Chennai 5 days

The first English fortress in India, established in 1644. Explore its museum, which houses artifacts from the colonial era, and admire the St. Mary's Church, one of the oldest Anglican churches in India.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort grounds.
• Check museum timings in advance as they can vary.

The second-longest urban beach in the world, offering a refreshing breeze and a lively atmosphere. It's a popular spot for evening strolls and enjoying local street food.

• Be mindful of your belongings.
• Try some local snacks like sundal (chickpea salad).

One of India's oldest museums, featuring a rich collection of South Indian art, archaeology, and numismatics. Don't miss the stunning Chola bronze sculptures and the fascinating Indus Valley Civilization artifacts.

• Allocate ample time to explore the various sections.
• Photography might incur an additional fee.

A living history museum showcasing the art, architecture, lifestyle, and crafts of South Indian states. It features traditional houses, craft demonstrations, and cultural performances.

• Look out for scheduled craft demonstrations.
• It's located a bit outside the city center, plan your transport.

A magnificent Shiva temple in Mylapore, renowned for its Dravidian architecture and vibrant gopuram (tower). Observe the intricate carvings and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
• Remove footwear before entering the main complex.

Experience the bustling local life at this vibrant market, known for its fresh produce, flowers, spices, and traditional crafts. It's a great place to sample local snacks and observe daily Chennai life.

• Bargaining is expected for non-fixed price items.
• Try some local sweets or savories from street vendors.

A renowned center for the preservation of Indian art and culture, especially Bharatanatyam dance and traditional music. You can visit their campus, see students practice, and sometimes attend performances.

• Check their schedule for any available performances or workshops.
• Photography may be restricted during performances.

A popular vegetarian restaurant chain offering authentic South Indian cuisine. Enjoy a delicious and affordable meal of dosas, idlis, vadas, and thalis in a clean and pleasant environment.

• The thali (platter) is a great way to sample a variety of dishes.
• Expect a crowd during peak meal times.

One of the four High Courts in India, this is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Admire its imposing structure, red sandstone facade, and intricate details.

• You can often walk around the exterior for great photos.
• Access inside might be restricted; check local regulations.

A unique architectural monument dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. The central structure is a replica of the Chariot of the temple of Thanjavur, housing a statue of the poet.

• Climb the steps for a closer look at the statue and the structure.
• Visit during daylight for the best views and photos.

One of Chennai's oldest and most iconic shopping malls. It offers a mix of local and international brands, a food court, and entertainment options.

• Good place to find souvenirs and local handicrafts.
• The food court offers diverse options.

A bustling market specializing in leather goods, from bags and shoes to jackets. It's a great place to find quality leather products at competitive prices.

• Be prepared to bargain hard.
• Inspect the quality of the leather carefully before purchasing.

A Roman Catholic minor basilica built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle. It's a significant pilgrimage site and a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture.

• Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
• Visit the museum inside for more historical context.

A modern planetarium offering engaging shows about astronomy and space science. It's a great educational and entertaining experience for all ages.

• Check the show timings in advance and book tickets.
• Shows are usually in English and Tamil.

The first artists' village in India, established by artists of the Madras Art Movement. It features a gallery showcasing contemporary Indian art and a sculpture garden.

• It's located on the East Coast Road, so plan transport.
• You might be able to interact with some resident artists.

A significant religious site associated with Saint Thomas, featuring a church and a cave. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its elevated position.

• The climb to the top is manageable.
• Good spot for sunset views if timed correctly.

A cleaner and more serene beach compared to Marina, popular with locals for morning walks and evening relaxation. It's lined with cafes and eateries.

• Enjoy a coffee at one of the beachfront cafes.
• The Schmidt Memorial is a notable landmark here.

A very popular eatery famous for its delicious and diverse range of idlis, dosas, and other South Indian snacks. It's a budget-friendly spot for an authentic taste.

• Expect queues, especially during peak hours.
• Their variety of chutneys and sambar are excellent.

A bustling street market offering a wide array of clothing, accessories, handicrafts, and household items. It's a quintessential Chennai shopping experience.

• Great for last-minute souvenir shopping.
• Bargaining is essential here.

While primarily an educational institution, its historical significance and architectural style are noteworthy. It's a brief stop to appreciate the blend of colonial and Indian architectural influences.

• This is a quick photo opportunity.
• Ensure you are not disrupting any academic activities.