Start your Chennai adventure by exploring the magnificent Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore. Marvel at its stunning architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance. In the afternoon, head to Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, enjoy the sunset, and indulge in some street food delicacies. For the evening, visit the lively T Nagar neighborhood, known for its bustling markets and delicious South Indian cuisine.
T Nagar: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop in Mylapore. Enjoy their famous fluffy idlis and crispy vadas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Kadalivanam Restaurant near Marina Beach. Indulge in their delicious seafood delicacies, including fresh fish fry and prawn curry. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a scrumptious dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant in T Nagar. Feast on their delectable vegetarian buffet, offering a variety of Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, November 3:
Embark on a historical journey by visiting Fort St. George, the oldest English fortress in India. Explore the museum inside, which houses artifacts from the British colonial era. In the afternoon, head to the Government Museum, home to an impressive collection of art, archaeology, and natural history. Conclude your day by visiting the vibrant Mylapore neighborhood, famous for its cultural heritage, traditional markets, and delectable street food.
Fort St. George: Estimated cost - INR 100, Time spent - 2 hours
Government Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 3 hours
Mylapore: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop in Mylapore. This popular restaurant serves fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and flavorful chutneys. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at Annalakshmi, a vegetarian restaurant located near Fort St. George. Indulge in their authentic South Indian thali, which includes a variety of dishes served on a banana leaf. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Bayview at The Leela Palace, a luxurious restaurant overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Savor their exquisite seafood dishes and enjoy the elegant ambience. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Saturday, November 4:
Start your day by exploring the magnificent Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in South Asia. Discover a wide variety of animals and enjoy the safari experience. In the afternoon, visit the iconic San Thome Basilica, a Neo-Gothic style Roman Catholic basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. For the evening, head to Besant Nagar Beach and relax while enjoying the beautiful sunset.
Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 4 hours
San Thome Basilica: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
For a delicious breakfast, head to The Egg Factory located near Besant Nagar Beach. They offer a wide variety of egg dishes and breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
If you're looking for a lunch spot, try Wangs Kitchen in Karapakkam. They serve delectable Chinese cuisine with a wide range of options to choose from. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
In the evening, dine at Sigree Global Grill in Velachery for a memorable dinner experience. They specialize in Indian cuisine with live grills and a variety of kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Sunday, November 5:
Escape the city's hustle and bustle by taking a day trip to Mahabalipuram, located around 60 kilometers south of Chennai. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shore Temple and marvel at its ancient architecture. Visit the Five Rathas, a group of monolithic rock temples, and witness the intricately carved stone sculptures. Don't forget to check out the beautiful Mahabalipuram Beach before heading back to Chennai in the evening.
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop. This popular restaurant is known for its fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about 100-150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Sea Shell Restaurant to enjoy a variety of seafood dishes. Located by the beach, this restaurant offers stunning views along with delicious food. Average cost for a meal is about 300-500 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Peshawri, known for its mouthwatering North Indian cuisine. Indulge in their signature dishes like dal makhani and tandoori kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 800-1000 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Chennai, be sure to visit the hidden gem of Kalikambal Temple in George Town. This ancient temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali and showcases splendid Dravidian architecture. For an authentic local experience, explore the vibrant streets of Triplicane and indulge in the mouthwatering traditional street food. Another must-visit place is the Government Estate, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city with beautiful gardens and well-preserved colonial buildings.