Chennai in Five: A Vibrant Travel Guide

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Chennai, India.

17 June 2023

Chennai, India is a bustling metropolis filled with culture and history. Visitors can explore ancient temples and monuments, indulge in delicious South Indian cuisine, and shop for traditional textiles and handicrafts. With its warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere, Chennai offers a truly immersive experience for any curious traveler.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Chennai

  • Check into the luxurious Taj Club House Hotel
  • Visit the iconic Kapaleeswarar Temple known for its Dravidian-style architecture
  • Stroll along the bustling Marina Beach where locals enjoy playing cricket and indulging in street food
  • Explore the charming neighborhood of Mylapore home to the historic San Thome Basilica
  • End the day with a traditional South Indian dinner at Dakshin, known for its impeccable service and delectable cuisine.
Day 2

Uncovering the City's Art and Culture Scene

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Amethyst Cafe, known for its tranquil ambiance and delicious organic food
  • Visit the Government Museum, a treasure trove of art, culture, and history of Tamil Nadu
  • Explore the city's vibrant street art scene by taking a walk around the Egmore Area.
  • Dive into the world of Bharatanatyam, a traditional Indian dance form, with a live performance at Kalakshetra Foundation.
  • Indulge in a fusion food experience at Fusion 9, known for its unique blend of Indian and international cuisine with a twist.
Day 3

Escape to a Serene Oasis

  • Take a short drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, known for its stunning rock-cut temples, caves, and sculptures.
  • Visit the ancient Shore Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
  • Take a boat ride to witness the beauty of Crocodile Bank, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting and breeding endangered species of crocodiles.
  • Relax with a spa session at the luxurious Ayurvedic resort of Taj Fisherman's Cove.
  • End the day with a sumptuous dinner at the charming Fisherman's Villa overlooking the beach.
Day 4

Experience the Bustling Markets and Shopping Scene

  • Visit the vibrant and colorful Pondy Bazaar, ideal for shopping for souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry.
  • Explore the famous T Nagar market, known for its gold jewelry and traditional Indian sarees.
  • Visit the chic Express Avenue mall for the latest in fashion and entertainment.
  • End the day with an authentic Chettinad cuisine experience at The Bangala, known for its traditional Tamil Nadu dishes with a twist.
Day 5

Embrace the Spiritual and Festive Side of Chennai

  • Visit the beautiful and tranquil ISKCON temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
  • Experience the exuberance and festivity of Chennai's music and dance scene with a performance at the Margazhi festival.
  • Relish a traditional South Indian lunch at the famous Ponnusamy Hotel.
  • Explore the lively and colorful local bazaars of George Town, ideal for buying handicrafts, spices, and traditional clothes.
  • End the day with a delightful dinner at the stylish, The Park Chennai Hotel, known for its innovative cuisine and chic ambiance.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Chennai in Two: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastlines

As a tourist in Chennai, India, you can explore the rich cultural heritage of the city by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Kapaleeswarar Temple or the Fort St. George museum. Experience the local cuisine at popular food joints like Murugan Idli Shop or try the famous filter coffee at Madras Coffee House. Don't miss out on the beautiful beaches of Marina and Elliot's as well as the bustling markets like T. Nagar and Pondy Bazaar.

Chennai on a Budget: 2 Days of Culture & Cuisine

Chennai, India is a culturally-rich city with a lot to explore, even if you're on a tight budget. You can visit the famous temples and museums while enjoying the local cuisine and street food while staying in affordable guesthouses and budget accommodation. The city's beautiful beaches and markets are also a must-see, making it a perfect destination for budget travelers.

Experience Colorful Chennai: A 3-Day Adventure

Chennai, known as India's 'Gateway to the South' is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore ancient temples and taste delicious South Indian cuisine. From shopping at local bazaars to visiting colonial and modern architecture, Chennai offers a unique and unforgettable experience to all who visit.

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

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.