Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary: Chennai, Nagapattinam, Vellankanni

  1. Day 1: Marina Beach
    30 minutes (7 miles) from Chennai International Airport

    Enjoy India's longest urban beach. Take a dip in the sea, enjoy street food, and visit the MGR Memorial.

  2. Day 2: Brihadeeswarar Temple
    3.5 hours (130 miles) from Marina Beach

    Visit one of India's largest and oldest temples with an ancient architecture marvel. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Nandi statue and the architecture of the temple.

  3. Day 3: Nagapattinam
    2 hours (70 miles) from Brihadeeswarar Temple

    Visit a coastal town lined with temples and religious sites, including the Nellukadai Mariamman Temple, the Sikkal Singaravelan Temple, and the Nagore Dargah.

  4. Day 4: Velankanni Beach
    30 minutes (15 miles) from Nagapattinam

    Enjoy a beautiful and serene beach in a coastal town known for its offshore and nearby religious sites. Spend some quiet time by the shore.

  5. Day 5: Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
    15 minutes (6 miles) from Velankanni Beach

    Visit the famous basilica that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year with its Gothic architecture. Explore the church complex and its history.

  6. Day 6: Sri Rangam Temple
    4.5 hours (175 miles) from Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health

    Visit one of the largest temple complexes in India and marvel at its intricate carvings, architecture, and history. Don't miss the shopping and street food scene in the area.

  7. Day 7: Fort St. George
    5 hours (180 miles) from Sri Rangam Temple

    Enjoy a peek into the history of Madras at Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Visit the Parliament House and the Fort Museum.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Marina Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • Brihadeeswarar Temple (2.5 hours, INR 250 per person)
  • Nagapattinam Temples (4 hours, Free)
  • Velankanni Beach (1 hour, Free)
  • Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health (1.5 hours, Free)
  • Sri Rangam Temple (2.5 hours, INR 50 per person)
  • Fort St. George (2 hours, INR 35 per person)

  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 335 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Thirunallar Temple, Tranquebar, and Pondicherry for their architecture, beaches, and history. If you have less time, skip Marina Beach or Fort St. George. Always check ahead for weather and travel restrictions, wear comfortable shoes and clothing, stay hydrated, and carry an umbrella or sunscreen as needed.

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