7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Chennai

1. Day 1: Marina Beach
   14 minutes (6.2 km) from Chennai Central Station

   Spend the day at India's longest urban beach. Take a stroll, play in the sand, shop at the nearby market, and watch the sunset.

2. Day 2: Mahabalipuram
   1 hour 21 minutes (56.3 km) from Marina Beach

   Ancient Hindu temple sites by the shore. Visit the 7th-century Pancha Rathas, Arjuna's Penance stone bas-relief, and the Shore Temple.

3. Day 3: Dakshinachitra
   25 minutes (10.9 km) from Marina Beach

   Traditional South Indian heritage village museum. Learn about Tamil Nadu's arts, crafts, architecture, and lifestyle. Interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and performances.

4. Day 4: Guindy National Park
   18 minutes (8.2 km) from Dakshinachitra

   Lush green space with a forest reserve, a lake, and wildlife. See peafowl, deer, jackals, fox, snakes, and butterflies. Take a nature walk, go bird watching.

5. Day 5: Birla Planetarium and Periyar Science and Technology Centre
   31 minutes (10.3 km) from Guindy National Park

   Explore the universe and scientific wonders. See 3D shows, interactive exhibits, a virtual reality laboratory, and a science park. Great for kids.

6. Day 6: Arignar Anna Zoological Park
   35 minutes (14.3 km) from Birla Planetarium

   Home to over 170 species of animals, birds, and reptiles. Take a safari, visit the aquarium and butterfly house, and enjoy the playgrounds and gardens.

7. Day 7: Kapaleeswarar Temple and Mylapore
   23 minutes (8.4 km) from Arignar Anna Zoological Park

   Ancient and vibrant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. A bustling neighborhood with markets, street food, music, and dance. Explore the culture and spirituality of Chennai.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Marina Beach (3 hours, Free)
• Mahabalipuram (6 hours, INR 600 for 3-pax tour)
• Dakshinachitra (4 hours, INR 75 per adult)
• Guindy National Park (2 hours, INR 20 per adult)
• Birla Planetarium (3 hours, INR 80 per adult)
• Arignar Anna Zoological Park (5 hours, INR 50 per adult)
• Kapaleeswarar Temple and Mylapore (4 hours, Free)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 8250 (~USD 112)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Government Museum or the Cholamandal Artists' Village. If you have less time, skip Guindy National Park or Mylapore. Be aware of the weather and carry sunscreen and water. Avoid peak traffic hours and plan your ride or route in advance.