Discovering Chennai in 7 Days

Day 1: City Center Exploration

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Marina Beach is a 20-minute drive from the city center. You can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Fort St. George

Head to Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Explore the museum inside the fort to learn about Chennai's colonial history.
Fort St. George is a 15-minute drive from Marina Beach. You can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a traditional South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop known for its delicious idlis and dosas.
Murugan Idli Shop is a 10-minute drive from Fort St. George.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a Dravidian-style Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire the intricate architecture and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a 20-minute drive from Murugan Idli Shop.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at T Nagar

End your day with some shopping at T Nagar, one of the busiest shopping districts in Chennai. Browse through a variety of shops selling traditional clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
T Nagar is a 30-minute drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historical Sites and Cultural Experiences

Chennai, India

9:00AM

San Thome Basilica

Start your day with a visit to San Thome Basilica, a beautiful Roman Catholic minor basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Explore the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
San Thome Basilica is a 20-minute drive from the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Government Museum

Head to the Government Museum, one of the oldest museums in India, to see a vast collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics. Don't miss the Bronze Gallery and the National Art Gallery.
Government Museum is a 15-minute drive from San Thome Basilica.
INR 50, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a delicious South Indian thali at Saravana Bhavan, a popular restaurant chain known for its authentic vegetarian dishes.
Saravana Bhavan is a 10-minute drive from the Government Museum.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Vivekananda House

Visit Vivekananda House, a historic landmark where Swami Vivekananda stayed during his visits to Chennai. Explore the museum and learn about his teachings.
Vivekananda House is a 20-minute drive from Saravana Bhavan.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Marina Lighthouse

End your day with a visit to Marina Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the coast. Climb to the top for a breathtaking sunset view.
Marina Lighthouse is a 15-minute drive from Vivekananda House.
INR 20, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Guindy National Park

Start your day with a visit to Guindy National Park, a protected area in the heart of the city. Explore the park's flora and fauna, including various bird species and deer.
Guindy National Park is a 30-minute drive from the city center.
INR 20, 2 hours

11:00AM

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Head to Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in India, to see a diverse range of animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants. Don't miss the safari park.
Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a 15-minute drive from Guindy National Park.
INR 50, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Buhari Hotel

Enjoy a delicious biryani at Buhari Hotel, a renowned restaurant in Chennai known for its flavorful Mughlai cuisine.
Buhari Hotel is a 20-minute drive from Arignar Anna Zoological Park.
INR 500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Semmozhi Poonga

Spend the afternoon at Semmozhi Poonga, a botanical garden with a variety of plants, trees, and flowers. Relax amidst nature and take a leisurely stroll.
Semmozhi Poonga is a 10-minute drive from Buhari Hotel.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

End your day with a vegetarian buffet dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant, known for its authentic Indian cuisine and serene ambiance.
Annalakshmi Restaurant is a 15-minute drive from Semmozhi Poonga.
INR 600, 2 hours
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Day 4: Art and Culture

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Kalakshetra Foundation

Start your day with a visit to Kalakshetra Foundation, an institute dedicated to the preservation of traditional Indian arts. Explore the campus and witness dance and music performances.
Kalakshetra Foundation is a 30-minute drive from the city center.
INR 100, 2 hours

11:30AM

Cholamandal Artists' Village

Visit Cholamandal Artists' Village, a communal living space for artists showcasing contemporary Indian art. Explore the galleries and interact with local artists.
Cholamandal Artists' Village is a 20-minute drive from Kalakshetra Foundation.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dakshin

Indulge in a traditional South Indian thali at Dakshin, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic regional cuisine.
Dakshin is a 10-minute drive from Cholamandal Artists' Village.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

DakshinaChitra

Explore DakshinaChitra, a living history museum that showcases the cultural heritage of South India. Discover traditional crafts, art forms, and architecture.
DakshinaChitra is a 30-minute drive from Dakshin.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a light dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its delectable idlis and chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is a 45-minute drive from DakshinaChitra.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 5: Religious Heritage

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Parthasarathy Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Parthasarathy Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Marvel at the intricate architecture and attend the morning prayers.
Parthasarathy Temple is a 20-minute drive from the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Head to Kapaleeshwarar Temple to explore its Dravidian architecture and witness the rituals performed by devotees. Don't miss the bustling market outside the temple.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a 15-minute drive from Parthasarathy Temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Savor authentic Chettinad cuisine at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant, known for its spicy and flavorful dishes.
Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant is a 10-minute drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

St. Thomas Mount

Visit St. Thomas Mount, a hilltop church with panoramic views of the city. Explore the church and learn about its historical significance.
St. Thomas Mount is a 30-minute drive from Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Kapaliswarar Temple Walk

Take a leisurely walk around the Kapaliswarar Temple area, exploring the vibrant streets and soaking in the local culture.
The Kapaliswarar Temple area is a short walk from St. Thomas Mount.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Junior Kuppanna

End your day with a scrumptious dinner at Hotel Junior Kuppanna, known for its authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine.
Hotel Junior Kuppanna is a 20-minute walk from the Kapaliswarar Temple area.
INR 600, 2 hours
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Day 6: Beach Day and Shopping

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Elliot's Beach

Spend your morning at Elliot's Beach, a serene and less crowded beach compared to Marina Beach. Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the sea breeze.
Elliot's Beach is a 30-minute drive from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

DakshinaChitra Craft Bazaar

Visit the DakshinaChitra Craft Bazaar to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Support local artisans and take home unique treasures.
DakshinaChitra Craft Bazaar is a 15-minute drive from Elliot's Beach.
Variable, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Fare

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Fisherman's Fare, a beachside restaurant known for its fresh catch and delicious coastal cuisine.
Fisherman's Fare is a 10-minute drive from DakshinaChitra Craft Bazaar.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Ashtalakshmi Temple

Visit Ashtalakshmi Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi in her eight different forms. Marvel at the intricate carvings and serene surroundings.
Ashtalakshmi Temple is a 20-minute drive from Fisherman's Fare.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Phoenix MarketCity

Spend your evening shopping at Phoenix MarketCity, one of the largest shopping malls in Chennai. Explore a wide range of brands and enjoy some leisurely shopping.
Phoenix MarketCity is a 30-minute drive from Ashtalakshmi Temple.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 7: Culinary Delights and Farewell

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Cooking Class at The Bangala

Start your day with a cooking class at The Bangala, where you can learn to prepare traditional Tamil Nadu dishes. Get hands-on experience with local ingredients and recipes.
The Bangala is a 45-minute drive from the city center.
INR 2000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Adyar Ananda Bhavan

Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at Adyar Ananda Bhavan, a popular chain of restaurants known for its delicious South Indian cuisine.
Adyar Ananda Bhavan is a 15-minute drive from The Bangala.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Chennai Street Food Tour

Embark on a street food tour of Chennai to savor local delicacies like masala dosa, vada pav, and filter coffee. Explore the vibrant street food scene of the city.
The street food tour starts from Adyar Ananda Bhavan.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ente Keralam

End your culinary journey with a dinner at Ente Keralam, a restaurant specializing in authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in flavorful dishes like appam and stew.
Ente Keralam is a 20-minute drive from the street food tour area.
INR 800, 2 hours
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