Chennai, India 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Chennai, India

Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is a treasure trove of rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and modern amenities. Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1:

Morning

  • Fort St. George: Start your day with a visit to Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Explore the fort’s museum, which showcases the history of Chennai and the East India Company.
  • St. Mary’s Church: Located within the fort complex, this 17th-century church is one of the oldest Anglican churches in India.

Afternoon

  • Marina Beach: Take a leisurely stroll along the second-longest urban beach in the world. Enjoy the sunset and street food stalls.
  • San Thome Basilica: Visit this beautiful basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles.

Evening

  • Kapaleeswarar Temple: Explore this ancient Shiva temple, famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
  • Dinner at Saravana Bhavan: Savor delicious South Indian cuisine at this popular restaurant chain.

Accommodation:

  • The Leela Palace Chennai: Experience luxury and comfort at this 5-star hotel, located near the airport.
  • Alternative: Budget-friendly options like Treebo Trend: A comfortable stay with modern amenities.

Day 2:

Morning

  • Government Museum: Visit this museum to learn about Tamil Nadu’s history, art, and culture. The museum complex also houses the National Art Gallery and the Connemara Public Library.
  • Brahmin’s Coffee Bar: Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at this iconic cafe.

Afternoon

  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Spend the afternoon exploring the largest zoological park in India, home to over 1,500 species of animals.
  • Semmozhi Poonga: Visit this beautiful botanical garden, featuring a variety of plants and flowers.

Evening

  • Chennai’s Street Food: Indulge in street food at Nandanam or T. Nagar, and try popular dishes like idlis, dosas, and vadas.
  • Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop: Savor traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine at this popular eatery.

Day 3:

Morning

  • Mahabalipuram: Take a day trip to Mahabalipuram (approximately 1 hour from Chennai), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the famous Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance.
  • Butter Chicken at A2B: Try this popular South Indian dish at this renowned restaurant chain.

Afternoon

  • Chennai’s Markets: Visit T. Nagar or Nandanam for a shopping spree, featuring everything from traditional clothing to handicrafts.
  • Spencer Plaza: Explore this iconic shopping mall, offering a range of international brands and local products.

Evening

  • Dinner at The Flying Elephant: Enjoy contemporary Indian cuisine with a twist at this trendy restaurant.
  • End the trip with a relaxing stroll at Elliot’s Beach or a sunset view at Broken Bridge.

Things to Know:

  • Chennai is hot and humid, so stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples and churches.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-10 am and 4-7 pm) to avoid traffic congestion.

Transportation:

  • Chennai Metro: An efficient way to travel across the city, with a network of routes covering major attractions.
  • Autorickshaws: A convenient option for shorter distances, but be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Taxis and Cabs: Available at airports, railway stations, and tourist spots.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Tamil phrases to interact with locals.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long queues at popular attractions.
  • Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Try to avoid eating from street vendors to minimize health risks.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Chennai’s Music Season: If you’re visiting in December, experience the city’s vibrant music scene during the annual music festival.
  • Pongal Celebrations: Witness the harvest festival celebrations in January, featuring traditional dances, music, and food.
  • Tamil Nadu’s Festivals: Chennai celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as Navaratri (September-October) and Karthigai Deepam (November).

With this itinerary, you’re ready to explore the vibrant city of Chennai!