How many days do you need in chennai, india?

This itinerary covers 7 days in chennai, india, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for chennai, india?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to chennai, india. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7 Days 6 Nights Chennai Adventure

Day 1: Arrive in Chennai

Chennai, India on March 6, 2025

9:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your trip with a morning stroll along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and vibrant atmosphere.

INR0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional South Indian breakfast with crispy dosas and steaming idlis, paired with flavorful chutneys and sambar.

INR300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Fort St. George

Explore the historical Fort St. George, the first fortress built by the British in India, and visit the museum to understand its significance.

INR100, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Aasai Vegetarian Restaurant

Treat yourself to a lunch featuring a variety of North and South Indian vegetarian dishes, all authentic and delicious.

INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere.

INR0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at T Nagar

Explore T Nagar, a bustling shopping area famous for its silk sarees, gold jewelry, and vibrant street market.

Varies, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Chettinad dinner featuring spicy chicken curry and flavorful biryani, a must-try for any foodie.

INR800, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India on March 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast featuring crispy vadas and delicious filter coffee.

INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture and ocean views.

INR40, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Pancha Rathas

Admire the incredible rock-cut architecture of the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic structures representing different forms of art.

INR50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Water's Edge Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch with a view of the sea, offering fresh local catches and traditional South Indian flavors.

INR600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Witness the world's largest bas-relief, depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, an excellent example of artistic finesse.

INR40, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at the serene Mahabalipuram Beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the coastal scenery.

INR0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Moonrakers Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner featuring local seafood dishes in a cozy beachfront setting, perfect for a relaxing conclusion to the day.

INR700, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: Day Trip to Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India on March 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Mayura

Enjoy a traditional breakfast of pongal and coconut chutney, a signature dish in South Indian cuisine.

INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple

Explore the oldest temple in Kanchipuram, renowned for its intricate carvings and a significant religious site.

INR0, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Marvel at the grandeur of this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its huge gopuram and sacred mango tree.

INR0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan, Kanchipuram

Relish authentic South Indian meals including a variety of flavorful thalis and parottas.

INR350, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kanchipuram Silk Weaving Centre

Learn about the traditional silk weaving techniques and shop for exquisite silk sarees crafted by local artisans.

Varies, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Chennai

Travel back to Chennai for a leisurely evening in the city.

INR200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

Experience a local favorite with spicy Chettinad chicken and a steaming bowl of biryani.

INR600, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kanchipuram

Day 4: Explore Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India on March 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a French breakfast with croissants and fresh lemonade, experiencing the colonial charm of Pondicherry.

INR350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Discover the tranquil environment at Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual retreat known for its teachings and meditation practices.

INR0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Explore the history of Pondicherry through its unique exhibits and artifacts reflecting the city's colonial and Indian heritage.

INR20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Treat yourself to an exquisite mix of Indian and Pondicherry cuisine, served in a stylish and casual setting.

INR500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Stroll Along Promenade Beach

Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque promenade, soaking in the views of the Bay of Bengal.

INR0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Chunnambar Boat House

Relax and take a boat ride to the nearby Paradise Beach, enjoying the scenic beauty along the backwaters.

INR400, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Finish the day with a taste of French-inspired cuisine and excellent desserts in a delightful ambiance.

INR800, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 5: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India on March 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bakeshop

Start with fresh pastries and a big cup of coffee to fuel your day ahead.

INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Government Museum

Discover the vast collections of art, archaeology, and natural history at one of India's oldest museums.

INR50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Birla Planetarium

Get amazed by interactive exhibits and shows about the universe at one of Chennai's major attractions.

INR100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Barbeque Nation

Enjoy a delightful spread of grilled dishes and a lavish buffet ensuring a satisfying experience.

INR1200, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Mylapore

Visit the iconic Mylapore area known for its temples, local markets, and cultural vibes.

Varies, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Taste delectable seafood offerings in a laid-back atmosphere reminiscent of a seaside shack.

INR700, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 6: Cultural Exploration

Chennai, India on March 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with fluffy idlis and piping hot sambar, a classic South Indian breakfast.

INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Vadapalani Murugan Temple

Experience the colorful festivities and stunning architecture of this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan.

INR0, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Theosophical Society

Explore the peaceful gardens and libraries of the Theosophical Society, and learn about its fascinating history.

INR0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Lunch Box

Savor home-cooked style meals and a wide variety of options for a fulfilling lunch experience.

INR400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit DakshinaChitra

Dive into South Indian culture with exhibitions on traditional crafts, dance, and music in this heritage village.

INR100, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Spice Route

Enjoy an exquisite culinary journey through South and Southeast Asian cuisine in a beautifully themed restaurant.

INR1200, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 7: Departure from Chennai

Chennai, India on March 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chick's Biryani

Indulge in a fulfilling meal featuring their famous biryani and raita to start your day right.

INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-minute Shopping at Phoenix Market City

Explore this large shopping mall for last-minute gifts and souvenirs before heading to the airport.

Varies, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at BBQ Nation

Enjoy one last lavish buffet to end your trip with a bang, with grilled treats and plenty of options.

INR1200, 2 hours

2:30PM

Departure from Chennai Airport

It’s time to say goodbye to Chennai as you prepare for departure.

INR0, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Chennai

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7 Days 6 Nights Chennai Adventure

Day 1: Arrive in Chennai

9:00AM

11:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 2: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 3: Day Trip to Kanchipuram

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Explore Pondicherry

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 5: Return to Chennai

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

Day 6: Cultural Exploration

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 7: Departure from Chennai

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

More About chennai, india

Plan Your chennai, india Trip