Begin your day by exploring the historic Fort St. George, the oldest English fortress in India. The fort houses a museum with exhibits chronicling the history of the fort and the colonial era. Make sure to visit the St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India. Do not miss the changing of guards ceremony which takes place every hour. After exploring the fort, head to the famous Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the Bay of Bengal.
Next, visit the 7th-century Kapaleeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's intricate architecture and colourful sculptures are breathtaking. Do not forget to try the famous local dish, 'Pongal' at the nearby Saravana Bhavan. Later in the evening, head to the iconic Government Museum, housing an impressive collection of artefacts from ancient India. Especially noteworthy is the Bronze Gallery, which features an extensive collection of South Indian bronzes.
On your second day, take a trip to Mahabalipuram, known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites. Start your day by visiting the famous Shore Temple, a stunning 8th-century temple carved out of granite. Next, visit the Pancha Rathas, a group of five monolithic temples, each with its unique architecture. Afterward, head to the famous Krishna's Butter Ball, a gigantic granite boulder that stands on a slope without rolling down for over 1,200 years.
After exploring Mahabalipuram, head to the fascinating DakshinaChitra, a living museum that showcases the lifestyle, art, crafts, and architecture of South India. The museum has a collection of over 18 authentic houses that have been reconstructed to give visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of South India. Spend your evening unwinding at the famous Covelong Beach, located nearby.