Start your day by exploring the cultural heritage of Chennai. Begin with Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India that now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and a museum. From there, visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that features intricate carvings and a colorful gopuram. Continue to San Thome Basilica, a beautiful Roman Catholic church built on the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. End your day by taking a stroll along the Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, and enjoy the sunset.
Spend your second day shopping and tasting local cuisine in Chennai. Start at the T Nagar market, one of the largest shopping districts in India, where you can find everything from clothing to electronics. Next, head to the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of South Indian bronzes, sculptures, and paintings. Afterward, visit the Thousand Lights Mosque, a stunning mosque with intricate Islamic architecture. End your day by trying some local food at Saravana Bhavan, a famous vegetarian restaurant chain that serves delicious South Indian cuisine.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features ancient temples, monolithic structures, and rock carvings. If you're interested in history, you can also visit the DakshinaChitra Museum, which showcases the living traditions and lifestyles of the South Indian people. To maximize your fun, try taking a local bus or train to experience the local commute and mingle with the locals. Lastly, don't forget to try the filter coffee, a popular local coffee that's brewed with chicory and served with milk and sugar.