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Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Chennai

Viewed by 138 travelers

Tuesday, November 7:

Morning

Start your trip with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shores, taking in the beautiful sunrise and the bustling atmosphere. You can also try some local street food and snacks available near the beach.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, head to the Government Museum, located in Egmore. Explore its various sections, including exhibits on archaeology, art, and natural history. Don't miss the Bronze Gallery, showcasing ancient sculptures and artifacts.

Evening

Visit the Guindy National Park, an urban oasis that is home to various species of birds, animals, and reptiles. Take a relaxing nature walk or enjoy a picnic with your family amidst the serene surroundings. Entry to the park is free, but there may be additional charges for activities like boating and photography.

  • Marina Beach: Free Admission, 2-3 hours
  • Government Museum: INR 50 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Guindy National Park: Free Admission, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, November 8:

Restaurants
  • Saravana Bhavan: A popular breakfast spot known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
  • Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious lunch with a wide range of Chettinad dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
  • Kaidi Kitchen: Have a unique dining experience at this prison-themed restaurant offering a variety of cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Restaurants
  • The Madras Diner is a charming breakfast spot near Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Enjoy the classic South Indian delicacies like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
  • Indulge in a delightful lunch experience at Southern Spice Restaurant, offering a variety of authentic and flavorful regional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
  • For a memorable dinner, head to Annalakshmi Restaurant, known for its delectable vegetarian buffet that showcases the best of South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
  • Savour a delicious South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop, known for their fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
  • Indulge in a traditional Chettinad lunch at Anjappar Restaurant, offering a wide range of spicy and flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
  • Treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at The Flying Elephant, an upscale restaurant offering a fusion of global cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.
Morning

Start the day by visiting the beautiful Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore. Marvel at the impressive Dravidian architecture and explore the various shrines dedicated to different Hindu deities. You can also witness the morning rituals and ceremonies.

Afternoon

Head to the iconic Fort St. George, the oldest surviving British-built fort in India. Explore its museum, which houses historical artifacts, paintings, and memorabilia from the British colonial era.

Evening

Take a relaxing stroll along the lovely Besant Nagar Beach, also known as Elliot's Beach. Enjoy the sunset, indulge in some local street food, and let the kids play in the spacious sand area. You can also visit the neighboring Ashtalakshmi Temple, dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi.

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free Admission, 1-2 hours
  • Fort St. George: INR 50 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Besant Nagar Beach: Free Admission, 2-3 hours

Thursday, November 9:

Morning

Explore the Valluvar Kottam, a popular monument dedicated to the renowned poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar. Admire the architecture of the 39-meter-tall chariot-like structure and the massive stone inscriptions.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Birla Planetarium, an educational and entertaining hub for space enthusiasts. Watch interesting astronomy shows and learn about the fascinating universe.

Evening

Visit the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in South Asia. Discover a wide range of animal species, including tigers, lions, elephants, and more. Enjoy a safari ride and let the kids have fun at the children's play area.

  • Valluvar Kottam: Free Admission, 1-2 hours
  • Birla Planetarium: INR 50 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park: INR 50 per person, 2-3 hours

Friday, November 10:

Morning

Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting the impressive Santhome Basilica, a Roman Catholic church built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle. Admire the neo-Gothic architecture and explore the peaceful interiors.

Afternoon

Discover the vibrant culture and heritage of Tamil Nadu at the DakshinaChitra, a living museum showcasing traditional South Indian arts, crafts, and architecture. Witness live demonstrations and workshops by local artisans.

Evening

Indulge in some retail therapy and explore the bustling T Nagar Market, one of the largest shopping districts in Chennai. Shop for traditional items, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. Don't forget to try some delicious street food in the area.

  • Santhome Basilica: Free Admission, 1-2 hours
  • DakshinaChitra: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
  • T Nagar Market: Personal shopping budget, 2-3 hours

Saturday, November 11:

Morning

Start your morning by exploring the magnificent Cholamandal Artists' Village, housing an art commune and gallery. Marvel at the unique artworks and sculptures created by local artists.

Afternoon

Visit the VGP Universal Kingdom, an amusement park with thrilling rides and attractions suitable for all ages. Enjoy roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment shows.

Evening

Conclude your trip with a visit to the famous Kapaleeshwarar Temple once again, this time to experience the evening aarti (ritual offering). Witness the grandeur and spirituality of the ceremony.

  • Cholamandal Artists' Village: Free Admission, 1-2 hours
  • VGP Universal Kingdom: INR 800 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free Admission, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some additional time, consider exploring the Dakshinachitra Crafts and Folk Art Museum, which showcases the rich diversity of South Indian culture through exhibits and performances. Another great option is a visit to the Guindy Snake Park, where you can learn about various snake species and witness informative snake shows. Both attractions are family-friendly and offer unique experiences beyond the regular tourist sites of Chennai.

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