One-Day Sacred Temples Tour: Chennai to Kanchipuram & Vellore
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a spiritual odyssey with the "One-Day Sacred Temples Tour: Chennai to Kanchipuram & Vellore," commencing at 6:00 AM from Chennai. Marvel at Kanchipuram, the "City of Thousand Temples," where you'll explore the Kamakshi Amman Temple, known for its exquisite architecture and vibrant festivals. Delve into the grandeur of Ekambareswarar Temple, adorned with a colossal mango tree dating back over 3,500 years, and visit the ancient Kailasanathar Temple, showcasing Dravidian-style architecture. Witness the beauty of Varadharaja Perumal Temple and relish a traditional South Indian lunch. Journey to Vellore to encounter the Golden Temple, a gilded marvel, and explore the historical Vellore Fort with its ancient Hindu temple. Conclude your day at Jalakandeswarar Temple Tank, known for its serene ambiance. Depart from Vellore at 6:00 PM, returning to Chennai by 8:30 PM, carrying cherished memories of a day filled with spiritual enrichment and historical wonders.
Available options
Car Only
Includes: Private Car with Driver.
<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide & Entrance
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
<br/>Pickup included
Car & Guide
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.
<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
English speaking local guide, if option selected.
Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.
Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.
Lunch, if option selected.
Government Taxes.
Bottled water in the car.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
6:00 AM: Depart from Chennai to Kanchipuram, known as the "City of Thousand Temples".
2
7:30 AM: Arrive at Kanchipuram and visit Kamakshi Amman Temple, one of the oldest and most famous temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi, a form of Parvati. This temple is known for its exquisite architecture, beautiful sculptures, and vibrant festivals. Explore the temple complex, admiring the towering Gopuram (tower), intricately carved pillars, and the sanctum sanctorum where the main deity is housed.
3
9:00 AM: Proceed to Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is known for its 57-meter-high Gopuram and a massive mango tree in the temple courtyard that is believed to be over 3,500 years old.
4
10:30 AM: Visit Kailasanathar Temple, one of the oldest temples in Kanchipuram dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is known for its Dravidian-style architecture, intricate carvings, and well-preserved frescoes.
5
11:30 AM: Visit Varadharaja Perumal Temple, a famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its exquisite architecture and beautiful sculptures. This temple is also known for its 100-pillar hall, which is a marvel of ancient engineering.
6
12:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of the region.
7
1:00 PM: Depart from Kanchipuram to Vellore
8
3:00 PM: Arrive at Vellore and visit the Golden Temple, also known as Sripuram Mahalakshmi Temple, a spiritual and architectural marvel covered with gold-plated sheets and adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings. Explore the temple complex, marveling at the golden exteriors and the serene ambiance.
9
4:00 PM: Explore Vellore Fort, a 16th-century fort known for its impressive ramparts, moat, and ancient Hindu temple located within the fort complex. The fort has a rich history and offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas. Take a walk along the fort walls, admire the historical structures, and learn about the stories associated with the fort.
10
5:00 PM: Relax at Jalakandeswarar Temple Tank, known for its tranquil ambiance, and take in the serene atmosphere. This ancient temple tank is believed to have healing properties and is a popular spot for meditation and reflection.
11
Stop 11
Pass by
6:00 PM: Depart from Vellore and head back to Chennai.
8:30 PM: Arrive at Chennai and conclude the tour with beautiful memories of the temples and their rich history.
What's not included
Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Chennai
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and bustling streets. It's a melting pot of tradition and modernity, offering everything from ancient temples to modern IT hubs.
Top Attractions
Marina Beach
Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching over 13 km along the Bay of Bengal.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
Fort St. George
This historic fort was the first English fortress in India and is now a museum showcasing the city's colonial past.
Historical
1-2 hours
INR 50
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and a major pilgrimage site.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Government Museum
One of the oldest museums in India, it houses a vast collection of artifacts, including bronze sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
INR 25
Breezy Beach
A quieter alternative to Marina Beach, Breezy Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Beach
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dosa
A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, often served with sambar and chutney.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian
Idli
Soft, steamed rice cakes made from fermented batter, typically served with sambar and chutney.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Filter Coffee
A strong, aromatic coffee made using a traditional filter, often served with milk and sugar.
Drink
Non-vegetarian
Chettinad Chicken
A spicy, flavorful chicken dish from the Chettinad region, known for its unique blend of spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Non-vegetarian
Popular Activities
Scuba diving
Snorkeling
Surfing
Beach visits
Spa treatments
Yoga
Temple visits
Music and dance performances
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the best time to visit Chennai as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Tamil
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Chennai is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or app-based services like Ola and Uber.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
- • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Getting there
By air
- Chennai International Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore
By bus
Koyambedu, CMBT
Getting around
Public transport
The Chennai Metro is a modern, efficient, and air-conditioned system that covers major parts of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Mylapore
T. Nagar
Besant Nagar
Day trips
Mahabalipuram
60 km from Chennai • Half day to full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples, rock-cut caves, and sculptures.
Kanchipuram
75 km from Chennai • Full day
A historic city known for its ancient temples, silk sarees, and religious significance.
Pondicherry
160 km from Chennai • Overnight
A former French colony with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures, known for its beaches, architecture, and spiritual centers.
Festivals
Pongal • January
Chennai Music Season • December-January
Chennai Film Festival • December
Pro tips
- Visit the city's temples and historical sites early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Try the local street food, but be cautious and choose vendors with high turnover to ensure freshness.
- Use app-based services like Ola and Uber for convenient and reliable transportation.
- Explore the city's vibrant street art and mural scene, with numerous murals and art installations throughout the city.
- Visit the city's beaches, such as Marina Beach and Breezy Beach, for a relaxing break from the bustling city life.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
