Chennai

Quick Overview

  • Best Time to Visit: November to February
  • Weather: Hot and humid year-round; cooler during winter
  • Budget: ₹2,000–₹8,000/day
  • Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA)

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

By Train: Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore are major railway stations with connections across India.

By Bus: CMBT Koyambedu and KCBT Kilambakkam are the major bus terminals. State-run and private buses operate from neighboring states and cities to Chennai.

By Flight: Chennai International Airport connects to major domestic and international destinations.

Where to Stay?

Chennai offers a range of accommodations:

  • Homestays: Experience local hospitality.
  • Luxury Hotels: For a lavish experience.
  • Budget Lodges: Affordable and comfortable.

Packing List

  • Light cotton clothing
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Umbrella or raincoat (especially during monsoon)

Top Places to Visit & Things to Do

You can visit these places on Day 1:

  • Marina Beach (Sunrise Walk)
    Feel the pulse of Chennai as the sun rises over one of the world’s longest urban beaches. Watch fishermen at work, sip fresh coconut water, and start your day with the city’s rhythm.
  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore
    Step into centuries of devotion. This iconic Dravidian temple is not just spiritual but also a cultural microcosm of Tamil Nadu’s traditions, with vibrant street markets surrounding it.
  • Mylapore Food Trail
    Enjoy filter coffee, snack on hot vadas, and wrap up with jangiris and rose milk.

You can visit these places on Day 2:

  • Fort St. George + St. Mary’s Church
    Visit the first British fort in India and walk through colonial corridors that tell tales of East India Company rule, including the oldest Anglican church in the country.
  • Santhome Basilica
    One of only three churches in the world built over an apostle’s tomb (St. Thomas). A peaceful and poignant space that reflects Chennai’s Christian heritage.
  • Theosophical Society, Adyar
    Enter a serene 260-acre space where banyan trees are centuries old, silence is sacred, and spirituality goes beyond religion. A hidden gem known only to locals.

You can visit these places on Day 3:

  • Kalakshetra Foundation (Cultural Campus Tour)
    Where Bharatanatyam lives and breathes. Visit this revered institution to witness live dance/music classes and walk through art-filled courtyards rooted in India’s classical tradition.
  • Royapuram Fishing Harbour
    One of Chennai’s oldest and liveliest fishing ports. Go early morning to witness the real hustle of seafood auctions, salty breeze, and Chennai’s raw, working-class spirit.
  • T. Nagar Saree Shopping at Ranganathan Street
    Only in Chennai will you find sarees stacked sky-high, bustling crowds, and vibrant colors at jaw-dropping prices.

Local Insights

  • Cuisine: Try local delicacies like dosa, idli, and filter coffee.
  • Transport: Use metro, buses, or auto-rickshaws for commuting.
  • Culture: Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Shopping: Bargain at local markets for the best deals.

Enjoy Your Yatra!

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