Chennai, India-2-day-itinerary

Chennai, India: A 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Start at Marina Beach: One of the longest urban beaches in the world, it’s a great place to watch the sunrise and take a leisurely stroll.
  • Fort St. George: Head to this historic fort that houses the Tamil Nadu State Government Museum and the St. Mary’s Church.

Afternoon (12:00 pm - 4:00 pm)

  • Lunch at Saravana Bhavan: Try some delicious South Indian cuisine at this popular vegetarian restaurant.
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple: Visit this ancient Shiva temple, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
  • San Thome Basilica: Explore this beautiful Catholic basilica that’s said to house the relics of St. Thomas.

Evening (4:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • Take a stroll at Nungambakkam: This upscale neighborhood is known for its trendy cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.
  • Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop: Savor some mouth-watering idlis (steamed rice cakes) and dosas (fermented crepes) at this iconic eatery.

Day 2:

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Government Museum: Visit this museum to learn about Chennai’s history, art, and culture.
  • National Art Gallery: Explore the stunning collection of Indian paintings and sculptures.

Afternoon (12:00 pm - 4:00 pm)

  • Lunch at The Flying Elephant: Enjoy some international cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients at this trendy restaurant.
  • Chennai Rail Museum: Visit this unique museum that showcases India’s railway history.
  • Birla Planetarium: Catch a show or exhibition at this popular planetarium.

Evening (4:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • Take a sunset walk at Elliot’s Beach: End your day with a peaceful walk along this scenic beach in Besant Nagar.
  • Dinner at The Wharf: Savor some seafood and international cuisine at this waterfront restaurant.

Where to Stay:

  • The Park Chennai: A luxurious hotel with modern amenities and a great location.
  • ITC Grand Chola: An upscale hotel with stunning architecture and excellent service.
  • Budget options: Ginger Chennai, Red Lollipop Hostel

Transportation:

  • Auto-rickshaws (Tuk-tuks): A convenient way to get around the city, but be prepared to haggle prices.
  • Metro: Chennai has a well-connected metro system that’s easy to navigate.
  • Taxi services: Ola and Uber operate in Chennai, making it easy to book a ride.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Tamil is the primary language spoken in Chennai, but many locals also speak English.
  • Dress code: Dress modestly when visiting temples and churches.
  • Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency.
  • Weather: Chennai can be hot and humid throughout the year, so stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Tips:

  • Bargain at markets: Expect to haggle prices at local markets and bazaars.
  • Try local cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying authentic South Indian dishes like idlis, dosas, and vadas.
  • Stay safe: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Chennai Music Season: If you’re visiting in December or January, catch some amazing Carnatic music performances during the Chennai Music Season.
  • Kollywood: Chennai is home to India’s Tamil film industry, Kollywood. You can take a tour of the studios or attend a movie premiere.
  • Local festivals: Chennai celebrates various festivals like Pongal (harvest festival) and Vinayaka Chathurthi (Ganesh festival).