Exploring Nature in Chennai: A One-Day Itinerary

  1. 6:00AM: Guindy National Park
    20 minutes (7.2 km) from Chennai Central Station

    Start your day early with a visit to the Guindy National Park, one of the smallest national parks in India. Spread over 2.7 square kilometers, this park boasts of a variety of flora and fauna, including blackbucks, spotted deer, jackals, and over 130 species of birds. Take a safari or a nature walk to explore the park's beauty.

  2. 8:30AM: Theosophical Society
    10 minutes (3.8 km) from Guindy National Park

    Visit the serene and peaceful Theosophical Society, which is situated on the banks of the Adyar River. This society is known for its beautiful gardens, ancient Banyan trees, and the famous 450-year-old Mahabodhi Tree, which is said to have been grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree in Sri Lanka.

  3. 11:00AM: Arignar Anna Zoological Park
    25 minutes (8.9 km) from Theosophical Society

    Head over to the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, popularly known as the Vandalur Zoo, which is one of the largest zoos in South Asia. Spread over 1,265 acres, this zoo houses over 2,500 animals belonging to more than 140 species. Explore the different sections of the zoo, including the lion safari, elephant safari, and nocturnal animal house.

  4. 2:00PM: DakshinaChitra
    50 minutes (20.7 km) from Arignar Anna Zoological Park

    Visit DakshinaChitra, a unique cultural center that showcases the art, architecture, lifestyle, and crafts of South India. This living museum is spread over 10 acres and has over 18 heritage houses, each representing a different style of architecture from the region. You can also watch artisans at work and attend workshops to learn traditional crafts.

  5. 4:30PM: Marina Beach
    30 minutes (13.2 km) from DakshinaChitra

    End your day by visiting Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Stroll along the beach, watch the sunset, and take in the views of the Bay of Bengal. You can also indulge in some local street food and shop for souvenirs at the various stalls along the promenade.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Guindy National Park (2 hours, INR 60 per person)
  • Theosophical Society (1 hour, Free entry)
  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park (3 hours, INR 50 per person)
  • DakshinaChitra (2 hours, INR 250 per person)
  • Marina Beach (2 hours, Free entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 360 per person
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