5-Day Chennai and Mahabalipuram Adventure Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to San Thome Cathedral, an important pilgrimage site built over the tomb of Saint Thomas, one of Jesus' apostles. The cathedral's neo-gothic architecture is awe-inspiring. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at Amethyst Café, known for its tranquil garden setting and delicious fare.

In the afternoon, explore Government Museum, one of India's oldest museums housing an extensive collection of artifacts ranging from ancient sculptures to modern art. Following this, join Discovering Chennai's Vibrant Markets (2 Hour Guided Walk) to experience local markets bustling with activity and color. For lunch, head to Rayar’s Mess, famous for its authentic South Indian meals.

Spend your evening at Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach), another popular beach destination in Chennai known for its calm ambiance compared to Marina Beach. Participate in Beaches of Chennai Trail to explore various beach spots along with their unique stories and significance. End your day with dinner at The Flying Elephant, offering an eclectic mix of cuisines in a stylish setting.

Begin your day with a visit to the Ashtalakshmi Temple, a unique temple dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi. This temple is located by the sea, offering a serene and spiritual start to your day. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, known for its traditional South Indian breakfast options.

In the afternoon, explore Madras High Court, an architectural marvel and one of the largest judicial complexes in the world. Following this, take part in Chennai George Town Origins Guided Walking Tour to delve into the historical significance of George Town, one of Chennai's oldest neighborhoods. For lunch, head to Annalakshmi Restaurant, which offers a delightful vegetarian buffet.

Conclude your day with a visit to Little Mount & St Thomas Mount (Chinnamalai & Parangi Malai), two significant Christian pilgrimage sites offering panoramic views of Chennai. Participate in Spiritual Trails of Chennai (2 Hour Guided Walking Tour) to gain deeper insights into these sacred sites. For dinner, savor some delicious South Indian cuisine at Dakshin, located in ITC Grand Chola.

National Art Gallery is your first stop today, where you can admire an extensive collection of Indian art spanning several centuries. This gallery is housed in a beautiful Indo-Saracenic building that adds to its charm. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at The Brew Room, known for its artisanal coffee and cozy ambiance.

Valluvar Kottam awaits you in the afternoon—a monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar. Following this cultural immersion, join Chennai Food Tasting Trails (2 Hour Guided Tour Experience) for an unforgettable culinary journey through Chennai's diverse food scene. For lunch, dine at Mathura Restaurant, which offers delicious North Indian cuisine.

Armenian Church will be your final attraction—a historic church built in 1712 that stands as a testament to Chennai's multicultural heritage. Participate in Explore Chennai in Nightlights (2 Hour Guided Walking Tour) to see the city illuminated beautifully as night falls. End your trip with dinner at Peshawri, located in ITC Grand Chola, known for its authentic North-West Frontier cuisine.

Embark on an exciting day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram with Day Trip to Mahabalipuram (Guided Sightseeing Experience). Start early morning from Chennai after having breakfast at your hotel or nearby café like Café Coffee Day. The journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes by car.

Upon arrival in Mahabalipuram, visit its UNESCO World Heritage Sites including rock-cut temples and cave sanctuaries that date back to the Pallava dynasty period such as Arjuna’s Penance and Shore Temple within this guided tour experience which provides deep insights into their historical context while also allowing ample time for photography breaks before stopping by local eatery called Moonrakers Restaurant serving delectable seafood dishes prepared using traditional recipes making it perfect spot refuel during midday break before continuing exploration further around town.

As evening approaches wrap up sightseeing activities visiting last few remaining monuments if any left unexplored earlier partaking optional activities like shopping souvenirs handcrafted stone sculptures or simply relaxing beachfront enjoying cool sea breeze setting sun backdrop picturesque scenery creating unforgettable memories lasting lifetime finally returning back hotel chennai concluding eventful adventurous outing altogether dining exquisite meal upscale restaurant Dakshin Park Sheraton ensuring perfect end wonderful excursion filled rich cultural heritage natural beauty combined together seamlessly blending best both worlds single package deal.