Chennai, India-4-day-itinerary

August 8, 2024

Day 1: Marina Beach and Fort St. George

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Marina Beach (8am-6pm), one of the longest beaches in the world. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoy the sea breeze, and try your hand at water sports like surfing or paddleboarding.
Lunch: Head to Saravana Bhavan (11am-9:30pm) for some delicious South Indian food. Try their famous idlis, dosas, and vadas.
Afternoon: Visit Fort St. George (9am-5pm), the oldest English fortress in India, which now houses a museum showcasing the city’s history.
Evening: Relax at your hotel or take a stroll along the beach.

Day 2: Kapaleeswarar Temple and Elliot Beach

Morning: Visit the beautiful Kapaleeswarar Temple (5am-12pm, 4pm-8pm), a famous Shiva temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Be sure to respect local customs and dress modestly.
Lunch: Grab some quick bites at Annapoorna (11am-10:30pm), a popular eatery serving South Indian cuisine.
Afternoon: Head to Elliot Beach (8am-6pm) for some relaxation time. You can also visit the nearby Elliot’s Beach Park, which offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Murugan Idli Shop (11am-10:30pm), known for its delicious idlis and dosas.

Day 3: Government Museum and B.M. Birla Planetarium

Morning: Visit the Government Museum (9:30am-5:00pm), which houses a vast collection of Indian art, archaeology, and natural history.
Lunch: Try some local street food at Koyambedu Market (11am-8pm).
Afternoon: Head to the B.M. Birla Planetarium (10:30am-5:00pm) for a fascinating journey through space and time. Catch a show in the digital planetarium.
Evening: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Teynampet, known for its upscale shopping malls, restaurants, and cafes.

Day 4: VGP Universal Kingdom and Marina Mall

Morning: Visit VGP Universal Kingdom (10am-6pm), a popular theme park with roller coasters, water rides, and live shows.
Lunch: Head back to the city for lunch at The Raintree Hotel’s restaurant, which serves international cuisine.
Afternoon: Spend some time shopping or browsing the stalls at Marina Mall (11am-10pm), a modern mall with a range of stores, cafes, and restaurants.

Where to Stay

Some recommended hotels in Chennai include:

The Raintree Hotel (4-star) - Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
Hotel Ambassador (3-star) - A budget-friendly option with clean rooms, a gym, and a restaurant serving South Indian food.

Things to Know

Weather: Chennai has a tropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.
Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or other cultural sites.
Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

Transportation

Metro: Chennai has an efficient metro system that connects major parts of the city. You can buy tickets from the ticket vending machines at stations.
Auto-Rickshaws: These are the most common mode of transportation in Chennai. Make sure to negotiate prices before you start your journey.

Tips and Other Things

Water Bottles: Buy a refillable water bottle and fill it up at local water points or restaurants.
Power Adapters: Bring a universal power adapter to keep your devices charged.
Local Language: Learn some basic Tamil phrases like “Vanakkam” (hello) and “Nandri” (thank you).

Budget Breakdown

Other Activities

Take a Yoga Class: Visit the Yoga House studio in Chennai for a rejuvenating yoga session.
Go on a Food Tour: Join a guided food tour to explore the local cuisine and street food scene.

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on individual preferences.