Private Tour to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram with Pick Up
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour offers a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and heritage. Travel from Chennai to the ancient temple town of Kanchipuram, known for its beautiful temples and rich silk weaving tradition. Later, explore the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its rock-cut temples and sculptures.
Enjoy a comfortable drive, expert guidance, and entry to all major sites included in one enriching experience.
Available options
CBSI018-02
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
CBSI018-01
Car+Driver+Guide: Includes car, driver, and guide.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
2 bottles of mineral water per person
Professional English-speaking guide.
Private AC vehicle for the entire tour.
All parking fees, tolls, and local taxes
Entry tickets to all temples and monuments are included only with the CBSI018-02 option.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pickup from Chennai
Your driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel or residence in Chennai in a comfortable air-conditioned car.
Note: The tour is expected to begin between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM (approximately).
2
Drive to Kanchipuram
Relax and enjoy the journey as you pass through the countryside on your way to Kanchipuram, known as the “City of Thousand Temples”.
3
Kamakshi Amman Temple
Visit one of the most important temples dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, detailed carvings, and traditional Dravidian architecture.
4
Varadharaja Perumal Temple
Explore this famous temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. Walk through its grand halls, see the impressive stone pillars, and feel the spiritual aura of this important pilgrimage site.
5
Ekambareswarar Temple
A grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its massive gopuram (tower) and ancient mango tree believed to grant wishes. Discover its rich history and detailed stone work. It is one of the five elemental Shiva temples, representing the earth element.
Weaving Center Visit (Optional)
If time allows, visit a local weaving center where traditional Kanchipuram silk sarees are made by hand. You’ll get a chance to see how the colorful and rich textiles come to life.
6
Drive to Mahabalipuram
Continue your journey with a scenic drive towards the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, passing through villages and green fields.
7
Stop 7
Shore Temple
This temple stands by the sea and was built in the 8th century. It is made of stone and shows the brilliance of ancient Pallava architecture. The temple offers a stunning view of the ocean.
8
Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots)
Explore five impressive stone structures, each carved from a single rock. These represent the five Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata. Each has a unique design and artistic style.
9
Stop 9
Arjuna’s Penance & Krishna’s Butterball
See a large rock carving that tells stories from Indian mythology. It is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Nearby, look at a huge round rock, famously known as Krishna’s Butterball, which rests mysteriously on a slope.
10
Return to Chennai
After your wonderful day exploring temples and heritage sites, relax in your car as you drive back to Chennai with sweet memories of your journey.
What's not included
Meals and snacks
Tips for guide and driver
Camera or video charges at monuments
Personal expenses
Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No health restrictions
Travellers will spend time in transfer from one place to another place also.
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
