Family-Friendly 1-Day Itinerary in Chennai (June 2023)

1. 9:00AM: Mahabalipuram Beach
   1 hour 30 minutes (35 miles) from Chennai city center

   Start the day with a relaxing visit to Mahabalipuram Beach. This pristine beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Take a stroll along the shore, collect seashells, and enjoy the picturesque views of the Bay of Bengal.

2. 11:00AM: Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
   10 minutes (2.4 miles) from Mahabalipuram Beach

   Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shore Temple, one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India. Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.

3. 12:30PM: Dakshin Chitra
   30 minutes (12 miles) from Mahabalipuram Shore Temple

   Dakshin Chitra is a living museum that showcases the cultural heritage of South India. Take a tour of the traditional houses and artisans' workshops and learn about the art, architecture, and lifestyle of the region.

4. 2:00PM: Cholamandal Artists' Village
   20 minutes (7.5 miles) from Dakshin Chitra

   Explore Cholamandal Artists' Village, a community of artists and sculptors. Admire the beautiful paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts on display and learn about the creative process behind them.

5. 4:00PM: Marina Beach
   30 minutes (11 miles) from Cholamandal Artists' Village

   End the day with a visit to Marina Beach, the longest urban beach in India. Enjoy the sea breeze, take a stroll along the promenade, and watch the sunset over the Bay of Bengal.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mahabalipuram Beach (1.5 hours) - free
• Shore Temple (1 hour) - 30 INR for Indian nationals, 500 INR for foreigners
• Dakshin Chitra (1.5 hours) - 250 INR for Indian adults, 130 INR for Indian children, 700 INR for foreign adults, 400 INR for foreign children
• Cholamandal Artists' Village (1.5 hours) - free
• Marina Beach (1 hour) - free
Total Estimated Costs - 280 INR for Indian adults, 1030 INR for foreign adults