3. Walk down the Mada Streets of Mylapore

To soak in the flavours of traditional side of this city, head to Mylapore. To the streets that set off the famed Sri Kapaleeswarar Temple. The three Mada Streets ( north, east and south). Shops that sell  jewellery, artefacts, Hindu religious goods and classical music albums, traditional snacks and coffee powder are set between surviving roofed houses of the previous century. Often, a procession in which Hindu deities are carried out vends its way here; it may be led by traditional musicians who negotiate for space with roadside hawkers selling fresh vegetables and fruits. Walk slowly to take in the sights and sounds, window-shop and encourage yourself to chat with senior Mylaporeans sitting at their doorstep, willing to share stories and legends of the area.
Visit the temple ( closed between 12.30 and 3 pm - there are no official guides inside).
Tip: If you have time, slip into the huge temple tank, filled with water to savour the quiet or roam the inner streets that lead from the Mada Streets.