4-Day Chennai Itinerary by Train and Bus with Comfortable Stays at AVDI

Day 1: Central Chennai Sights

Chennai, India on May 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with traditional South Indian idlis and dosas at this popular spot, open from 6:00 AM, located conveniently near your stay at AVDI.
INR100, 1h0m

9:30AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit this iconic Dravidian-style temple in Mylapore, a short bus ride from central Chennai, open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Marvel at its colorful gopuram and rich cultural heritage.
Free, 1h30m

11:30AM

San Thome Basilica

Explore this beautiful Gothic-style church built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It’s easily accessible by bus from Kapaleeshwarar.
Free, 1h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Rayar’s Mess

Enjoy a hearty South Indian vegetarian meal at this famous traditional eatery near Mylapore, known for its authentic taste and affordable prices.
INR150, 1h0m

2:30PM

Visit Government Museum Chennai

Explore Tamil Nadu's rich history, art, and archaeology displays at the second oldest museum in India, open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, located in Egmore.
INR15, 1h30m

4:30PM

Stroll around Marina Beach

Relax and enjoy one of the longest urban beaches in the world with local vendors and sea breeze, easily accessible by bus. Ideal for a late afternoon leisure walk.
Free, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Buhari Hotel

Dine on Indian and Mughlai cuisine at this well-known Chennai restaurant near your accommodation, open till 10:30 PM.
INR300, 1h0m
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Day 2: North Chennai Culture

Chennai, India on May 5, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Start with authentic South Indian breakfast of idli, vada, and filter coffee at this famous chain, open from 6:00 AM.
INR120, 1h0m

9:00AM

Valluvar Kottam

Visit this monument dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. Open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, accessible by bus from central Chennai.
INR10, 1h0m

10:30AM

Fort St. George

Tour this historical fort that houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and museum, open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM with a small entry fee.
INR15, 1h30m

12:30PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Enjoy flavorful Chettinad cuisine, known for its spicy meats and rice dishes, at this highly rated place near Fort St. George.
INR250, 1h0m

2:00PM

Marina Beach Relaxation

Spend the afternoon relaxing or walking along the Marina Beach, watching fishermen and local vendors, perfect for unwinding.
Free, 1h30m

4:00PM

Express Avenue Mall

Shop or enjoy a coffee break at Chennai’s popular mall, open till 10:00 PM, easily reached by bus from the beach.
Variable, 1h30m

7:30PM

Dinner at Dakshin

Experience refined South Indian dining focusing on traditional dishes in a comfortable setting, located in the Crowne Plaza Chennai.
INR800, 1h30m
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Day 3: South Chennai & Beach

Chennai, India on May 6, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Enjoy a filling vegetarian breakfast with a variety of South Indian options, operating from 6:00 AM onwards.
INR100, 1h0m

8:30AM

Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar)

Visit this popular and quieter beach ideal for morning walk or jog, with local street food available. Open all day.
Free, 1h30m

11:00AM

Theosophical Society

Walk through the serene 260-acre garden and visit the historic headquarters of the society, open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Free, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Marina Restaurant

Savor authentic Tamil Nadu seafood dishes at this popular beachside restaurant near Elliot’s Beach.
INR350, 1h0m

3:00PM

Guindy National Park

Explore this small but unique national park located within the city, best open for visitors till 6:00 PM.
INR20, 1h30m

5:00PM

Shopping at Phoenix MarketCity

Visit this large shopping mall for souvenirs and local crafts, with many eateries and entertainment options, open till 10:00 PM.
Variable, 2h0m

7:30PM

Dinner at Little Italy

End the day with delicious vegetarian Italian dishes, a welcome change from local food, located at Phoenix Mall.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 4: Mahabalipuram Day Trip

Chennai, India on May 7, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at AVDI

Have an early and simple breakfast at your accommodation before starting the day trip to Mahabalipuram.
Included, 0h30m

8:00AM

Train or Bus to Mahabalipuram

Travel by bus or train (via Chengalpattu) to Mahabalipuram, roughly 1.5 to 2 hours from Chennai, to visit UNESCO World Heritage monuments.
INR100, 2h0m

10:00AM

Shore Temple

Explore the magnificent 8th-century Shore Temple open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, an architectural marvel by the sea.
INR40, 1h0m

11:30AM

Pancha Rathas

Visit these monolithic rock-cut temples nearby, showing early Pallava architecture, included in ticket prices, open same hours.
Included, 1h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy fresh seafood and Indian dishes with a sea view at this popular restaurant in Mahabalipuram.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30PM

Arjuna's Penance and Krishna’s Butterball

Witness the gigantic open-air rock carving and the famous gigantic balanced rock, perfect for photo ops and history lovers.
Included, 1h0m

4:00PM

Return to Chennai

Board bus or train back to Chennai, arriving by early evening for your rest at AVDI.
INR100, 2h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at AVDI or nearby

Have a peaceful dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant with local specialties, reflecting on the trip.
Variable, 1h0m
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