5 Sustainable Days in Chennai, India

Check into a sustainable hotel like ITC Grand Chola or The Park, Chennai.

Make your way to the Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world for a leisurely stroll and people watching. The best time for this would be after 4:30pm when the sea breeze has set in.

If you are feeling a bit adventurous, enjoy local street food like crispy sundal (chickpea snack) and murukku (savory snack) or fresh coconut water from the vendors along the beach.

Remember to carry bottled water with you and stay hydrated.

Begin the day with a visit to Cholamandalam Artists Village, known for its vibrant art community and galleries. You may be able to interact with some of the artists who live around the village.

Proceed to Mahabalipuram and check into a sustainable hotel like Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay. This beachfront resort is known for its luxurious amenities and sustainability initiatives. Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay focuses on responsible tourism, including water conservation, energy-efficient practices and eco-friendly landscaping. Enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurant on the beach or any of their other restaurants.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, including the impressive stone-cut temples and the Shore Temple with a local guide.

Experience a rejuvenating spa treatment at a local Ayurvedic wellness center in Mahabalipuram or at the resort. I personally love their Ayurvedic massages.

Travel from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, and check into a sustainable accommodation like Le Pondy or The Saravi Resort.

Explore the French Quarter of Pondicherry, known for its colonial architecture and charming cafes — reminds me a lot of New Orleans.

Visit Auroville, an experimental township focused on sustainable living, and experience the serene ambiance of the Matrimandir. I always feel calm and energized after sitting in silence here for 10-15 minutes.

TIP: Auroville shops are a great place to shop for leather goods, incense, perfumes and other sustainably-made handicrafts.

Enjoy a fusion of French and Tamil cuisine at popular restaurants like Le Dupleix or The Hidden Garden Cafe which is a short walk from the beach.

Return to Chennai and stay at a sustainable hotel like The Accord Metropolitan or Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai City Centre.

Attend a Bharatanatyam concert, a classical dance form native to Tamil Nadu, at a renowned venue like Narada Gana Sabha. Your hotel concierge can help you with the tickets.

Take a guided walking tour in either Mylapore or Parrys, two vibrant neighborhoods rich in history and culture. Mylapore is home to several temples and bustling shops for jewelry, silks and a lot more. Parrys is a hub of business activity as well as shops. Walking through Ritchie Street is very interesting - you can find any electronic item or part in the shops here!

Indulge in authentic South Indian cuisine at popular restaurants like Murugan Idli Shop or Saravana Bhavan. Treat yourself to soft idlis (steamed cakes made of rice and lentils) or crispy dosas. Don’t forget the filter coffee, that is tradition in Chennai.

Explore more of Chennai's attractions, such as visiting the Kapaleeshwarar Temple or the Government Museum.

Enjoy a final meal with a blend of local and international flavors at restaurants like Annalakshmi, The Flying Elephant or Paatti Veedu (translates to Grandma’s house).

Note: Annalakshmi and Paatti Veedu serve only vegetarian food.

Depart from Chennai with wonderful memories of your sustainable and culturally immersive trip.

Remember to check the availability of specific events, concerts and timings in advance to align with your travel dates.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the city, escape to Amethyst Cafe - in the heart of the city, but very serene. You can also get in some retail therapy here.