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7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Chennai

Thursday October 19: Exploring Chennai's Heritage

In the morning, visit the magnificent Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, known for its Dravidian architecture and colorful motifs. Afterward, take a trip to the Government Museum, where you can discover a vast collection of art and artifacts. In the evening, head to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, and enjoy a relaxing sunset stroll.

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Entrance Free, 2 hours
  • Government Museum: Entrance Fee - INR 60 per adult, INR 30 per child, 3 hours
  • Marina Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday October 20: Fun and Learning

Start your day at the Birla Planetarium, an astronomical museum where you can explore the wonders of the universe. Afterward, visit the Edward Elliot's Beach, also known as Bessie Beach, and enjoy some recreational activities like boating or horse riding. In the evening, visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in South Asia, housing a diverse range of animals.

  • Birla Planetarium: Entrance Fee - INR 60 per adult, INR 30 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Edward Elliot's Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Entrance Fee - INR 50 per adult, INR 20 per child, 3-4 hours
Saturday October 21: Cultural Immersion

Start your day by exploring the iconic Fort St. George, a historic monument that houses government offices and a museum. In the afternoon, visit the DakshinaChitra, a cultural center showcasing the heritage and crafts of South India. Finish off the day with a visit to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, illuminated in the evening.

  • Fort St. George: Entrance Fee - INR 10 per adult, INR 5 per child, 2-3 hours
  • DakshinaChitra: Entrance Fee - INR 100 per adult, INR 50 per child, 3-4 hours
  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday October 22: Excursion to Mahabalipuram

Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram, located around 60 kilometers from Chennai. Explore the stunning shore temples, marvel at the intricate stone carvings, and relax at the scenic beach. Don't miss the Five Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples, and the famous Krishna's Butter Ball.

  • Transportation (round trip): Estimated Cost - INR 1500 per car, 8-10 hours
  • Mahabalipuram Entrance Fee: INR 40 per adult, INR 10 per child, 4-6 hours
Monday October 23: Nature and Wildlife

Begin your day by exploring the beautiful Guindy National Park, a forest reserve with abundant flora and fauna. Then, head to the crocodile bank, a conservation center for various species of crocodiles and alligators. In the evening, take a relaxing boat ride at Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary, home to numerous migratory birds.

  • Guindy National Park: Entrance Fee - INR 20 per adult, INR 5 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Crocodile Bank: Entrance Fee - INR 30 per adult, INR 10 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary: Free, 2-3 hours
Tuesday October 24: Shopping and Entertainment

Indulge in some retail therapy at the bustling T. Nagar, known for its vibrant street markets and shopping malls like Phoenix MarketCity. In the afternoon, visit the VGP Universal Kingdom, an amusement park with thrilling rides and entertainment options for the whole family. End the day with a delightful cultural performance at the Kalakshetra Foundation.

  • T. Nagar Shopping: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
  • VGP Universal Kingdom: Entrance Fee - INR 600 per adult, INR 500 per child, 4-6 hours
  • Kalakshetra Foundation: Entrance Fee - INR 50 per adult, INR 10 per child, 2-3 hours
Wednesday October 25: Relaxation and Farewell

Spend your last day in Chennai relaxing at the tranquil Besant Nagar Beach, known for its serene ambiance. Enjoy some beach activities or simply unwind and soak up the sun. In the evening, delight in a traditional South Indian dinner at a local restaurant before bidding farewell to Chennai.

  • Besant Nagar Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Local South Indian Dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Covelong Beach and engage in water sports like surfing and jet skiing. Take a day trip to the Muttukadu Backwater for its scenic beauty and boating options. Additionally, explore the unique Crocodile Bank located in the outskirts of the city.

If you're traveling with kids, don't miss the Cholamandal Artists' Village, an artist colony where you can witness art demonstrations and even buy some artwork. Another family favorite is the MGM Dizzee World, a popular amusement park offering thrilling rides and entertainment options.

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Chennai.
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