Chennai, India 7 Day Itinerary

Chennai Travel Guide: 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Chennai International Airport and take a taxi or metro to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Take a stroll along the beach, enjoy the sunset, and try some street food.
  • Evening: Head to the nearby Anna Salai (Mount Road) for a delicious dinner at Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Treebo Trend Aranthangi Hotel
  • Mid-range: The Residency Towers
  • Luxury: ITC Grand Chola

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

  • Morning: Visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a ancient Shiva temple in Mylapore. Explore the intricate carvings and architecture.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu dinner at Dakshin, a restaurant serving authentic South Indian cuisine.

Day 3: Historical Landmarks

  • Morning: Visit Fort St. George, a historic fort built by the British in 1640. Explore the museum inside the fort, which showcases the history of Chennai.
  • Afternoon: Head to the St. Mary’s Church, one of the oldest churches in India, built in 1680.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the scenic Elliot’s Beach and enjoy the sunset.

Day 4: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Mahabalipuram (approximately 1 hour from Chennai), a historic town famous for its rock-cut temples and monuments.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the intricate carvings and architecture.
  • Evening: Return to Chennai and enjoy dinner at The Flying Elephant, a rooftop restaurant with stunning city views.

Day 5: Shopping and Leisure

  • Morning: Visit the Spencer Plaza, one of the oldest shopping malls in India. Shop for souvenirs, clothes, and electronics.
  • Afternoon: Relax at the hotel or take a leisurely walk in the nearby Nungambakkam Lake Park.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel, a popular restaurant serving traditional South Indian cuisine.

Day 6: Spiritual Experience

  • Morning: Visit the Sri Parthasarathy Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Explore the intricate carvings and architecture.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Theosophical Society, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Wharf, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Adyar River.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport and take your return flight.

Transportation:

  • Metro: Chennai has an efficient metro system that connects most parts of the city.
  • Bus: Local buses are an affordable option, but can be crowded.
  • Taxi/Auto: Taxis and autos are readily available, but negotiate the fare before you start your journey.
  • Ola/Uber: Ride-hailing apps are popular in Chennai.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for the heat and humidity; stay hydrated and wear light, loose clothing.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or cultural institutions.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 4-7 pm) to avoid traffic congestion.
  • Learn some basic Tamil phrases to interact with locals.

Things to Know:

  • Chennai is a bustling metropolis, but it’s also known for its friendly and welcoming people.
  • The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of traditional and modern attractions.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in popular areas like Marina Beach and shopping malls.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Chennai!