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Exploring Chennai in 5 Days

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Day 1: Beaches and History

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a stroll along the golden sands of Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Fort St. George

Explore the historical fort, which houses a museum with artifacts from the British colonial period.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional South Indian vegetarian thali at this renowned restaurant near the beach.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sea Shell Restaurant

Savor delicious seafood dishes at this popular restaurant overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Journey

Chennai, India

9:00AM

San Thome Church

Begin your day with a visit to this neo-Gothic style Catholic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Treat yourself to a delicious South Indian breakfast of idlis and filter coffee at this iconic eatery.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Dakshin Restaurant

Enjoy a sumptuous thali meal featuring dishes from all South Indian states at this upscale restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Revisit the temple to experience its serene atmosphere during the afternoon.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Madras Pavilion

Relish an exquisite buffet spread of South Indian and international cuisines at this elegant restaurant.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Art and Nature

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Government Museum

Spend the morning exploring the diverse exhibits at the museum, including archaeological and numismatic collections.
INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ente Keralam

Treat yourself to authentic Kerala cuisine at this restaurant known for its flavorsome seafood dishes.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Guindy National Park

Embark on a nature walk in the park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including blackbucks and spotted deer.
INR 20, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Southern Spice

Indulge in a fine dining experience featuring traditional Chettinad cuisine at this upscale restaurant.
INR 1200, 2 hours
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Day 4: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Depart for Mahabalipuram

Embark on a scenic drive to the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples and rock-cut sculptures.
INR 1000 (round trip), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas

Visit these ancient temples and marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural splendor.
INR 500, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Relish a seafood feast with a view of the Bay of Bengal at this popular restaurant in Mahabalipuram.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax on Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind on the tranquil beach and soak in the coastal charm of Mahabalipuram.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tryst Cafe

Enjoy a delightful dinner at this cozy cafe before heading back to Chennai.
INR 600, 2 hours
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Day 5: Shopping and Wildlife

Chennai, India

10:00AM

Pondy Bazaar

Embark on a shopping spree at this bustling market, known for its vibrant array of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
Variable, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Savor a hearty vegetarian meal at this popular restaurant offering a wide range of South Indian delicacies.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Explore the sprawling zoo and witness a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, tigers, and elephants.
INR 100 (Indian), INR 500 (Foreigner), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Maplai

Conclude your trip with a flavorsome Chettinad dinner at this restaurant, known for its authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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