. You can witness the exquisite Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance, which are stunning examples of ancient Indian architecture and art. Take a stroll in Mahabalipuram Beach, a long strip of sandy shore with breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. Don't forget to buy the famous stone sculptures for enduring memories of the trip.
Guindy National Park is a must-visit if you're a nature enthusiast. The park is spread over 2.7 sq km and is home to various flora and fauna, including spotted deer, blackbucks, jackals, and over 100 species of birds. Take a guided safari tour and learn about the park's history and conservation efforts. Right next to it is the Snake Park, which houses various species of snakes, including pythons, vipers, and cobras. You can witness a snake show and learn how to handle snakes safely.
If you have more time, visit Arignar Anna Zoological Park, which is one of the largest zoos in South Asia, spread over 602 hectares and housing about 170 species of animals. You can also include Fort St. George, which is a historical monument housing a museum showcasing the British rule in Chennai.
If you have less time, you can strike off Guindy National Park and the Snake Park from your itinerary. Instead, you can visit the Government Museum, which is one of the oldest museums in India and houses a vast collection of artefacts from ancient South India, including Tamil Nadu, and several other places.