Thursday, November 30: Exploring Chennai's Cultural Heritage
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural atmosphere of Chennai. In the morning, visit the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture. Explore the temple complex and soak in the spiritual ambiance. In the afternoon, head to the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of art, artifacts, and archaeological treasures. Wrap up the day by taking a stroll along Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world, and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
For breakfast, head to Murugan Idli Shop, a popular South Indian restaurant known for its fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Annalakshmi Restaurant, a vegetarian eatery serving delicious South Indian and North Indian dishes in a buffet style. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Peshawari, a fine dining restaurant offering authentic North Indian cuisine, including succulent kebabs and rich curries. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Friday, December 1: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram
Embark on a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 60 kilometers south of Chennai. In the morning, explore the famous Shore Temple with its intricate stone carvings and enjoy the panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. Afterward, visit the Five Rathas, a group of monolithic rock temples showcasing extraordinary craftsmanship. In the afternoon, explore the sculptural wonders at Arjuna's Penance and marvel at the giant relief sculptures. Wrap up the day by watching the sunset from the Krishna's Butter Ball, a massive balancing rock.
Shore Temple: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Five Rathas: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Arjuna's Penance: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop. Known for their fluffy idlis and crispy dosas, this restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Ponnusamy Restaurant. Specializing in Chettinad cuisine, they serve mouthwatering biryanis, spicy curries, and flavorful seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Absolute Barbecues. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience with their live grill concept, allowing you to cook your own kebabs and barbecued meats. They also have a wide selection of buffet options. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, December 2: Family Fun at Chennai's Attractions
Enjoy a fun-filled day with your family at some of Chennai's popular attractions. Start your morning at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in South Asia, where you can encounter various species of animals. In the afternoon, head to Guindy National Park, a sprawling urban park that houses a wide range of flora and fauna. Take a leisurely nature walk and have a picnic amidst nature. In the evening, visit VGP Universal Kingdom, a theme park with thrilling rides and entertainment shows for all ages.
Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Estimated cost - INR 50 per adult, INR 20 per child, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Guindy National Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
VGP Universal Kingdom: Estimated cost - INR 700 per person (entry fee), Time spent - 4-5 hours
Restaurants
Savour a delectable South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop near Arignar Anna Zoological Park. Indulge in fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Park Podium, a restaurant located near Guindy National Park. Enjoy a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Experience a delightful dinner at The Beach Club, a restaurant within VGP Universal Kingdom. Relish a range of cuisines while enjoying the beachside ambience. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Chennai, don't miss exploring the hidden gems and local favorites. Take a trip to Dakshina Chitra, a cultural heritage center that showcases the rich heritage of South India through art, craft, and architecture. Spend a peaceful day at the Theosophical Society, known for its serene ambiance and beautiful gardens. For a unique shopping experience, visit Pondy Bazaar, a bustling market where you can find everything from trendy apparel to traditional handicrafts.