Chennai - 33 Days Itinerary

Airport Check-in

Head to Belfast City Airport (BHD) for your flight to Chennai.

Allow ample time for check-in and security.

Flight to Chennai

Begin your journey to Chennai with an overnight flight, including layovers.

Your flight departs on July 16 and arrives in Chennai on July 17.

Arrive in Chennai

Land at Chennai International Airport (MAA).

Clear immigration, collect luggage, and transfer to your hotel.

The hotel can assist with airport transfers. Allow time to check in and freshen up after your journey.

Rest & Recharge

Settle into your hotel room and take some time to rest and adjust to the new time zone.

Authentic South Indian Lunch

Enjoy your first taste of Chennai with a traditional South Indian meal at a local restaurant near your hotel.

British Architecture Walk

Discover the architectural legacy of British colonial rule in Chennai on a guided walk.

Many landmarks still dominate the city's horizon.

This tour offers insights into Chennai's past as Madras, the capital of Southern British India.

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy dinner at one of the Hilton Chennai's restaurants, offering a comfortable and convenient dining experience after a day of travel and exploration.

Explore Chennai City Tour

Embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Chennai's highlights.

Visit Sri Ramakrishna Math, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, experiencing the city's spiritual and architectural wonders.

This tour includes lunch and covers major religious and historical sites.

Stroll at Marina Beach

Relax and enjoy a leisurely walk along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Witness local life and the vibrant atmosphere.

Best to visit in the late afternoon or early evening for cooler weather and lively crowds.

Dinner in Mylapore

Savor authentic South Indian cuisine in the historic Mylapore area, known for its traditional eateries.

Private Food Trail

Explore the vibrant streets of Sowcarpet Market, one of Chennai's oldest, and sample the best local street food.

Learn about local life and customs.

A fantastic way to immerse yourself in Chennai's culinary scene and local culture.

Vadapazhani Murugan Temple

Visit the Vadapazhani Murugan Temple, a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its colorful gopuram and spiritual atmosphere.

Dress modestly when visiting temples.

Shopping at VR Chennai

Indulge in some modern shopping and browse a variety of local and international brands at VR Chennai mall.

A good option for air-conditioned comfort and a break from the heat.

Dinner in Anna Nagar

Enjoy dinner at one of the diverse restaurants in Anna Nagar, offering various cuisines.

Traditional Vegetarian Cooking Class

Participate in a hands-on cooking class with Gayathri, learning the secrets of South Indian vegetarian cuisine rooted in Thanjavur's rich food culture.

A unique opportunity to delve into local culinary traditions and learn to prepare delicious dishes.

Enjoy Cooked Meal

Savor the delicious vegetarian dishes you prepared during the cooking class for lunch.

Kandhakottam Temple Visit

Explore the historic Kandhakottam Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan in Park Town.

Admire its intricate architecture.

Evening Leisure

Enjoy some free time, perhaps relax at the hotel or explore a nearby area on your own.

Dinner in Chintadripet

Have dinner in the Chintadripet area, known for its local eateries and temples.

British Architecture Walk

Explore the colonial heritage of Chennai, formerly Madras, with a guided walk showcasing impressive landmarks built during the British rule.

Discover the rich history and architectural marvels. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Authentic South Indian Lunch

Savor a traditional South Indian Thali or crispy dosas at a local restaurant.

Ask your guide for recommendations for a truly authentic experience.

Shopping & Bazaar Trail

Immerse yourself in Chennai's vibrant shopping culture, visiting wholesale markets for fruits, flowers, vegetables, and other local goods.

Experience the bustling local life and find unique souvenirs. This tour offers a deep dive into local commerce.

Morning at Sowcarpet Market

Wander through Sowcarpet, one of Chennai's oldest and most bustling markets, known for its wholesale goods, textiles, and street food. A perfect precursor to the food trail.

This market is a sensory overload! Be prepared for crowds and vibrant energy. Great for photography.

Private Food Trail in Sowcarpet

Explore the culinary gems of Sowcarpet, sampling the best local street food from some of the oldest vendors in the area and hearing stories of local life.

Come hungry! This tour is a fantastic way to taste authentic local flavors.

Traditional Vegetarian Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes with local host Gayathri, who shares recipes passed down from her Thanjavur-native grandmother.

A hands-on experience to delve deeper into Indian cuisine. Enjoy the meal you prepare!

French Toast Moto Tour to Pondicherry

Embark on a classic moto tour to Pondicherry, discovering the East Coast with a blend of freedom and expert guidance.

Explore the charming French colonial architecture and serene beaches at your own pace.

This is a full-day excursion. Prepare for a long but rewarding day trip. Includes self-guided city sightseeing.

Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram Day Trip

Embark on a full-day private car tour with a guide to explore the marvelous temples, caves, and rock carvings of Kanchipuram and Mamallapuram, mostly carved during the 7th-century Pallava reign.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Comfortable attire and good walking shoes are recommended.

Explore Chennai City Tour

Discover Chennai's highlights with a guided city tour, including Sri Ramakrishna Math, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and San Thome Basilica.

Enjoy lunch as part of the tour.

A comprehensive tour to cover major city attractions. Lunch is included.

Chennai Rail Museum Visit

Explore the Chennai Rail Museum, featuring indoor galleries, miniature train models, an art gallery, and a toy train ride.

Learn about the history of Indian railways.

A great family-friendly attraction. Don't miss the toy train ride!

Mystery Rooms Chennai

Engage in a challenging race against the clock to solve puzzles and escape a themed room.

A fun and immersive entertainment experience.

Perfect for an evening of brain-teasing fun. It's recommended to book your slot in advance, especially on a Saturday.

Chola Trail Day 1

Embark on the first day of a private 2-day tour exploring the Golden Triangle of South India, discovering 3 World Heritage Sites and capitals of the mighty Chola Empire. This journey of rediscovery takes you 1000 years back in time to marvel at the grandeur of ancient Chola architecture and history.

This tour focuses on the historical and architectural sites of the Chola Dynasty. Be prepared for a full day of exploration and travel. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing.

Dinner & Relaxation

Enjoy dinner and relax after a day of historical exploration.

The tour guide will recommend local dining options.

Chola Trail Day 2

Continue the second day of the Chola trail, visiting more magnificent temples and historical sites that showcase the architectural prowess of the Chola Empire.

The tour returns to Chennai in the evening.

Be prepared for another full day of travel and sightseeing. Your guide will provide insights into the history and significance of each site. Lunch will be arranged by the tour.

Return to Chennai & Dinner

Arrive back in Chennai after your enriching 2-day Chola trail.

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant near your hotel.

British Architecture Walk

Explore Chennai's colonial past on a guided walk focusing on British architecture.

Discover landmarks built during British rule that still dominate the city's horizon.

Learn about Chennai's transformation from Madras and the architectural legacy left behind by the British. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Kandhakottam Temple Visit

Visit the Kandhakottam Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan.

Experience the spiritual ambiance and admire the temple's intricate architecture.

Modest dress is recommended (shoulders and knees covered). Be respectful of religious practices.

Dinner in Nungambakkam

Enjoy dinner in the Nungambakkam area, known for its diverse culinary scene.

Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram Day Trip

Embark on a full-day private car trip with a guide to explore the magnificent temples, caves, and rock carvings of Kanchipuram and Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram).

Most were carved from rock during the 7th-century reign of Pallava king Narasimhavarman I.

This is a long but rewarding day trip. You'll witness UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Lunch is typically included or arranged by the guide. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Late Dinner in Chennai

Enjoy a relaxing dinner after your day trip, perhaps trying a traditional South Indian Thali.

Chennai City Highlights Tour

Discover Chennai's cultural and spiritual side with a guided city tour.

Visit Sri Ramakrishna Math for a peaceful atmosphere, admire the stunning Dravidian architecture of Kapaleeshwarar Temple, explore San Thome Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets.

This tour offers a comprehensive overview of Chennai's key attractions, including lunch. Modest dressing is recommended for temple visits.

AdhiKesava Perumal Temple

Visit the ancient AdhiKesava Perumal Temple in Chintadripet.

This beautiful Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection.

A significant local temple, known for its spiritual importance and traditional architecture. Remember to remove footwear before entering the temple premises.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner, reflecting on the historical and cultural discoveries of the past five days.

Chennai Rail Museum Visit

Explore the Chennai Rail Museum, featuring historical locomotives, miniature models, and an art gallery.

It's a fascinating look at India's railway heritage.

Enjoy a toy train ride within the museum complex.

Lunch in Anna Nagar

Savor a delicious meal at a local restaurant in Anna Nagar, a vibrant part of Chennai known for its eateries.

Try authentic South Indian thali or local specialties.

Shopping at VR Chennai

Spend your afternoon exploring VR Chennai, a popular mall offering a wide range of international and Indian brands, entertainment options, and eateries.

Catch a movie or grab a coffee at one of the many cafes.

Relaxation at Hotel

Enjoy some leisure time at your hotel, perhaps by the pool or with a refreshing drink.

Take advantage of the hotel's amenities for relaxation.

Dinner in Velachery

Dine at one of the upscale restaurants in the Velachery area, near your hotel, offering diverse culinary experiences.

Guided Birding Trip

Embark on a guided birdwatching trip with an expert to the best locations around Chennai, spotting maximum or rare species.

Bring binoculars and a camera. Tour includes a spot scope for better viewing. Product Code: 196796P9

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a cozy cafe after your early morning birding adventure.

Visit Parrot House / Birdman of Chennai

Visit the unique 'Parrot House' or 'Birdman of Chennai' area, where hundreds of parrots gather daily for feeding, a truly remarkable natural spectacle.

Witness the spectacle of mass parrot feeding. Best to check feeding times.

Lunch in Chintadripet

Grab a quick and delicious lunch in the Chintadripet area, known for its local eateries.

Leisurely Adyar River Walk

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Adyar River, observing the local flora and fauna.

A great way to unwind and connect with nature within the city.

Look out for various bird species that frequent the estuary.

Relaxed Dinner

Indulge in a relaxed dinner at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps exploring a cuisine you haven't tried yet.

VGP Wonder World Fun

Spend your morning at VGP Wonder World, an amusement park offering various rides and attractions for a fun and lighthearted experience.

Check for show timings and special events.

Lunch at VGP or Nearby

Have lunch at one of the eateries within VGP Wonder World or a nearby restaurant.

Visit AdhiKesava Perumal Temple

Find spiritual calm and admire the architecture at the AdhiKesava Perumal Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple in Chintadripet.

Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting temples.

Coffee Break

Enjoy a relaxing coffee or tea break at a local cafe.

Traditional Vegetarian Dinner

Savor a traditional South Indian vegetarian dinner, a true taste of local cuisine.

Mystery Rooms Challenge

Engage in a challenging and fun experience at Mystery Rooms Chennai, where you solve puzzles to escape a themed room.

Ideal for testing your wits and teamwork. Booking in advance is recommended.

Lunch in Nungambakkam

Enjoy lunch in the Nungambakkam area, known for its diverse culinary scene.

Chennai Metro Rail Experience

Take a ride on the modern Chennai Metro Rail.

It's an efficient way to travel and see different parts of the city, offering insights into urban life.

Experience Chennai's modern infrastructure. Pick a route that takes you through interesting areas.

Evening Park Visit

Visit a local park for a refreshing walk and some quiet time amidst greenery.

Popular parks include Semmozhi Poonga or Anna Zoological Park (though the latter might be a longer visit).

Casual Dinner

Enjoy a casual dinner at a comfortable restaurant near your hotel.

British Architecture Walk

Take a guided walk to explore Chennai's stunning British colonial architecture, witnessing landmarks built during the British rule.

Learn about Chennai's rich history as the capital of Southern British India. Product Code: 107256P18

Lunch in George Town

Enjoy a meal in the historic George Town area, perhaps trying some regional specialties.

Hotel Wellness & Relaxation

Dedicate your afternoon to personal wellness at the hotel.

This could include using the gym, enjoying a spa treatment (at extra cost), or simply relaxing by the pool.

Recharge for the next leg of your journey. Consider booking a spa appointment in advance.

Leisure Time

Free time to relax, catch up on reading, or prepare for the upcoming segment of your trip.

Segment Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special dinner to conclude this segment of your trip, perhaps at one of the hotel's restaurants or a highly-rated restaurant nearby.

British Architecture Walk

Explore Chennai's colonial past with a guided walk through buildings from the British Raj era, learning about their history and architectural significance.

Wear comfortable shoes and carry water. This tour offers a unique perspective on Chennai's history.

Traditional South Indian Lunch

Savor authentic South Indian cuisine at a local restaurant, experiencing classic flavors and dishes.

Try a thali for a variety of dishes.

Private Food Trail Sowcarpet

Embark on a culinary journey through Sowcarpet Market, one of Chennai's oldest markets, sampling local street food and learning about daily life.

Come hungry! Be prepared for bustling streets and a vibrant atmosphere.

Evening Relaxation & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel or explore nearby dining options.

Guided Birding Trip

Join a birding expert on a trip to prime locations around Chennai to spot various bird species, perfect for enthusiasts and photographers.

Bring binoculars and a camera. The tour includes a spot scope for better viewing.

Visit Parrot Sudarson

Experience the unique attraction of Parrot Sudarson, known for attracting and feeding a large number of wild parrots.

A fascinating local experience for bird lovers.

Leisurely Lunch

Enjoy a relaxed lunch after your morning birdwatching.

Traditional Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic vegetarian South Indian dishes from a local expert, delving into the region's rich culinary traditions.

This hands-on experience offers insight into local ingredients and cooking techniques.

Dinner & Free Evening

Dine at a restaurant recommended by your cooking instructor or explore on your own.

Explore Chennai City Tour

A comprehensive tour including a visit to Sri Ramakrishna Math, the stunning Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and other local highlights, with a guided lunch.

This tour provides a great overview of Chennai's spiritual and cultural side. Lunch is included.

Shopping and Bazaar Trail

Immerse yourself in Chennai's vibrant shopping scene, visiting wholesale markets for fruits, flowers, vegetables, and other local goods.

A perfect opportunity to find unique souvenirs and experience the local hustle and bustle. Be prepared to haggle!

Late Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice after a full day of exploration and shopping.

Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram Day Trip

Embark on a full-day private tour to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Mahabalipuram with its ancient rock-cut temples and caves, and Kanchipuram, the 'City of a Thousand Temples,' known for its silk sarees.

A driver and guide are included. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. The journey offers insights into ancient Pallava architecture and traditional silk weaving.

Late Dinner after Excursion

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner after your extensive day trip.

VGP Wonder World

Spend the morning at VGP Wonder World, an amusement park offering a variety of rides and entertainment options for a fun-filled experience.

Check their official website for operating hours and ticket prices. A great way to unwind.

Lunch at Wonder World

Have lunch at one of the eateries within VGP Wonder World.

Shopping at VR Chennai

Explore VR Chennai, a contemporary shopping mall offering a wide range of international and local brands, dining, and entertainment options.

A perfect spot for some retail therapy or to catch a movie.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner, reflecting on your adventures in Chennai and preparing for the next leg of your journey.

Travel to Thanjavur

Embark on a journey from Chennai to Thanjavur, the heart of the Chola empire.

The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours by train or car.

Chola Trail: Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your 2-day 'Chola trail to the Golden Triangle of South India' tour.

Your first stop is the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture. This temple is dedicated to Shiva.

Thanjavur Royal Palace & Art Gallery

Explore the historic Thanjavur Maratha Palace complex, including the Royal Palace Museum and the Art Gallery, which houses a superb collection of Chola bronze sculptures.

Chola Trail: Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Continue your Chola trail with a visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the capital of the Chola dynasty for a brief period.

Marvel at the Gangaikondacholisvarar Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its intricate sculptures and impressive vimana.

Chola Trail: Airavatesvara Temple

Visit the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, the third of the Great Living Chola Temples designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This temple is known for its exquisite carvings and unique chariot-shaped mandapam.

Evening Stroll & Local Dining

Return to Thanjavur.

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll and savor traditional South Indian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Travel to Tiruchirappalli

Take a short journey from Thanjavur to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), another historically significant city in Tamil Nadu.

Rockfort Ucchi Pillayar Temple

Visit the iconic Rockfort Temple complex, a historic fort and temple built on an ancient rock.

Climb to the top for panoramic views of Trichy and the surrounding area, and visit the Ucchi Pillayar Temple (Ganesha temple) at the summit.

Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple

Explore the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a reclining form of Vishnu).

Admire its impressive gopurams (gateway towers) and vast courtyards.

Trichy Local Market Experience

Wander through a local market in Trichy, observing daily life and perhaps picking up some local snacks or small souvenirs.

Tamil Nadu Rural Village Visit

Embark on a guided visit to a local village near Thanjavur to experience the rural lifestyle, agricultural practices, and traditional village crafts unique to Tamil Nadu.

This offers a glimpse into authentic regional life.

Traditional Craft Workshop

Visit a local workshop to observe artisans at work, perhaps specializing in Thanjavur paintings, brass items, or traditional pottery.

You might even get a chance to try your hand at a craft.

Leisure and Personal Time

Enjoy some personal time to relax at your hotel, perhaps by the pool, or revisit a favorite spot in Thanjavur.

Schwartz Church Visit

Visit the historic Schwartz Church, a Protestant church located within the Thanjavur Palace complex, built in 1779 by Raja Serfoji II to show his gratitude to the Danish missionary C.

V. Schwartz.

Check opening hours as they can be limited.

Local Souvenir Shopping

Spend some time shopping for souvenirs to remember your trip.

Look for traditional Thanjavur paintings, silk sarees, or local handicrafts.

Return Travel to Chennai

After a memorable exploration of Southern Tamil Nadu, begin your journey back to Chennai to prepare for the final segment of your trip.

Shopping and Bazaar Trail

Immerse yourself in Chennai's vibrant culture with a guided shopping tour.

Visit a wholesale market for fruits, flowers, and vegetables, and explore other traditional bazaars.

Experience the bustling local life and find unique souvenirs. Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking.

Private Food Trail in Sowcarpet Market

Explore the historic streets of Sowcarpet, one of Chennai's oldest markets, and sample the best local street food from renowned vendors.

Learn about local life and customs from your guide.

Come with an empty stomach! This is a great way to experience authentic Chennai flavors.

Explore Chennai City Tour

Discover Chennai's key landmarks with a guided tour, including a visit to Sri Ramakrishna Math for a peaceful atmosphere and the stunning Dravidian architecture of Kapaleeshwarar Temple.

Lunch is included.

A perfect way to see the city's important cultural and spiritual sites on your last full day.

Mystery Rooms Chennai

Engage in a thrilling and challenging escape room experience.

Work against the clock to solve puzzles and escape a themed room with your wits.

A fun and engaging activity, perfect for a bit of excitement. Book your slot in advance, especially for a Sunday.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of South Indian cuisine one last time.

Consider trying a traditional Thali meal or a specialty seafood dish.

Early Wake-Up

Wake up early for your morning flight.

Hotel Check-out

Complete your check-out procedures from The Leela Palace Chennai.

Transfer to MAA Airport

Travel from your hotel to Chennai International Airport (MAA) for your departure.

Airport Check-in and Security

Proceed with check-in and security procedures for your international flight.

Allow ample time for international travel formalities.

Depart from Chennai

Board your flight from Chennai International Airport (MAA) back to Belfast.