Chennai Cultural Day Tour with Mahabalipuram Drop

6 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Embark on a full-day guided tour of Chennai, where history, culture, and spirituality come alive. Begin by exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, including the sacred Kapaleeshwarar Temple, colonial treasures like Santhome Church and St. George Fort, and heritage neighborhoods such as Royapuram and White Town. Immerse yourself in Chennai’s vibrant street life, bustling markets, and coastal charm along Marina Beach. In the afternoon, continue your journey along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram, famous for its UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples and pristine shoreline. Conclude the day with a comfortable drop-off at your hotel or designated location in Mahabalipuram, making it an ideal experience for travelers seeking a blend of city sights, cultural heritage, and coastal beauty in a single day.

What's Included

24/7 Customer Service: Access our dedicated customer service team at any time, day or night.
Bottled water
Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of our professional, English-speaking guides.
Entry fees: All entry fees to the attractions mentioned in the itinerary.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch - Expenses incurred for lunch will not be covered or reimbursed.
Any personal expenses, personal shopping, and non-business-related travel,
Tips and gratuities are not covered or reimbursed unless pre-approved in the expense policy.”

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Pick-up and Drop-off: Pick-up and drop-off services are available from designated locations. Ensure to confirm your pick-up point when booking. Language: This tour is conducted in English. If you require a guide who speaks another language, please notify us in advance to check availability. Local Currency: Ensure to carry some local currency for personal expenses, as not all locations may accept credit or debit cards. Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, especially for activities involving walking. For visits to religious sites, modest attire is required. Behavior and Conduct: All participants are expected to behave respectfully towards fellow travelers, the guide, and local communities. Any disruptive behavior may result in removal from the tour without a refund.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    Meet your driver at the designated pickup point in Chennai for a warm welcome and a brief overview of your day’s itinerary before beginning your comfortable journey. Your first stop is the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, one of Chennai’s most sacred landmarks. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 7th-century Dravidian-style temple features a vibrant gopuram, intricate carvings, and lively courtyards. The temple’s rituals, echoing chants, and timeless architecture beautifully reflect the spiritual and cultural essence of Tamil Nadu.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Mylapore Agraharam, Chennai Stroll through the traditional Mylapore Agraharam, where narrow lanes lined with old Brahmin homes echo the charm of Chennai’s cultural past. The scent of jasmine, temple bells, and the sight of kolams at every doorway create a serene, timeless atmosphere that captures the essence of South Indian heritage.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Santhome Church, Chennai Visit the majestic Santhome Church, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. This striking neo-Gothic basilica, with its soaring spires and stained-glass interiors, stands as a symbol of Chennai’s rich colonial and spiritual history, blending European architecture with deep Christian significance.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    xplore Pattinampakkam, a vibrant coastal neighborhood of Chennai. Known for its bustling fishing community, sea-facing homes, and proximity to Marina Beach, this area beautifully reflects the city’s deep connection with the Bay of Bengal. The rhythmic waves, colorful boats, and lively morning markets give visitors a true taste of Chennai’s coastal culture and everyday life.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Marina Beach

    Experience the charm of Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Stretching along the Bay of Bengal, it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy sea breezes, golden sands, and colorful sunsets. The lively promenade, dotted with food stalls and statues of Tamil icons, perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Chennai.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Visit the Government Museum in Egmore, one of India’s oldest and most prominent museums. Established in 1851, it houses an extensive collection of art, archaeology, and natural history exhibits, including South Indian bronzes, ancient sculptures, coins, and fossils. The museum offers a fascinating journey through Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural and historical heritage, making it a must-see for history and art enthusiasts.

    30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 7

    Visit the Madras High Court and the iconic Ribbon Building, symbols of Chennai’s colonial heritage. The High Court, with its majestic Indo-Saracenic architecture, is one of India’s oldest judicial buildings, while the Ribbon Building adds a unique architectural charm with its distinctive layout and heritage value. Together, they reflect the city’s legal, administrative, and historical legacy.

    15 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 8

    Explore Chennai Central Railway Station, the bustling gateway to Tamil Nadu. Built in 1873, this iconic landmark is known for its striking Gothic-style architecture, busy platforms, and vital role in connecting Chennai to the rest of India. It’s not just a transport hub but also a glimpse into the city’s colonial history and vibrant urban life.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9

    Visit the Harmonium Church in Parry’s Corner, a quaint colonial-era landmark in the heart of Chennai. Known for its charming architecture and historic significance, the church has long served the local community as a place of worship and a venue for cultural gatherings. Its serene interiors and vintage ambiance offer a peaceful escape amid the bustling commercial district.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 10

    Experience the scenic Royapuram Harbor View, a lively stretch along Chennai’s historic port area. Watch colorful fishing boats, bustling docks, and the daily life of the maritime community, all set against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal. This spot offers a glimpse into Chennai’s rich maritime heritage and vibrant coastal culture.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 11
    Fort St. George

    Explore St. George Fort, Chennai’s historic landmark and the first British fortress in India, built in 1644. Within the fort lies the Fort Museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of artifacts, weapons, and memorabilia from the colonial era. This site offers a glimpse into Chennai’s military history, colonial architecture, and the city’s transformation over centuries.

    30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 12

    Discover the Victory War Memorial, a prominent landmark on Anna Salai in Chennai. Built to honor the soldiers who fought in World War I, it features an obelisk, statues, and landscaped surroundings. The memorial stands as a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, offering visitors a reflective glimpse into India’s military history.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 13

    Conclude your day with a comfortable drop-off at Mahabalipuram. Relax as you are safely transferred to your hotel or designated location, reflecting on a day filled with stunning temples, coastal views, and the cultural wonders of Tamil Nadu.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Treasure Tours

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Car Tours
Shore Excursions
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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