12 days in Chennai & Coimbatore Itinerary

Chennai, a city hailed for its vibrant atmosphere and historic attractions, remains one of the most visited places in India.

You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Covelong Beach and Elliot's Beach. Visiting Trimurti Cave and Anna Nagar Tower Park will get you outdoors. Explore Chennai's surroundings by going to Kanchipuram (Sri Vaikuntha Perumal Temple (Parameshwara Vinnagaram), Ekambareswarar Temple, &more) and Mahabalipuram (Tiger Cave & Shore Temple). Next up on the itinerary: kick back and relax at Marina Beach, take a stroll through Mylapore, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Vadapalani Murugan Temple, and walk around Chetpet EcoPark.

To see photos, ratings, other places to visit, and tourist information, read Chennai online trip maker.

Washington DC, USA to Chennai is an approximately 22.5-hour flight. The time zone changes from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to India Standard Time (IST), which is usually a 10.5 hour difference. Plan for much hotter temperatures traveling from Washington DC in March, with highs in Chennai at 93°F and lows at 74°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Mon) to allow time to fly to Coimbatore.

Known throughout the country as a major industrial city, Coimbatore possesses a welcoming atmosphere and a growing cosmopolitanism.

Escape the urban bustle at Velliangiri Mountains and Ooty Lake. Explore hidden gems such as Cairn Hill and Malampuzha Dam. Get out of town with these interesting Coimbatore side-trips: Palakkad (Kalpathy Temple & Dhoni Waterfalls) and Ooty (Udhagamandalam) (Elk Hill Murugan Temple, Mukurti Peak, &more). The adventure continues: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Velliangiri Andavar Temple, admire the sheer force of Siruvani Falls and Dam, and see the interesting displays at Gedee Car Museum.

For other places to visit, ratings, maps, and other tourist information, refer to the Coimbatore day trip site.

Getting from Chennai to Coimbatore by flight takes about 3 hours. Other options: fly; or take a train; or drive. In March, daily temperatures in Coimbatore can reach 95°F, while at night they dip to 73°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 15th (Sun) so you can catch the flight back home.