3-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Chennai, India

Day 1: Heritage and Culture

Chennai, India on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with authentic South Indian breakfast such as idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this iconic and highly rated restaurant open from 7:00am to 11:00pm.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this beautiful 7th-century Dravidian architecture temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a major religious and cultural landmark, open from 6:00am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 9:00pm.
INR0, 1h0m

11:00am

St. Thomas Mount

Visit this historic hillock known for the St. Thomas Church and panoramic views of the city, perfect for experiencing Chennai’s colonial past. Open all day.
INR0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Buhari Hotel

Enjoy traditional Chennai non-vegetarian specialties like Chicken 65 and biryani at this popular eatery, open from 11:30am to 10:30pm.
INR600, 1h0m

2:00pm

Government Museum, Chennai

Explore masterpieces in art, archaeology, and anthropology at India’s second oldest museum, open 9:00am to 5:00pm except Fridays.
INR15, 2h0m

4:30pm

Marina Beach

Relax and take a leisurely walk along Asia’s longest urban beach and watch the sunset. The beach is open 24 hours.
INR0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Bangala

Dine in a charming colonial bungalow serving authentic Chettinad cuisine, open from 7:00pm to 11:00pm. Reserve a table in advance.
INR1500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Spirituality and Beachside

Chennai, India on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy soft idlis and spicy chutneys at this famed local breakfast spot, open 6:00am to 11:30am.
INR250, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Parthasarathy Temple

Discover one of Chennai’s oldest temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, displaying exquisite Vijayanagara architecture. Open 6:00am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
INR0, 1h0m

10:30am

Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Visit the Neo-Gothic style cathedral built over the tomb of Saint Thomas, an important pilgrimage site. Open 6:00am to 7:00pm.
INR0, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Dindigul Thalappakatti

Savor the famous Dindigul biryani, a spicy and flavorful specialty, at this well-known chain open from 11:00am to 10:00pm.
INR500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Elliot’s Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon walking or sitting by this quieter beach area perfect for a peaceful experience.
INR0, 2h0m

3:30pm

DakshinaChitra Museum

Visit this cultural heritage museum showcasing traditional South Indian village lifestyle, arts, and crafts. Open 9:30am to 6:00pm, closed Mondays.
INR150, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Marina

Enjoy fresh seafood right by the sea at this beachside restaurant, open 6:00pm to 11:00pm.
INR1200, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Shopping and Museums

Chennai, India on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Have a light South Indian breakfast with their signature filter coffee, open 7:00am to 11:00pm.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Shopping at T Nagar

Explore Chennai’s bustling shopping district for silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts. Shops usually open by 10:00am and close by 9:00pm.
INR0, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Taste classic vegetarian South Indian dishes in this popular local chain, open 11:00am to 11:00pm.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Fort St. George

Tour the historic British fort which houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and the Fort Museum, open 9:00am to 5:30pm.
INR15, 1h30m

3:45pm

Relax at Besant Nagar Park

Enjoy the greenery and peaceful environment of this seaside urban park, perfect for a break before dinner.
INR0, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Peshawri

Conclude your trip with North Indian specialties in elegant traditional decor, open from 7:00pm to 11:00pm. Advance booking recommended.
INR1800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability