Discover Chennai's Charm: Best 4-Day Budget Trip

Chennai on a shoestring: Soak up the culture and cuisine without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Chennai, located on the east coast of India, offers a unique cultural experience for budget travelers. Visitors can explore historic temples, museums, and markets while enjoying affordable street food and local transportation options. Accommodation options include budget hotels and guesthouses, making it easy to stretch your budget while still enjoying all that Chennai has to offer.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the Vibrant City of Chennai

  • Check into the affordable Hotel Pearl International, a 15-minute drive from the famous Marina Beach.
  • Start your day with a visit to the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant markets in George Town and bargain for souvenirs to take home.
  • Head to the Government Museum to learn about the art, culture and history of Tamil Nadu.
  • Satisfy your hunger at Hotel Saravana Bhavan, a popular restaurant chain serving authentic South Indian dishes.
Day 2

Discover the Magnificent Forts and Palaces of Chennai

  • Visit the Fort St. George, the first British fortress built in India, and explore the museum inside.
  • Take a short walk to the St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India.
  • Head to the majestic Government House, also called the Raj Bhavan, and marvel at its grandeur.
  • Explore the stunning Victoria Public Hall, a beautiful example of British architecture.
  • Have lunch at the famous Amethyst Cafe, serving delicious food in a charming courtyard setting.
Day 3

Immerse Yourself in the Rich Culture of Chennai

  • Start your day with a visit to the Kalakshetra Foundation, a cultural academy focusing on Indian classical dance, music and art.
  • Then head to the DakshinaChitra, a living museum showcasing the heritage and culture of South India through exhibits, workshops and traditional performances.
  • Take a break for lunch at The Marina, a popular restaurant serving delicious seafood.
  • Visit the Mylapore neighborhood, known for its lively streets, ancient temples and bustling markets.
  • End your day with a visit to the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, a must-visit for animal lovers.
Day 4

Unwind and Relax by the Beach

  • Head to the beautiful Elliot's Beach, also known as Besant Nagar Beach, for a relaxing day by the sea.
  • Take a dip in the calm waters or enjoy a leisurely walk on the beach.
  • Visit the Ashtalakshmi Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
  • Have a delicious lunch at Pupil, a beachfront restaurant offering a unique blend of Indian and global cuisine.
  • End your day with a visit to the VGP Universal Kingdom, an amusement park with thrilling rides and attractions.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Chennai by plane is to fly into Chennai International Airport from your nearest major airport.

Car

If you prefer to drive, the best way to get to Chennai is to take the National Highway 48 from Bangalore to Chennai. It's important to note that Indian driving laws can be confusing for tourists and it's recommended to hire a driver.

Train

If you want to travel to Chennai by train, you can catch a train to Chennai Central Station from major cities throughout India.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Chennai, you can catch a ferry to the nearby Ennore Port and then take a taxi or bus to Chennai.

Bus

Getting to Chennai by bus is easy as there are many bus services operating from nearby cities. The best way is to look for a reputable bus service and book in advance to secure a seat.

Destination

Chennai

Welcome to a city where traffic lights are treated as mere suggestions and where the spiciest thing you'll taste is the weather. Welcome to Chennai!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

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Chennai Calling: A 4-Day Romantic Adventure

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Chennai Culture & Beach Day Adventure

Chennai, the fourth largest city in India, offers tourists a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. With its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant street food scene, visitors can experience the diversity of India in one city. Must-sees include the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Marina Beach, and the Government Museum.