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Four-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Chennai and Bangalore in July 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore Chennai
    30 minutes (9.4 km) from Chennai International Airport

    Start your day early with a visit to the stunning Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore, one of the oldest and most significant temples in Chennai. Afterward, head to the Government Museum, which houses one of the finest collections of ancient artifacts and artwork in India. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, and soak in the vibrant local culture. In the evening, visit the bustling T Nagar shopping district to experience the best of Chennai street food and local shopping.

  2. Day 2: Discover Bangalore
    6 hours (350 km) from Chennai

    Start your day with a visit to the Bangalore Palace, a sprawling estate that was once the residence of the Wadiyar dynasty. Next, head to the Cubbon Park, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city, to enjoy a picnic lunch and take a relaxing walk. In the afternoon, visit the Bull Temple, a unique temple dedicated to the sacred bull Nandi, and the 16th-century Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture. In the evening, explore the vibrant MG Road district, known for its pubs, restaurants, and street food stalls.

  3. Day 3: Experience Bangalore's Culture
    30 minutes (8 km) from MG Road

    Start your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Modern Art, which houses an impressive collection of modern Indian art. Afterward, head to the colorful Malleshwaram market to experience the local culture and enjoy some delicious street food. In the afternoon, visit the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a 240-acre garden that features over 1,000 species of plants and a beautiful glasshouse. In the evening, catch a traditional dance or music performance at the Ravindra Kalakshetra auditorium.

  4. Day 4: Explore Chennai's History
    6 hours (350 km) from Bangalore

    Start your day early with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram, a group of ancient rock-cut temples and monuments that date back to the 7th and 8th centuries. In the afternoon, visit the Fort St. George, a historic fortress that was once the center of British colonial power in India, and the nearby St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India. In the evening, head to the lively Pondy Bazaar shopping district to pick up some souvenirs and enjoy some delicious local food.

Recommendations

Don't miss a visit to the iconic Mysore Palace and the Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysore, located about three hours from Bangalore. For a unique cultural experience, check out a live Bollywood film shoot at the Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, located about six hours from Chennai.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kapaleeswarar Temple (1 hour, Free)
  • Government Museum (2 hours, ₹35)
  • Marina Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • T Nagar shopping district (2 hours, ₹500)
  • Bangalore Palace (2 hours, ₹240)
  • Cubbon Park (2 hours, Free)
  • Bull Temple (1 hour, Free)
  • Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace (1 hour, ₹15)
  • National Gallery of Modern Art (2 hours, ₹20)
  • Malleshwaram market (2 hours, ₹200)
  • Lalbagh Botanical Garden (2 hours, ₹30)
  • Ravindra Kalakshetra auditorium (2 hours, ₹100)
  • Mahabalipuram (4 hours, ₹50)
  • Fort St. George (2 hours, ₹5)
  • St. Mary's Church (1 hour, Free)
  • Pondy Bazaar shopping district (2 hours, ₹500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹1,800
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