Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Mylapore, Chennai. It is a prime example of Dravidian architecture and dates back to the 7th century CE. The temple's name is derived from two words, Kapalam, which means "head," and Eeshwar, which means "Lord." The temple is open from 5:30am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 9:00pm. Make sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Marina Beach is a must-visit for anyone visiting Chennai. It's the second-largest urban beach in the world and stretches for nearly 6 km along the Bay of Bengal. You can take a stroll along the beach, watch the sunrise or sunset, or try some street food. The beach is open 24 hours a day, but it's advised to visit during the early morning or late evening to avoid the midday heat. Swimming at Marina Beach is prohibited.
Fort St. George is a historic fortress founded in 1644 by the British East India Company. It served as the headquarters of the British administration in India until 1858. The fort now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and several museums, including the Fort Museum and the Museum of the Tamil Nadu Police. The fort is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm every day except Friday. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
Located 60 km south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular day trip destination. The town is home to several ancient temples and rock-cut caves, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and the Mahishasura Mardini Cave. These monuments date back to the 7th and 8th centuries CE and showcase the brilliance of Dravidian architecture. The town is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm every day. Make sure to carry plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes as the site involves a lot of walking.