Chennai 2 weeks

The first English fortress in India, established in 1644. It now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and Secretariat and a museum showcasing colonial artifacts.

• Visit the St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church east of Suez.
• Allow ample time for security checks.

Enjoy a mid-range South Indian meal with views of the Marina Beach. Known for its authentic thalis and seafood.

One of the longest urban beaches in the world, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Experience local life and enjoy street food vendors.

• Be cautious of strong currents if you plan to enter the water.
• Try some local snacks like sundal from the vendors.

A historic Catholic basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Its neo-Gothic architecture is a significant landmark.

• Dress modestly when visiting.
• The adjacent museum has interesting relics.

One of the oldest museums in India, featuring a rich collection of South Indian art, sculpture, bronzes, and numismatics.

• Don't miss the Amaravati sculpture gallery.
• Photography may incur a small additional fee.

Experience authentic Chettinad cuisine, known for its spicy and aromatic dishes. A popular mid-range option.

A magnificent example of Dravidian architecture, this ancient Shiva temple is dedicated to Lord Kapaleeshwarar. Its towering gopuram is a visual spectacle.

• Wear footwear that is easy to remove as you'll need to leave shoes outside.
• Visit during the evening aarti for a more vibrant experience.

A cleaner and more relaxed beach compared to Marina, popular with locals for evening walks and dining at nearby cafes.

• The Karl Schmidt Memorial is a notable landmark here.
• Plenty of good cafes and restaurants line the promenade.

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

• Check their schedule for live craft demonstrations.
• It's located a bit outside the city center, so factor in travel time.

A legendary, no-frills eatery famous for its traditional Tamil Brahmin cuisine. Expect simple, delicious food served on banana leaves.

• It's a very popular spot, so be prepared for a crowd.
• Their filter coffee is a must-try.

A renowned center for the preservation of Indian art and culture, especially classical dance and music. You can often witness rehearsals or performances.

• Check their website for performance schedules in advance.
• The campus itself is beautifully designed with traditional architecture.

A farm-to-table restaurant offering fresh, organic meals in a rustic setting. Known for its healthy options and pleasant ambiance.

A historic building on the Marina Beach that served as the South Indian headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. It now serves as a cultural center.

• Learn about Swami Vivekananda's life and teachings.
• Offers a quiet respite from the beach crowds.

A highly popular and affordable spot for authentic South Indian breakfast and tiffin items, especially idlis and dosas. Expect a queue.

• Try their variety of chutneys and sambar.
• It's a very casual dining experience.

One of the oldest temples in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It's known for its intricate carvings and historical significance.

• Located in the historic Mylapore area.
• Admire the various shrines within the temple complex.

An upscale restaurant offering a culinary journey through the spice routes of Asia, with a focus on Indian and Southeast Asian flavors. Elegant ambiance.

India's first artists' village, showcasing contemporary Indian art. Features a sculpture garden and art gallery with works by prominent artists.

• Purchase artwork directly from the artists or their studios.
• It's a peaceful place to appreciate modern Indian art.

A famous restaurant chain known for its delicious Tamil Nadu-style biryanis and non-vegetarian curries. A popular mid-range choice.

Part of the Madras Museum complex, this gallery houses a significant collection of Indian paintings, including the famous Tanjore paintings.

• Focus on the Raja Ravi Varma collection.
• Combine with a visit to the adjacent Government Museum.

A popular buffet restaurant offering a live grill experience with a wide variety of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Lively atmosphere.

Located inside Fort St. George, this museum displays artifacts from the British East India Company era, including portraits, uniforms, and weaponry.

• See the statue of Lord Cornwallis.
• Don't miss the collection of rare coins.

A well-known vegetarian restaurant chain serving a wide range of South Indian delicacies. Reliable and affordable.

A government-run emporium selling a wide variety of authentic South Indian handicrafts, including wood carvings, metal crafts, and textiles.

• Look for Tanjore paintings and bronze statues.
• Fixed prices, but quality is generally good.

Famous for its authentic Dindigul-style biryani, known for its unique flavor and preparation. A popular choice for meat lovers.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic temple is one of the oldest stone temples in South India, situated on the Bay of Bengal.

• Visit early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
• Admire the intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities and myths.

A group of monolithic rock-cut structures, each resembling a chariot, representing different architectural styles of the Pallava period. Another UNESCO site.

• Each 'ratha' is dedicated to a Pandava brother and Draupadi.
• Look for the elephant and lion motifs.

Enjoy the scenic beach and climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the ancient monuments.

• The lighthouse offers a great vantage point for photos.
• Be mindful of the tide when walking on the beach.

A massive open-air rock relief depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, known for its detailed carvings and sheer scale.

• The central carving of Arjuna doing penance is the highlight.
• Observe the various animals and figures carved into the rock.

Explore this bustling North Indian market, famous for its street food, textiles, and wholesale markets. A sensory overload of sights and smells.

• Try local street food like kachoris and chaat.
• Best visited in the morning for a less crowded experience.

A highly recommended spot for delicious and flavorful biryani, a local favorite. Offers both dine-in and takeaway.

A prominent monument dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. It features a large chariot-like structure and an auditorium.

• The structure is designed to resemble the temple chariot of Thiruvarur.
• Offers a quiet space for reflection.

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a pleasant setting. Known for its pizzas, pastas, and continental dishes.

One of the largest judicial complexes in the world, this impressive Indo-Saracenic building is a significant architectural landmark.

• Admire the distinctive red sandstone architecture.
• Access to interiors might be restricted; exterior views are stunning.

Experience a traditional Rajasthani thali with a wide array of vegetarian dishes served in a thali style. Known for its hospitality.

A majestic colonial-era building housing the Chennai Corporation. Its neo-classical architecture is a prominent city landmark.

• Best viewed from the outside.
• Located near the Chennai Central Railway Station.

A multi-level upscale lounge and bar offering a chic ambiance and creative cocktails. Great for a night out.

A beautiful fishing village and beach known for its surfing opportunities and laid-back atmosphere. Ideal for water sports.

• Consider taking a surfing lesson here.
• Enjoy the scenic drive along the East Coast Road to get here.

A highly-rated restaurant in the Kovalam area offering a mix of continental and Asian cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.

A small but curated gallery showcasing contemporary Indian art, often featuring local artists and emerging talent.

• Check for current exhibitions.
• A great place to discover new artists.

Enjoy dinner with a sea view at this popular beachside restaurant known for its seafood and relaxed ambiance.

A less crowded and more serene beach compared to Marina and Elliot's. Ideal for a quiet morning walk or relaxation.

• Pack some snacks and water as amenities are limited.
• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

A hidden gem offering authentic, home-style Tamil vegetarian meals at very affordable prices. A true local experience.

• It operates during specific hours, usually lunch.
• Cash only.

Explore one of Chennai's busiest commercial hubs, famous for its silk sarees, jewelry, and a vast array of shops.

• Visit Nalli Silks or Pothys for a wide selection of silk sarees.
• Bargaining is expected in smaller shops.

Another branch of the popular chain, offering their signature Dindigul-style biryani and other Tamil specialties.

A modern architectural marvel and one of the largest libraries in Asia. It offers a serene environment for reading and exploration.

• Features a Tamil-literary history museum.
• Great architectural design.

A popular vegetarian restaurant chain known for its extensive menu of South Indian tiffin items and meals. Consistently good quality.

A film studio complex dedicated to the history of Tamil cinema, named after the legendary actor M.G. Ramachandran. Includes sets, studios, and exhibitions.

• Check for guided tours.
• See replicas of famous film sets.

An all-day dining restaurant offering a diverse buffet and à la carte menu with international and local cuisines. Elegant dining experience.

One of the few national parks located within a city, home to diverse flora and fauna, including spotted deer and blackbucks. Includes the Children's Park and Snake Park.

• The park has specific visiting hours, check in advance.
• The Snake Park is a popular attraction within the grounds.

Experience affordable, authentic South Indian meals at these government-run canteens, known for their clean and hygienic food.

• A great option for a budget-friendly and local meal.
• Menu varies daily.

A renowned institution dedicated to conserving reptiles and amphibians, housing a vast collection of crocodiles, turtles, and snakes.

• See various species of crocodiles and alligators.
• Educational and engaging for all ages.

An upscale international buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of cuisines in a luxurious setting. Perfect for a special dinner.

A tranquil and sprawling campus with lush gardens, ancient banyan trees, and a library. A peaceful place for a morning stroll.

• Respect the quiet atmosphere.
• Home to a famous ancient banyan tree.

Enjoy a final taste of authentic South Indian tiffin at this popular, casual eatery before your departure.

Departure from Chennai.