Chennai India 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Chennai Itinerary:

This itinerary balances cultural exploration with the city’s vibrant modern side. It’s a suggestion, feel free to tailor it to your own interests!

Day 1: Arrive in Chennai & Explore Mylapore

  • Morning: Arrive at Chennai International Airport (MAA).
    • Things to know:
      • Currency exchange available at the airport.
      • Pre-book taxis or use ride-hailing apps for transportation.
  • Afternoon: Settle into your hotel in Mylapore, a historic and vibrant neighborhood.
    • Recommendation: Stay at the Raintree Chennai (luxury) or Hotel Saravanaa Bhavan (mid-range) for their central location and good reviews.
  • Evening: Enjoy delicious South Indian cuisine at Saravanaa Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant chain in India, known for its authentic South Indian taste.

Things to see & do:

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Immerse yourself in the ancient architecture and vibrant rituals of this historic temple.
  • San Thome Basilica: Witness the beautiful basilica and learn about its history as one of the oldest churches in India.
  • Mylapore Tank: Explore the serene tank and admire the colorful fish and lotus flowers.

Day 2: Marina Beach & Cultural Exploration

  • Morning: Visit Marina Beach, the world’s second-longest urban beach, for a leisurely stroll and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the Kapaleeshwarar Temple in detail.
    • Government Museum: Discover a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing India’s rich history and art.

  • Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and a unique experience.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, a local institution famous for its soft idlis and flavorful chutneys.

Day 3: Temples & History

  • Morning: Explore the intricate architecture of San Thome Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Fort St. George, a historical landmark that houses the state legislature and the Tamil Nadu government’s administrative offices.
  • Things to do: Learn about the history of the Madras Presidency at the Fort Museum, admire the colonial architecture, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the St. Mary’s Church.

Dinner: Savor authentic South Indian flavors with a traditional “banana leaf” meal at The Annalakshmi Restaurant.

Things to know:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions in Chennai, which can be hot and humid.

Day 4: Religious Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a popular spot for religious ceremonies and rituals.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the vibrant street markets surrounding Mylapore Tank.
    • Enjoy a relaxing beach walk along the Marina Beach promenade, taking in the sunrise and the local fishermen’s activities**.
    • Experience the spiritual atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the rituals and traditions of the Parthasarathy Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna.

  • Things to know:

    • Respectful attire: Wear traditional attire with long pants or skirts covering your legs, and cover your shoulders when visiting temples.
    • Photography rules: Check for any restrictions on photography before entering the temple.

  • Dinner: Indulge in a flavorful South Indian dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Day 5: Art & Culture

  • Visit the Government Museum again, focusing on its art collections, including bronze sculptures and ancient Tamil literature.
  • Explore the Kapaleeshwarar Temple with its intricate carvings and historical significance.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at Ratna Cafe (famous for their idli and dosa) before exploring the city’s other offerings.

Things to know:

  • Traffic in Chennai can be challenging, especially during rush hour. Plan extra time for transportation.
  • Explore local culture: Consider visiting the vibrant Sowcarpet Market for a taste of Mumbai street life and picking up some delicious street food, or delve into the world of Tamil cinema with a visit to Sathyam Cinemas.

Day 6: Relaxing & Cultural Experiences

  • Enjoy a leisurely morning:

    • Visit the Dakshin Chitra Museum, an ethnographic museum that showcases South Indian life and culture.

  • Relax by the beach:

    • Walk along the Marina Beach in the evening, watching the sunset and locals enjoying themselves.

  • Explore the Madras Literary Society.

Things to do:

  • Discover the historical and cultural significance of the city’s iconic landmark, the San T. George, while exploring its rich history and architecture.
  • Shop for souvenirs: Browse the shops in Mylapore for traditional crafts, textiles, and jewelry.

Day 7: Departure & Last Minute Shopping

  • Enjoy a final South Indian breakfast at Ratna Cafe.

Things to know:

  • Learn about the history of the Madras Presidency: Visit “The Hindu” office, a historic newspaper that often reflects on the city’s rich past.
  • Pick up some last-minute souvenirs from the local market.

For the food lovers:

  • Savor the South Indian flavors: Explore the unique and delicious culinary offerings of “The Marina Beach” area, known for its traditional food stalls and street vendors. Enjoy authentic dishes like “Kothu Parotta” (a popular street food) or “Murugan Idli” with a variety of chutneys.

Tips:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat the heat and humidity.
  • Dress comfortably: Chennai is hot and humid, so opt for lightweight clothing and footwear.
  • Bargain wisely: Prices at markets are often negotiable, especially in the case of souvenirs.

Remember: This is just a sample itinerary. You can customize it based on your interests and time constraints. For example, you could replace a visit to a temple with a visit to a different attraction or activity.