4 day itinerary for Chennai
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Shopping, eating, nightlife
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Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City
- Start your day by visiting Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore and enjoy the beautiful sunrise.
- Afterward, head to the historic Fort St. George, which houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the Secretariat. Explore the museum inside the fort to learn about Chennai's colonial past.
- For lunch, indulge in some authentic South Indian cuisine at a local restaurant. Don't miss trying the famous dosas, idlis, and filter coffee.
- In the afternoon, visit the Government Museum, which showcases a vast collection of art, archaeology, and natural history. Spend some time admiring the ancient artifacts and sculptures.
- In the evening, explore the vibrant shopping streets of T. Nagar and [Pondy Bazaar](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Pondy%20Bazaar&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). You'll find a wide range of shops selling traditional silk sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.
- End your day by enjoying a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city. Try some Chettinad cuisine or feast on a seafood platter.
Day 2: Temples and Cultural Heritage
- Start your day by visiting the Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, one of the oldest and most famous temples in Chennai. Marvel at the intricate Dravidian architecture and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
- Afterward, explore the nearby San Thome Basilica, a beautiful church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.
- For lunch, head to the famous Saravana Bhavan or Murugan Idli Shop and savor some delicious vegetarian food.
- In the afternoon, visit the DakshinaChitra Museum, located on the outskirts of Chennai. This open-air museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of South India through traditional houses, artifacts, and performances.
- In the evening, catch a traditional dance or music performance at the Kalakshetra Foundation, a renowned institution for Indian classical arts.
- Wrap up your day by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene in Chennai. Head to places like Express Avenue or Phoenix Marketcity, where you'll find a mix of bars, pubs, and live music venues.
Day 3: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram
- Take a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour's drive from Chennai.
- Explore the famous Shore Temple, a stunning example of Pallava architecture, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal.
- Visit the Five Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples that are intricately carved and resemble chariots.
- Don't miss the Arjuna's Penance, a massive bas-relief that depicts scenes from the Mahabharata.
- Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the beachside shacks and spend some time relaxing on the beautiful Mahabalipuram Beach.
- On your way back to Chennai, stop by the Crocodile Bank, a reptile zoo that houses various species of crocodiles and alligators.
Day 4: Shopping and Farewell
- Start your day by exploring the vibrant shopping district of [Pondy Bazaar](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Pondy%20Bazaar&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Shop for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs at the numerous shops and street vendors.
- Visit the famous Chennai Citi Center, a popular mall that offers a mix of local and international brands.
- For lunch, head to the famous Saravana Bhavan or Murugan Idli Shop and savor some delicious vegetarian food.
- In the afternoon, visit the Phoenix Marketcity, one of the largest malls in Chennai. Explore the various stores, catch a movie at the multiplex, or enjoy some indoor activities like bowling or gaming.
- In the evening, take a relaxing stroll along the Besant Nagar Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
- End your trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can savor the delicious food while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Remember to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences and the opening hours of the attractions. Enjoy your time in Chennai!
Places of interest
T. Nagar
T. Nagar is a bustling commercial and residential neighborhood located in the heart of Chennai, India. Known for its vibrant shopping scene, it is home to numerous retail outlets, boutiques, and traditional markets offering a wide range of products. The area also boasts several renowned educational institutions, restaurants serving diverse cuisines, and cultural landmarks. With its lively atmosphere and convenient location, T. Nagar is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Pondy Bazaar
Pondy Bazaar is a bustling shopping district located in Chennai, India. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of shops offering clothing, accessories, electronics, and more. The area is popular among locals and tourists alike for its affordable prices and variety of products.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Mylapore, Chennai. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in the city. The temple is known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and intricate sculptures. It attracts devotees and tourists from all over the world who come to seek blessings and admire the rich cultural heritage of South India.
Saravana Bhavan
Saravana Bhavan Chennai is a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. With a warm and inviting ambiance, it offers a wide range of delicious dishes including dosas, idlis, vadas, and various traditional thalis. The restaurant is renowned for its quality food, prompt service, and reasonable prices.
Murugan Idli Shop
Murugan Idli Shop Chennai is a popular South Indian restaurant known for its delicious and authentic idlis. With a focus on quality and taste, they offer a wide variety of idlis along with other traditional South Indian dishes. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and friendly staff, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Arjuna's Penance
Arjuna's Penance, also known as Descent of the Ganges, is a famous bas-relief sculpture located in Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), near Chennai, India. It is one of the largest open-air rock sculptures in the world and dates back to the 7th century. The sculpture depicts various mythological figures, including gods, demigods, animals, and celestial beings, carved on two massive granite boulders. It is believed to depict the penance performed by Arjuna, a hero from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, to obtain Lord Shiva's weapon. The intricate details and artistic beauty of Arjuna's Penance make it a popular tourist attraction and an important cultural heritage site in Chennai.
Pondy Bazaar
Pondy Bazaar is a bustling shopping district located in Chennai, India. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of shops offering clothing, accessories, electronics, and more. The area is popular among locals and tourists alike for its affordable prices and variety of products.
Chennai Citi Center
Chennai Citi Center is a popular shopping mall located in the heart of Chennai, India. It offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors to enjoy. With its modern architecture and spacious interiors, the mall provides a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience.
Besant Nagar Beach
Besant Nagar Beach is a popular beach located in the neighborhood of Besant Nagar in Chennai. It is known for its scenic beauty, clean sand, and clear waters. The beach is surrounded by several restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a perfect spot for tourists and locals alike.