
Organised by BackToTrip
3-Day Chennai Cultural and Coastal Journey
A comprehensive 3-day exploration of Chennai's coastal temples, urban heritage, and Mahabalipuram's ancient wonders.
- 3 nights / 3 days
- 1–6 travellers
- 9 places
About this trip
Experience the vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and stunning coastline of Chennai and its surroundings over three immersive days.





Highlights
- Visit the seaside Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple and historic San Thome Basilica
- Stroll along the legendary Marina Beach and serene ECR Beach
- Explore the ancient rock-cut architecture of the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram
Trip map
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Temples and Botanical Gardens
Begin your journey along the Coromandel Coast with a visit to the architecturally striking Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple. Continue to the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, showcasing classic Dravidian architecture, before exploring the peaceful grounds of the Semmozhi Poonga botanical garden. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the scenic coastline.

Marundeeswarar Temple
09:001 h 30 min8, W Tank St, Ambedkar Nagar, Lalitha Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600041, India
See photo of Marundeeswarar Temple · Photo: Mohan Krishnan (talk), CC BY-SA 3.0
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
11:001 h 30 min234, Ramakrishna Mutt Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004, India
See photo of Kapaleeshwarar Temple · Photo: Mohan Krishnan (en:User talk:Nsmohan, CC BY-SA 3.0
Semmozhi Poonga
14:301 h 30 minCathedral Rd, opposite American Consulate, Ellaiamman Colony, Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600086, India
See photo of Semmozhi Poonga · Photo: Arian Zwegers derivative work: MrPanyGoff, CC BY 2.0
Day 2: Colonial Heritage and Beaches
Immerse yourself in Chennai's vibrant seaside culture starting with the legendary expanse of Edward Elliot's Beach. Explore the rich heritage and vast collections at the Government Museum in Egmore. Afterward, wander through the historic exhibits at Fort St. George to experience the colonial history of the city.

Edward Elliot's Beach
09:001 h 30 minEdward Elliot's Beach, Tamil Nadu, India
See photo of Edward Elliot's Beach · Photo: KARTY JazZ, CC BY-SA 4.0
Government Museum
11:002 hPantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008, India
See photo of Government Museum · Photo: L.vivian.richard at English Wikipedia, Public domain
Fort St George
14:301 h 30 minFort St George, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
See photo of Fort St George · Photo: L.vivian.richard at English Wikipedia, Public domain
Day 3: Mahabalipuram Temples and Culture
Step back in time at the ancient Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, marvel at the intricate monolithic rock-cut rathas, and admire the detailed bas-reliefs carved into stone cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch overlooking the Bay of Bengal before returning to Chennai. Spend your final evening shopping for traditional silk sarees and handicrafts in T. Nagar.

Shore Temple
09:002 hBeach Rd, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104, India
Explore the ancient structural Hindu temple complex overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
See photo of Shore Temple · Photo: Swarna1311, CC BY-SA 4.0
Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas)
11:301 h 30 min58, W Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104, India
View the magnificent rock-cut monoliths showcasing ancient Pallava architecture.
See photo of Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas) · Photo: Arupparia, CC BY-SA 4.0
T. Nagar
16:002 hT. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Browse vibrant local markets and pick up authentic souvenirs and textiles.
See photo of T. Nagar · Photo: Remi Boissonnas, CC BY-SA 2.0
What's included
- Guided temple and heritage tours
- Beachside walks and coastal visits