Exploring Chennai in 3 Days

Day 1: Beach & Heritage

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for its idlis and dosas.
Saravana Bhavan is a popular chain with multiple branches in Chennai. It's a short taxi ride from most hotels.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Marina Beach

Head to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Marina Beach is a 30-minute drive from Saravana Bhavan.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Try some authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine at Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its fluffy idlis and spicy chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is around 20 minutes away from Marina Beach by taxi.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a Dravidian architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the intricate carvings and vibrant temple rituals.
The temple is a 15-minute drive from Murugan Idli Shop.
INR 50 (entrance fee), 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Fort St. George

End your day at Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Discover its rich history at the museum and stroll through the well-preserved colonial architecture.
Fort St. George is a 20-minute drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
INR 100 (entrance fee), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional vegetarian dinner buffet at Annalakshmi Restaurant, offering a variety of South Indian delicacies.
Annalakshmi Restaurant is a short taxi ride from Fort St. George.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Wildlife & Culture

Chennai, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Murugan Coffee Shop

Start your day with a cup of filter coffee and some crispy vadas at Murugan Coffee Shop, a local favorite.
Murugan Coffee Shop is a 10-minute drive from most hotels.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Explore Arignar Anna Zoological Park, home to a variety of wildlife species including lions, tigers, and elephants. Take a safari or enjoy a walk through the lush greenery.
The zoo is a 40-minute drive from Murugan Coffee Shop.
INR 50 (entrance fee), 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at DakshinaChitra

Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali at DakshinaChitra, a living museum showcasing the heritage and culture of South India through art and craft demonstrations.
DakshinaChitra is around 1 hour away from the zoo by taxi.
INR 400, 2 hours

4:00PM

Valluvar Kottam

Visit Valluvar Kottam, a monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar. Admire the architectural grandeur and learn about the poet's contributions to literature.
Valluvar Kottam is a 30-minute drive from DakshinaChitra.
INR 20 (entrance fee), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

End your day with a comforting meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its delicious idlis and chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is a 20-minute drive from Valluvar Kottam.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Historical & Modern

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Amethyst Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Amethyst Cafe, housed in a charming bungalow with a serene ambiance and delicious menu.
Amethyst Cafe is a 20-minute drive from most hotels.
INR 250, 1 hour

10:30AM

San Thome Basilica

Visit San Thome Basilica, a beautiful white church built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Explore the peaceful surroundings and learn about the saint's legacy.
San Thome Basilica is a 15-minute drive from Amethyst Cafe.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Government Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of South India at the Government Museum, home to a diverse collection of artifacts including bronze sculptures and ancient coins.
The museum is a 10-minute drive from San Thome Basilica.
INR 100 (entrance fee), 2 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Phoenix Marketcity

Indulge in some retail therapy at Phoenix Marketcity, a modern shopping mall with a wide range of brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Phoenix Marketcity is a 20-minute drive from the Government Museum.
Variable, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Murugan Mess

Savor a hearty dinner at Murugan Mess, known for its flavorful Chettinad dishes and warm hospitality.
Murugan Mess is a short taxi ride from Phoenix Marketcity.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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