24-hours in Chennai: Best one-day itinerary you didn’t know you needed

If you are in Chennai and have only 24 hours to spend, don’t fret, because there’s so much that can be done in 24 hours. The city is one of the biggest in India and has everything that a traveller might need. From heritage sites for history lovers to stunning (and busy) beaches and shopping malls, there’s plenty in Chennai that will help you have a memorable holiday in the city. Here's a suggested itinerary:

Start your day early with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Enjoy a refreshing walk along the shore, watch the sunrise, and witness the local life buzzing around. You can also indulge in some beachside snacks like murukku and sundal from the vendors. There are several stalls that sell shells, they make for great souvenirs.

Head to a nearby local eatery or a popular South Indian restaurant to savour a traditional breakfast. Try dosa, idli, vada, or pongal along with some filter coffee to get a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine.

When in Chennai, one must visit the UNESCO heritage site of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram. It may sound hectic, but it is not. Mahabalipuram is just 1.5 hours away from the city (approximately 60 km), and since the roads are excellent in Chennai, getting there is quite easy. The app-based taxis will cost approximately INR 1200 one way. It’s easy to get a cab back from Mahabalipuram to Chennai. After exploring the monuments, you can easily be back in the city by 2pm.

Take this time to indulge in a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant, and sample some authentic Tamil cuisine. You can try a thali meal or opt for dishes like Chettinad chicken, fish curry, or biryani.

Next, head to the Government Museum Complex in Egmore. Explore the diverse exhibits showcasing artefacts, sculptures, and archaeological finds from various periods of Indian history. Don't miss the National Art Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of traditional and contemporary Indian art. The museum stays open till 5 PM.

Spend your evening indulging in some shopping at T. Nagar, one of Chennai's busiest shopping districts. Explore the numerous shops, boutiques, and street stalls offering a variety of clothing, jewellery, accessories, and handicrafts. Bargain for souvenirs or pick up some traditional silk sarees as gifts

End your day with a delicious dinner at a coastal restaurant, where you can feast on fresh seafood dishes like fish fry, prawn curry, or crab masala. Enjoy the flavours of Chennai's coastal cuisine before heading back to your accommodation.