Splendid Chennai: Private Half Day Tour of Chennai
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the cultural and spiritual beauty of Chennai on this private half-day tour. Chennai, known as the “Gateway to South India,” is a city full of ancient temples, colonial buildings, busy markets, and peaceful beaches. With an expert guide and comfortable car, this tour will help you see the best of Chennai in just a few hours.
Available options
CBSI017-01
Car+Driver+Guide: Includes car, driver, and guide.<br/>Pickup included
CBSI017-02
Car+Driver+Guide+Entrance Fees: This tour includes a private car with a driver, a professional guide, and all entrance fees as per the Program.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Entry tickets to all sites mentioned in the itinerary are included only with the CBSI017-02 option.
Knowledgeable English-speaking guide
Filter coffee or tea during the Mylapore stop
Private air-conditioned car with a dedicated driver
Two bottles of mineral water per person
Photo stops as outlined in the program
All local taxes and charges.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pick-up from Chennai
Your tour includes a convenient pick-up from your hotel, airport, or railway station in Chennai. Our driver and guide will meet you on time for a smooth and comfortable start to your day.
Note: The tour is expected to begin between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM (approximately).
2
Stop 2
Kapaleeshwarar Temple – Mylapore
Your tour begins with a visit to the famous Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore. This 7th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its tall and colorful gopuram (tower) covered with beautiful carvings. Feel the spiritual atmosphere as you explore the temple complex and watch devotees in prayer.
3
Stop 3
Mylapore Heritage Walk and Filter Coffee
Next, take a short walk through the traditional Brahmin streets called Agraharam. Here you will see old houses, small shrines, and locals going about their daily rituals. Enjoy a cup of authentic South Indian filter coffee prepared by the Brahmins, giving you a taste of true Chennai hospitality.
4
Stop 4
Pattinapakkam Fish Market
Continue to one of Chennai’s busiest fish markets. Watch local fishermen and women selling freshly caught fish. The market is full of life, sounds, and colours, offering you a real look into Chennai’s daily life.
5
Stop 5
Marina Beach Drive
Drive along Marina Beach, India’s longest urban beach. See people walking, children playing, and vendors selling snacks by the shore. You can also spot horseback rides along the sand, adding to the lively scene of this famous beach.
6
Stop 6
Santhome Cathedral Basilica
Visit the beautiful Santhome Church, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. This white Gothic-style church has colourful stained-glass windows and a peaceful atmosphere, reflecting Chennai’s colonial and Christian heritage.
7
Stop 7
Government Museum
End your tour with a visit to the Government Museum. This museum is one of the oldest in India and has a rich collection of art, archaeology, and natural history. It is a great place to learn more about South India’s culture and heritage.
8
Photo Stops
During your tour, you will pass by and can stop for photos at some of Chennai’s famous landmarks. You will see the red-brick Chennai Central Railway Station, the historic Fort St. George and Secretariat, and the beautiful neoclassical Ripon Building. You can also take photos at the busy Parry’s Corner Market, the Victory War Memorial near Marina Beach, the Royapuram Bridge with its city views, and the colourful streets of Broadway. Each spot shows a different side of Chennai, from its colonial past to its lively present.
What's not included
Personal expenses and tips.
Meals or snacks not mentioned.
Anything not listed under inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
7 reviews
5★
5
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No health restrictions
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
Instant confirmation
