DAY 1
Departure from Chennai
Marina Beach: Start your day early with a sunrise at Marina Beach, one of the world’s longest urban beaches. Take a peaceful walk and enjoy the morning ambiance.
Breakfast:
Chennai is Known for its traditional Tamil cuisine, including dishes like dosa, idli, sambar, and filter coffee. Enjoy authentic South Indian breakfast at a local restaurant. Some recommended places:
- Murugan Idli Shop - Enjoy authentic varities of idly and dosa
- Saravana Bhavan
Post breakfast, get ready for your day of sightseeing.
Start Sightseeing Visit
Kapaleeshwarar Temple: A stunning Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Mylapore. This temple is Known for its intricate carvings and cultural significance.
Santhome Basilica: A short drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple, this neo-Gothic church is built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus’ apostles.
Fort St. George: The first British fortress in India, housing a museum showcasing artifacts from the colonial era. Built by the British in 1644, it now houses a museum and the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly.
Government Museum: Visit the Government Museum in Egmore to explore its vast collection of artifacts, including the Bronze Gallery and archaeological displays.
Guindy National Park: Situated in the heart of Chennai, the park occupies 22 acres of land and was inaugurated on 14 August 1959 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India. It is the 8th-smallest National Park of India and one of the very few national parks situated inside a city.
Lunch:
Relish traditional Tamil cuisine at a renowned local restaurant. Suggested options: Dakshin (Crowne Plaza) or Annalakshmi.
Start Sightseeing Visit
Madras Crocodile Bank: The Croc Bank currently consists of a large reptile park near Chennai, Southern India, and a couple of field projects. The zoo sees close to half a million visitors per year making it one of the most popular tourist attractions along the famous East Coast Road.
Semmozhi Poonga: Semmoli Poonga, is a botanical garden in Chennai set up jointly by the Horticulture and Agricultural Engineering department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach): Spend a relaxing evening at this serene beach. Enjoy the sunset, local snacks, or visit the nearby Velankanni Church and Ashtalakshmi Temple.
Wrap up your day with shopping at T Nagar (Pondy Bazaar for budget shopping) or a modern mall like Phoenix Marketcity.