Chennai 10 days

The first English fortress in India, established in 1644. It now houses the Secretariat and Legislative Assembly of Tamil Nadu. Explore its museum for a glimpse into colonial history and artifacts.

• Visit the St. Mary's Church within the fort complex, one of the oldest Anglican churches in India.
• Look for the Flag Staff House, the former residence of the Governor.

Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal with a view of the Bay of Bengal. This mid-range restaurant offers a variety of local seafood and vegetarian dishes.

One of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching over 13 kilometers. It's a popular spot for locals to relax, exercise, and enjoy street food.

• Be mindful of your belongings as it can get crowded.
• Try some local snacks from the vendors, but choose reputable ones.

A stunning Gothic-style cathedral built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. It's a significant pilgrimage site and a beautiful example of colonial architecture.

One of India's oldest museums, housing a rich collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics. Don't miss the impressive South Indian bronzes and the Amaravati sculptures.

• Allocate extra time for the National Art Gallery within the complex.
• Photography may incur a small additional fee.

A popular vegetarian chain offering authentic South Indian thalis and snacks. It's a great place to experience local flavors in a clean and comfortable setting.

A magnificent Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its towering gopuram (gateway) adorned with intricate sculptures. The temple tank adds to its serene ambiance.

• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
• Remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum.

An open-air museum showcasing the art, architecture, lifestyle, and crafts of the four South Indian states. It features traditional houses and live craft demonstrations.

• Check their schedule for special events or craft workshops.
• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the diverse cultural displays.

A state-of-the-art planetarium offering engaging shows about astronomy and space. It's located within the Periyar Science and Technology Centre.

• Check show timings in advance, as they vary.
• The surrounding Periyar Science and Technology Centre also has interesting exhibits.

Famous for its authentic and delicious South Indian tiffin items, especially idlis and dosas. This is a no-frills eatery popular with locals.

A large, modern shopping mall offering a wide array of international and domestic brands, a multiplex cinema, and numerous dining options.

• Good place to escape the heat and find a variety of goods.
• Check for any ongoing events or promotions.

A historically significant mosque known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. It's particularly beautiful when illuminated at night.

• Dress modestly, especially women, covering head, arms, and legs.
• Visit during prayer times for a more spiritual experience, but be respectful of worshippers.

A renowned conservation center and zoo dedicated to reptiles. It houses a diverse collection of crocodiles, alligators, turtles, and snakes.

• Attend the feeding sessions for a more exciting viewing experience.
• The center is involved in significant conservation efforts.

A charming farm-to-table restaurant offering fresh, organic dishes in a serene, rustic setting. Known for its European-inspired cuisine and relaxed ambiance.

India's first artists' village, established by a group of artists in 1966. It features a gallery showcasing contemporary Indian art and a sculpture garden.

• You might be able to meet some of the artists in residence.
• Look for unique artworks to purchase as souvenirs.

A popular and cleaner alternative to Marina Beach, offering a pleasant promenade, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great spot for an evening stroll.

• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the numerous food stalls.
• The Karl Schmidt Memorial is a notable landmark here.

Explore the historic Mylapore district, centered around the large tank. This area is a hub of traditional Tamil culture, temples, and local life.

• Wander through the narrow streets to discover hidden temples and artisan shops.
• Experience the bustling local markets selling flowers, spices, and household goods.

Savor authentic Chettinad cuisine, known for its aromatic spices and rich flavors. This restaurant offers a refined dining experience.

A historic building that served as a refuge for Swami Vivekananda. It's now a museum dedicated to his life and teachings, showcasing his philosophy and contributions.

One of Chennai's oldest and most iconic shopping malls. While a bit dated, it offers a variety of shops, from local boutiques to popular chains.

• Good for picking up souvenirs and local handicrafts.
• Experience a slice of Chennai's retail history.

A picturesque fishing village and beach known for its surfing schools and serene environment. It's a great spot for water sports and relaxation.

• Consider taking a surfing lesson if you're adventurous.
• Enjoy the fresh sea air and the local fishing activities.

A popular restaurant offering fresh seafood and coastal specialties in a relaxed beachside setting. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with ocean views.

A renowned center for the preservation and promotion of traditional Indian arts, especially Bharatanatyam dance and classical music. It features beautiful architecture and a peaceful campus.

• Check their schedule for performances or workshops.
• Explore the campus and its unique architectural style.

While not in Chennai, a day trip to Pondicherry is possible. Alternatively, explore local Chennai street food stalls in areas like Adyar for authentic flavors.

• Be adventurous and try a variety of local snacks.
• Look for stalls with high turnover for freshness.

An ancient Shiva temple known for its healing powers. The temple architecture is typical of Dravidian style, with a large prakaram (courtyard).

• Visit during auspicious timings for a more vibrant atmosphere.
• Observe the intricate carvings and the serene environment.

A popular chain offering a unique live grill experience with a wide variety of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. It's known for its buffet style.

Offers guided walking tours that delve into Chennai's lesser-known history, architecture, and local life. A great way to discover hidden gems.

• Book your tour in advance as spots can be limited.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

Enjoy panoramic city views and refreshing drinks at this rooftop bar. It's an ideal spot to unwind and see Chennai illuminated at night.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient temple complex stands majestically by the sea. It's one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India.

• Visit early to avoid crowds and the midday sun.
• Admire the intricate carvings and the sea-facing architecture.

A group of monolithic rock-cut temples, each carved from a single piece of granite. They represent different styles of Dravidian temple architecture.

• Learn about the different rathas (chariots) and their significance.
• This site is part of the Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage group.

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal in Mahabalipuram. This mid-range restaurant offers local delicacies and fresh seafood.

A scenic beach known for its rock formations and the iconic Lighthouse. It's a relaxing place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

• Watch the sunset over the Bay of Bengal.
• Browse the numerous souvenir shops selling local crafts.

Explore the vibrant wholesale cotton market, a bustling hub for textiles. You can find a wide variety of fabrics, traditional clothing, and handicrafts.

• Be prepared for crowds and the lively atmosphere.
• Haggling is expected, so be polite but firm.
• Look for unique designs and high-quality cotton.

A popular ice cream parlor where you can customize your dessert with various toppings and flavors. A sweet treat to beat the Chennai heat.

A monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar. It features a large chariot-like structure and houses a temple hall.

• Climb to the top for a different perspective of the monument.
• The structure is an impressive feat of engineering and artistry.

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting. This restaurant is known for its pizzas, pastas, and European ambiance.

A local market for last-minute souvenir shopping. You can find handicrafts, clothing, and local snacks.

• Perfect for picking up gifts for friends and family.
• Bargain for the best prices.

A final taste of delicious and affordable South Indian vegetarian cuisine. This chain is known for its consistency and wide variety of dishes.

Your departure point. Allow ample time for check-in and security, especially during peak hours.