7-Day Itinerary for Chennai in June 2023

1. Day 1: Kapaleeswarar Temple
   30 minutes (9.5 km) from Chennai International Airport

   In the morning, explore the intricate architecture of the historical Kapaleeswarar Temple. Afternoon, taste the local flavours and enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at the nearby Saravana Bhavan. In the evening, take a stroll at the Marina Beach and watch a beautiful sunset.

2. Day 2: Fort St. George and Government Museum
   20 minutes (6.5 km) from Kapaleeswarar Temple

   In the morning, visit the Fort St. George and learn about the colonial history of Chennai. Afternoon, explore the extensive collection of art and artefacts at the Government Museum. In the evening, indulge in some street food and shopping at the vibrant Pondy Bazaar.

3. Day 3: Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage Site
   1 hour 30 minutes (55 km) from Government Museum

   Spend the day exploring the magnificent rock-cut temples and sculptures at the Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the beachside view and have lunch at the nearby Moonraker Beach Resort. Head back to Chennai by evening.

4. Day 4: Vivekananda House and Valluvar Kottam
   30 minutes (9 km) from Kapaleeswarar Temple

   In the morning, visit the Vivekananda House, the ancestral house of Swami Vivekananda. Afternoon, learn about the famous Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar and his works at the nearby Valluvar Kottam. In the evening, take a walk at the Semmozhi Poonga, a beautiful botanical garden.

5. Day 5: Arignar Anna Zoological Park
   1 hour (32 km) from Valluvar Kottam

   Visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in the morning and discover a wide range of bird and animal species. Have lunch at the nearby Hotel Saravana Bhavan. In the evening, enjoy some shopping at the Phoenix Marketcity mall.

6. Day 6: DakshinaChitra and Crocodile Bank
   1 hour 30 minutes (36 km) from Arignar Anna Zoological Park

   In the morning, visit DakshinaChitra, a living museum that displays the art and culture of South India. Afternoon, explore the Crocodile Bank and witness the crocodiles in their natural habitat. In the evening, unwind at the Covelong Beach.

7. Day 7: Muttukadu Boat House
   30 minutes (15 km) from Covelong Beach

   Spend the day at the Muttukadu Boat House and indulge in various water sports activities. Have lunch at the nearby Eden Restaurant. In the evening, head back to Chennai and explore the nightlife at the famous T Nagar.

Recommendations

Other places to visit include the Cholamandal Artists' Village, Connemara Public Library, and the Guindy National Park. For side trips, consider visiting the Pulicat Lake or the Mahabalipuram beach. To maximize your fun, hire a local guide who can help you explore the city's hidden gems. Don't forget to try the local delicacies such as idli, dosa, and filter coffee.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kapaleeswarar Temple (2 hours, Free)
• Saravana Bhavan (1 hour, £5-10)
• Marina Beach (2 hours, Free)
• Fort St. George (2 hours, £5-10)
• Government Museum (2-3 hours, £2-5)
• Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage Site (6-7 hours, £10-20)
• Moonraker Beach Resort (2 hours, £10-20)
• Vivekananda House (1 hour, Free)
• Valluvar Kottam (1-2 hours, Free)
• Semmozhi Poonga (2 hours, £2-5)
• Arignar Anna Zoological Park (4-5 hours, £5-10)
• Crocodile Bank (2-3 hours, £2-5)
• Covelong Beach (2-3 hours, Free)
• Muttukadu Boat House (6-7 hours, £10-20)
• Eden Restaurant (1 hour, £10-20)
• T Nagar (2-3 hours, £5-10)
• Total Estimated Costs: £70-150