Chennai, India 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Chennai

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its Idli, Dosa and Vada.
  • Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a 7th century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
  • Head to the San Thome Cathedral, built in the 16th century by the Portuguese.

Afternoon:

  • Visit Marina Beach, the second longest natural urban beach in the world. Enjoy a leisurely walk or simply relax on the beach.
  • Explore Government Museum which houses a rich collection of artifacts, sculptures and paintings.
  • Have lunch at Hotel Murugan Idli Kada for more authentic South Indian cuisine.

Evening:

  • Visit the Guindy National Park, a unique urban park and one of the few places in the world where you can find the Blackbuck antelope.
  • Experience the bustling local market at George Town and try some street food.

Night:

  • Have dinner at The Tavern, a cozy restaurant known for its international cuisine.
  • Rest at Taj Coromandel Chennai, a luxury hotel offering top-notch services and amenities.

Things to Know:

  • Chennai is known as the ‘Gateway to South India’.
  • English is widely spoken in Chennai, making it easy for tourists to communicate.
  • Carry enough cash as some places may not accept credit/debit cards.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Transportation:

  • Auto-rickshaws are the most common mode of transport in Chennai. Ensure that the meter is on before starting your journey.
  • You can also use Ola or Uber for a hassle-free ride.
  • Local buses are also available, but they might be a bit confusing for first-time visitors.

Day 2: Cultural and Historical Exploration

Morning:

  • Start your day with a visit to Sri Parthasarathy Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
  • Head to Cholamandalam Artist’s Village, a peaceful retreat showcasing contemporary art and sculptures.

Afternoon:

  • Visit Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is about 60 km from Chennai. It is famous for its rock-cut temples and sculptures.
  • Have lunch at a local restaurant in Mahabalipuram.

Evening:

  • Return to Chennai and visit Kalakshetra, a living heritage institution dedicated to the preservation of Indian arts, culture and crafts.
  • End your day with a traditional South Indian dinner at Ratna Cafe, a popular eatery in Chennai.

Tips:

  • Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Always negotiate the price before hiring an auto-rickshaw or taxi.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting crowded areas or using public transportation.
  • Enjoy exploring Chennai and its rich culture!