Start your trip to Chennai with a visit to Marina Beach, the longest urban beach in India. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, watch the sunrise or sunset, or grab a snack from a local vendor. As Marina Beach can get crowded during peak hours, we recommend visiting during off-peak hours. At the northern end of the beach, you can also visit a lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the sea.
Next, head over to the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a 7th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is a popular pilgrimage site and known for its intricate architecture, colourful decorations, and ornate tower. Take a stroll around the temple courtyard and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. If you visit on a Friday, you can also witness the temple's special rituals and puja (prayers).
After the temple, head over to the Government Museum, located in the heart of the city. The museum has a vast collection covering several fields such as history, archaeology, geology, and art. Learn about the history and culture of Chennai and India through exhibits such as the Bronze Gallery, Amravati Gallery, and the Children's Museum. Don't forget to check out the museum shop, which sells unique souvenirs and gifts.
End your day with a visit to St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, one of the oldest churches in Chennai. The church was built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers and has a fascinating history. Explore the beautiful architecture, murals, and relics. If you're lucky, you may also hear the church choir perform.
Start Day 2 with a visit to Fort St. George, a historic fortress built in the 17th century by the British East India Company. The fort houses several buildings such as the St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India, and the Fort Museum, which has a vast collection of artefacts from the British colonial era. Take a stroll around the fort grounds and enjoy the charming colonial architecture.
Next, head over to San Thome Basilica, a Roman Catholic basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas, an apostle of Jesus Christ who is believed to have travelled to India in the 1st century AD. The church has a beautiful neo-gothic design and is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians in India. Take a moment to reflect and admire the beautiful architecture.
End your trip to Chennai with a visit to the Birla Planetarium, located in the Periyar Science and Technology Centre. The planetarium offers shows about astronomy and space exploration, which are informative and entertaining. The science centre also has several exhibits covering various scientific topics, such as the human body, electricity, and energy. Make sure to check the show timings beforehand and book your tickets in advance.
Chennai has a tropical climate, so make sure to carry a water bottle and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Avoid visiting places during peak hours to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough time to explore each location. If you have more time, you can also visit other places such as the Guindy National Park, the Vandalur Zoo, and the DakshinaChitra Museum. If you have less time, you can skip the Government Museum or the Birla Planetarium.