Exploring Chennai in June 2023

  1. Day 1: Marina Beach
    20 minutes (7 km) from Chennai International Airport

    Begin your trip in Chennai with a visit to the stunning Marina Beach, the second-longest beach in the world. Take a stroll along the 13-kilometre shoreline and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. You can also indulge in some local street food and try out some water sports if you're feeling adventurous.

  2. Day 2: Kapaleeswarar Temple
    <
    15 minutes (5 km) from Marina Beach

    Visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Chennai. Admire the intricate Dravidian-style architecture and the stunning gopuram (gateway tower). Take part in the daily puja (worship) rituals and experience the spiritual side of Chennai.

  3. Day 3: Government Museum
    30 minutes (10 km) from Kapaleeswarar Temple

    Explore one of the oldest museums in India, the Government Museum. Admire the vast collection of artefacts, including sculptures, paintings and archaeological finds from the Indus Valley Civilization. The museum also boasts a stunning collection of South Indian bronzes and ancient coins.

  4. Day 4: Mahabalipuram
    1 hour 30 minutes (58 km) from Government Museum

    Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram. Admire the ancient rock-cut temples, monolithic structures and cave sanctuaries. Visit the Shore Temple, a structural masterpiece overlooking the Bay of Bengal, and the Pancha Rathas, a set of five monolithic temples.

  5. Day 5: Fort St. George
    20 minutes (6 km) from Mahabalipuram

    End your trip with a visit to Fort St. George, a historical fort that served as the first British fortress in India. Explore the museum inside the fort and learn about the history of Chennai and the British East India Company. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every evening.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Marina Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Government Museum (2-3 hours, INR 20 for Indians and INR 500 for foreigners)
  • Mahabalipuram (3-4 hours, INR 40 for Indians and INR 600 for foreigners)
  • Fort St. George (2-3 hours, INR 5 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 565 for Indians and INR 1200 for foreigners
0