7-Day Foodie Itinerary for Chennai in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Dakshinachitra Cultural Village
    25 minutes (13.8 km) from Chennai International Airport

    Experience the traditional architecture and cultural heritage of South India at Dakshinachitra Cultural Village. Enjoy authentic South Indian dishes at their restaurant, including crispy dosas and sambar, and refreshing buttermilk.

  2. Day 2: Kapaleeswarar Temple
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    15 minutes (7.5 km) from Dakshinachitra Cultural Village

    Visit the historic Kapaleeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Indulge in traditional South Indian vegetarian cuisine at the temple's canteen, including delicious puliyodharai and sweet pongal.

  3. Day 3: Muttukadu Lake
    40 minutes (19.2 km) from Kapaleeswarar Temple

    Enjoy the scenic beauty of Muttukadu Lake and go on a boat ride. Have a taste of fresh seafood at the Seashell restaurant nearby, known for their spicy prawn fry and fish curry.

  4. Day 4: Mahabalipuram
    30 minutes (16.5 km) from Muttukadu Lake

    Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. Try the local street food, including crispy medhu vadas and spicy kothu parottas.

  5. Day 5: Auroville
    2 hours (114.8 km) from Mahabalipuram

    Visit the international community of Auroville and have a meal at the famous Solar Kitchen, serving organic vegetarian food made from locally grown produce. Try their signature dish, the Auroville thali.

  6. Day 6: Marina Beach
    2 hours (103.4 km) from Auroville

    Take a stroll along the famous Marina Beach, the longest urban beach in India. Enjoy some beachside snacks, including sundal and roasted peanuts.

  7. Day 7: Mylapore
    30 minutes (8.8 km) from Marina Beach

    Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Mylapore, known for its rich cultural heritage and food scene. Try the famous filter coffee at Saravana Bhavan and indulge in some crispy masala vadai at Ratna Cafe.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Dakshinachitra Cultural Village (2 hours, ₹600)
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple (1 hour, ₹150)
  • Muttukadu Lake (2 hours, ₹800)
  • Mahabalipuram (4 hours, ₹1000)
  • Auroville (4 hours, ₹1200)
  • Marina Beach (2 hours, ₹200)
  • Mylapore (2 hours, ₹500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹3550
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