Exploring Chennai in One Day

  1. 8:00AM: Kapaleeshwarar Temple
    20 minutes (6.1km) from Chennai Central Station

    The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular landmark of Chennai. Its Dravidian-style architecture and colorful, intricate carvings are a must-see for visitors.

  2. 10:00AM: Fort St. George
    15 minutes (5.1km) from Kapaleeshwarar Temple

    Named after the patron saint of England, Fort St. George was built in 1644 and is the site of the first British fortress in India. The fort now houses a museum offering insights into the history of colonialism in India.

  3. 12:00PM: Government Museum
    10 minutes (3.4km) from Fort St. George

    The Government Museum is one of India's oldest and largest museums, displaying art, crafts, archaeological finds, and other objects of historical and scientific significance.

  4. 2:00PM: Marina Beach
    20 minutes (7.4km) from Government Museum

    Marina Beach is Chennai's longest and most popular natural beach. It stretches for 13 km along the Bay of Bengal and is a great place for a relaxing stroll or a dip in the sea.

  5. 4:00PM: Santhome Basilica
    25 minutes (8.5km) from Marina Beach

    The Santhome Basilica is a Roman Catholic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The church's neo-gothic architecture and stained-glass windows make it an architectural marvel.

  6. 6:00PM: Mahabalipuram
    1 hour (56km) from Santhome Basilica

    Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut temples and open-air bas-reliefs. Some of the key attractions include the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance. It's a picturesque place to watch the sunset.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple (1 hour, Free)
  • Fort St. George (2 hours, ₹100)
  • Government Museum (2 hours, ₹20)
  • Marina Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • Santhome Basilica (1 hour, Free)
  • Mahabalipuram (3 hours, ₹600)

  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹720

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit more historical and cultural sites such as the Cholamandal Artists' Village and DakshinaChitra. But if you have less time, you can skip Fort St. George or Government Museum. Please note that some places may have covid restrictions, and it's best to check in advance before planning your itinerary.

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