Relaxing Day in Chennai - May 2023

  1. Marina Beach (6:00 AM)
    20 minutes (7.3 km) from Chennai Central

    Start your day early by taking a walk on the long sandy shores of Marina Beach, the longest urban beach in India. This beach is calm and serene early in the morning, and you’ll experience incredible views during sunrise. You'll have an amazing view of the sunrise with colorful sky, and the fresh sea breeze will rejuvenate you.

  2. Kapaleeswarar Temple (8:00 AM)
    15 minutes (5.6 km) from Marina Beach

    Next visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a distinctive Dravidian architecture and is well-known for its elaborate sculptures and intricate carvings. Here you'll catch a glimpse of Chennai's rich cultural history and spirituality.

  3. San Thome Church (10:00 AM)
    10 minutes (3.4 km) from Kapaleeswarar Temple

    Located on the beach road, the gothic-style San Thome Church is named after St.Thomas, one of the disciples of Jesus Christ. The church boasts of an interesting and fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. You can also visit the adjacent museum, which displays the artifacts of St Thomas.

  4. Dakshina Chitra (12:00 PM)
    15 minutes (5.6 km) from San Thome Church

    Dakshina Chitra is a unique cultural museum showcasing the art, architecture, and lifestyle of South India. Experience how the people of South India live, dance, work, and celebrate over the centuries here. Take a stroll through heritage houses that were transported and reconstructed from various South Indian villages.

  5. Muttukadu Boathouse (2:00 PM)
    30 minutes (14.2 km) from Dakshina Chitra

    It's time for some fun & relaxation now! Explore the Muttukadu Boathouse, located on the East Coast Road, where you can ride on some fantastic boats like Rowboats, Motorboats, Pedal boats, and Kayaks. The ride on the serene backwaters surrounded by greenery is calming and refreshing.

  6. Madras Crocodile Bank (4:00 PM)
    15 minutes (7.5 km) from Muttukadu Boathouse

    Located very close to Muttukadu Boathouse, the Madras Crocodile Bank is a conservation center for various species of crocodiles and alligators. Have a close encounter with these dangerous creatures and marvel at their distinct features and habitat at the bank.

  7. VGP Universal Kingdom (6:00 PM)
    30 minutes (15.4 km) from Madras Crocodile Bank

    End your day with some thrilling rides and entertainment at the VGP Universal Kingdom. It is an amusement park with a water park, bowling alley, and other fun activities. You can also indulge in some delicious food at the park's various restaurants.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Marina Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple (1 hour, free)
  • San Thome Church (1 hour, free)
  • Dakshina Chitra (2 hours, INR 250)
  • Muttukadu Boathouse (1-2 hours, INR 1,100 for max 4 persons)
  • Madras Crocodile Bank (1-2 hours, INR 40)
  • VGP Universal Kingdom (3-4 hours, INR 700 adults, INR 550 child)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,140 (excluding transport and food)

Useful Tips

If you have some extra time, you can visit the Government Museum, which has an incredible collection of South Indian artefacts, especially from the Chola and Vijayanagara empires. You can also visit the Birla Planetarium, where you can experience a unique virtual tour of outer space. If your religious in nature, then you can visit the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, nearby Kapaleeswarar Temple.

If you have less time, you can skip the boathouse & crocodile bank and move directly to VGP Universal Kingdom. If you are interested in shopping, then you can visit T. Nagar, home to Chennai’s largest shopping district, which is just 15 minutes (6 km) from Kapaleeswarar Temple.

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