Discovering Chennai in 5 Days

Day 1: Beach and History

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a peaceful sunrise at Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, offering stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
Marina Beach is easily accessible by car or taxi from most parts of the city. It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach from the city centre.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

San Thome Basilica

Visit the majestic San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Admire the Neo-Gothic architecture and serene surroundings.
San Thome Basilica is a short drive from Marina Beach, taking around 15 minutes to reach.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Fort St. George

Explore the historic Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Dive into the city's colonial past and visit the museum inside.
Fort St. George is around 20 minutes away from San Thome Basilica by car.
INR 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Temples and Culture

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Begin your day at the vibrant Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a short drive from the city centre, taking around 20 minutes to reach.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Government Museum

Immerse yourself in art and history at the Government Museum, housing a diverse collection of exhibits including archaeology, numismatics, and art.
The Government Museum is approximately 30 minutes away from Kapaleeshwarar Temple by car.
INR 50, 2 hours

2:00PM

Elliot's Beach

Relax at Elliot's Beach, a serene and less crowded spot perfect for unwinding by the sea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Elliot's Beach is a short drive from the Government Museum, taking around 25 minutes to reach.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Village and Heritage Site

Chennai, India

8:00AM

DakshinaChitra

Explore DakshinaChitra, a living museum showcasing the heritage of South India through traditional houses, crafts, and performances.
DakshinaChitra is located about 25 km away from Chennai. It takes approximately 1 hour to reach by car.
INR 250, 3 hours

12:00PM

Mahabalipuram

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, known for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut sculptures.
Mahabalipuram is around 15 km from DakshinaChitra and takes about 40 minutes to reach by car.
INR 30 (Entry to site), 2 hours

3:00PM

Shore Temple

Admire the Shore Temple, a structural masterpiece by the sea, showcasing Dravidian architecture and stunning views of the coastline.
The Shore Temple is a short walk from the main complex in Mahabalipuram.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 4: Wildlife and Nature

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Spend the morning exploring Arignar Anna Zoological Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife species in a naturalistic setting.
Arignar Anna Zoological Park is located about 15 km from the city centre and takes around 45 minutes to reach by car.
INR 50, 3 hours

1:00PM

Guindy National Park

Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Guindy National Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the park's flora and fauna on a nature walk.
Guindy National Park is adjacent to Arignar Anna Zoological Park and can be reached on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Theosophical Society

Visit the Theosophical Society, a tranquil haven with gardens, shrines, and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and introspection.
The Theosophical Society is a short drive from Guindy National Park, taking around 15 minutes to reach.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Landmarks and Shopping

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Valluvar Kottam

Start your day at Valluvar Kottam, a monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar. Admire the grand structure and peaceful surroundings.
Valluvar Kottam is a short drive from the city centre, taking around 20 minutes to reach.
INR 20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Birla Planetarium

Explore the cosmos at Birla Planetarium, offering fascinating shows and exhibits on astronomy and space science.
Birla Planetarium is around 10 minutes away from Valluvar Kottam by car.
INR 60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Shopping at T Nagar

Indulge in a shopping spree at T Nagar, one of the busiest shopping districts in Chennai. Explore a variety of shops selling clothing, jewellery, and more.
T Nagar is a short drive from Birla Planetarium, taking around 15 minutes to reach.
Variable, 2 hours
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