Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Marina Beach, the longest natural urban beach in India. Enjoy the sunrise or sunset with a long walk on the shore, visit the numerous food stalls for a taste of local snacks, or rent a bicycle for an active ride. During July, the weather is warm and humid, so be sure to bring sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Kapaleeswarar Temple, one of Chennai’s oldest temples, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its Dravidian style of architecture. During July, the temple celebrates the annual Arupathimoovar Festival, a 10-day event with processions and cultural programs. Don't miss the opportunity to try the delicious prasad served at the temple, especially the sarkarai pongal.
DakshinaChitra is a heritage museum that showcases the art, architecture, and lifestyle of the southern states of India, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. The museum features 18 authentic houses, recreated streetscapes, and traditional crafts demonstrations. During July, the museum hosts workshops and demonstrations on traditional crafts and art forms.
Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram, a historic town known for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. Visit the Shore Temple, Five Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance, all of which are stunning examples of Pallava architecture and art. You can also take a scenic boat ride to see the sculptures from the sea.
End your trip with a fun-filled day at VGP Universal Kingdom, a popular amusement park with thrilling rides, water slides, and entertainment shows. The park also has an aquarium, a snow kingdom, and a petting zoo. During July, the park hosts special events and activities for kids, including magic shows, puppet shows, and face painting.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Government Museum, which has a vast collection of art, archaeology, and natural history exhibits. For a taste of authentic Tamil cuisine, head to the famous Saravana Bhavan restaurant chain and try the dosa, idli, and filter coffee. To beat the heat, visit the MGM Dizzee World water park, which has a variety of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.