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Explore Chennai in 3 Days

Viewed by 90 travelers

Day 1: Beach and Temples

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll along the shore.
Marina Beach is located in the heart of Chennai. It's about a 30-minute drive from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Head to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a vibrant and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at its Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a 20-minute drive from Marina Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Savor authentic South Indian cuisine at Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious dosas and filter coffee.
Saravana Bhavan is a short walk from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
$, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Santhome Cathedral

Visit Santhome Cathedral, a beautiful white church built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Explore its peaceful surroundings and learn about its history.
Santhome Cathedral is a 10-minute drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Relaxation at Hotel

Head back to your hotel for some relaxation and to freshen up before dinner.
Return to your hotel via a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride.
N/A, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Enjoy a vegetarian feast at Annalakshmi, offering a variety of traditional South Indian dishes in a cozy ambiance.
Annalakshmi Restaurant is a 15-minute drive from your hotel.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Museums and Parks

Chennai, India

9:00 AM

Government Museum

Begin your day with a visit to the Government Museum, housing a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics.
Government Museum is a 20-minute drive from the city center.
$, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Valluvar Kottam

Explore Valluvar Kottam, a monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet-philosopher Valluvar. Admire the intricately carved structure.
Valluvar Kottam is a 10-minute drive from Government Museum.
$, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a delicious South Indian lunch at Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its fluffy idlis and flavorful chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is a short walk from Valluvar Kottam.
$, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Guindy National Park

Spend the afternoon at Guindy National Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Take a nature walk and spot some wildlife.
Guindy National Park is a 15-minute drive from Valluvar Kottam.
$, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel to relax and freshen up after a day of exploration.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw back to your hotel.
N/A, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Ente Keralam

Enjoy a dinner at Ente Keralam, a restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Try the traditional appam and stew.
Ente Keralam is a 20-minute drive from your hotel.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Village and Heritage Site

Chennai, India

8:30 AM

DakshinaChitra

Start your day with a visit to DakshinaChitra, an outdoor museum that showcases the heritage and culture of South India through various art forms.
DakshinaChitra is located about an hour's drive from Chennai city center.
$, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Moonrakers, a restaurant offering a variety of coastal delicacies with a view of the beach.
Moonrakers is a short walk from DakshinaChitra.
$$, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Mahabalipuram

Head to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock-cut temples and shore temple. Explore the rich history of the area.
Mahabalipuram is a 30-minute drive from DakshinaChitra.
$, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Chennai

Travel back to Chennai and spend the evening at leisure, perhaps shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at a local cafe.
Take a taxi or public transport back to Chennai city center.
$, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

End your day with a dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, indulging in their famous idlis and crispy dosas.
Murugan Idli Shop is a 20-minute drive from the city center.
$, 1 hour
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