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7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Chennai

Viewed by 52 travelers
Friday, March 15, 2024: Arrival in Chennai

Welcome to Chennai! Start your trip with a visit to Marina Beach in the morning, known as the second-longest urban beach in the world. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline and capture the beautiful sunrise. In the afternoon, head to Guindy National Park for a picnic amidst nature. Explore the park's wildlife and take a safari ride. For the evening, visit DakshinaChitra, a living museum showcasing South Indian art and culture.

  • Marina Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Guindy National Park: INR 20 per person, 3-4 hours
  • DakshinaChitra: INR 250 per person, 2-3 hours
Saturday, March 16, 2024: Mahabalipuram Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 56 kilometers from Chennai. In the morning, visit the Shore Temple, a stunning temple complex by the Bay of Bengal. Explore the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic rock-cut temples shaped like chariots, in the afternoon. Spend the evening admiring the intricately carved rock sculptures at the Arjuna's Penance.

  • Shore Temple: INR 40 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Pancha Rathas: INR 40 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Arjuna's Penance: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday, March 17, 2024: Breezy Beach and Valluvar Kottam

Start your day by visiting the Breezy Beach in the morning, a serene and secluded beach away from the city crowd. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and unwind. In the afternoon, head to Valluvar Kottam, a memorial dedicated to the renowned Tamil poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar. Explore the beautiful structure and learn about his teachings. For the evening, indulge in some shopping at Phoenix Marketcity, a popular mall in Chennai.

  • Breezy Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Valluvar Kottam: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Phoenix Marketcity: Variable cost, 2-3 hours
Monday, March 18, 2024: Fort St. George and Government Museum

In the morning, visit Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Explore the museum inside the fort and learn about Chennai's colonial history. In the afternoon, head to the Government Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India. Discover a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures and archaeological findings. For the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk at the beautiful Besant Nagar Beach.

  • Fort St. George: INR 10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Government Museum: INR 25 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Besant Nagar Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, March 19, 2024: Crocodile Bank and VGP Universal Kingdom

Start your day with a visit to the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology. Witness a wide variety of crocodiles and other reptiles. In the afternoon, head to VGP Universal Kingdom, an amusement park with thrilling rides and entertainment options for the whole family. Enjoy the fun-filled attractions and shows. For the evening, relax at the picturesque Muttukadu Backwaters.

  • Crocodile Bank: INR 40 per person, 2-3 hours
  • VGP Universal Kingdom: Variable cost, 4-5 hours
  • Muttukadu Backwaters: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, March 20, 2024: Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Start your day by visiting Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the magnificent architecture and witness the rituals. In the afternoon, visit the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful Roman Catholic church built over the tomb of Saint Thomas. Explore the historical significance and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. For the evening, take a relaxing stroll at the picturesque Elliot's Beach.

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Santhome Cathedral Basilica: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Elliot's Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Thursday, March 21, 2024: Arignar Anna Zoological Park and Birla Planetarium

On your last day in Chennai, visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoological parks in India. Explore the diverse wildlife and enjoy the safari ride. In the afternoon, head to the Birla Planetarium, a fascinating attraction that offers an immersive space experience. Learn about astronomy and enjoy the planetarium shows. For the evening, go shopping at T. Nagar, a bustling market known for its textiles and jewelry.

  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park: INR 50 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Birla Planetarium: INR 40 per person, 2-3 hours
  • T. Nagar Market: Variable cost, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Chennai, make sure to visit Marina Barrage, a picturesque reservoir offering stunning views of the city skyline and a perfect spot for a picnic. Another hidden gem is the Theosophical Society, a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens, lakes, and ancient trees. Locals also love visiting Mahabalipuram's Sculpture Museum, which houses an impressive collection of stone sculptures and artifacts.

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