Sacred Temple Tour: Chennai to Tiruvannamalai & Golden Temple
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Sacred Temple Tour: Chennai to Tiruvannamalai & Golden Temple

Active
10h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a spiritual odyssey with the "Sacred Temple Tour: Chennai to Tiruvannamalai & Golden Temple." Commencing from Chennai at 6:00 AM, you'll travel in comfort with a knowledgeable guide providing insights throughout. In Tiruvannamalai, the Arunachaleswarar Temple awaits, a revered Shiva temple with intricate sculptures and vibrant rituals. After a leisurely lunch, proceed to Vellore to witness the splendor of the Golden Temple dedicated to Lord Narayani. The journey back to Chennai, covering approximately 200 kilometers, will be accompanied by your guide's commentary, enriching your understanding of the sacred sites. The tour concludes at 8:00 PM in Chennai, leaving you with profound spiritual experiences and cherished memories. Explore the historical Vellore Fort and the Jalakandeswarar Temple, marveling at their architectural brilliance and connecting with the rich traditions they represent. After sightseeing, your journey concludes with a drop-off at your Chennai hotel.

Available options

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.
<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide & Entrance

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
<br/>Pickup included

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.
<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: Start your day early and depart from Chennai in a private car with a knowledgeable driver and an accompanied guide who will provide you with insights and information throughout the trip.

2

10:00 AM - Arrival at Arunachaleswarar Temple: Arrive at Tiruvannamalai and head straight to the Arunachaleswarar Temple.

3

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Lunch break: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant and savor the local cuisine.

4

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Visit Vellore Golden Temple: Drive to Vellore and visit the famous Golden Temple, a stunning shrine dedicated to Lord Narayani. Your tour guide will provide you with information about the temple and its significance, and accompany you during the visit.

5
Stop 5 Pass by

4:00 PM - Departure: Start your return journey back to Chennai, which is approximately 200 kilometers and takes around 4 hours to reach, with your knowledgeable tour guide and driver.

8:00 PM - Arrival in Chennai:

6

The Vellore Fort built during Channa Bommi Nayaka and Thimma Reddy Nayaka in the 15th century and happens to be one of the best examples of military architecture in South India. These two who built Vellore fort were Chieftains under Sadashiva Raya who was the ruler of Vijayanagara at that time. It is one of the most massive forts built during its time and is considered as one of the unique forts in India. It is spread over an area of more than 500 meters, situated at an altitude of 220m. Located right in the centre of the city, it has a giant moat at its entrance, where 10,000 crocodiles used to swim earlier.

7

Jalakandeswarar Temple is located, precisely within Vellore Fort. The temple is a magnificent representation of grand Vijayanagaram Architecture. One may also observe detailed sculptures dedicated to other Hindu deities such as Lord Vishnu, Goddess Mahalakshmi, Goddess Parvati, Lord Brahma, and Goddess Saraswathi. The Temple is a highly regarded landmark highlighting the architectural skill of ancient times, while showcasing the significance of special traditions upheld by the Hindu community, which invoke feelings of peace and a connection to the divine.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

After sightseeing drive back to Chennai and drop off to your hotel.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

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

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Childs
Age 5-10
0
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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