Hindu Temples in Kanchipuram - A Full Day Private Tour

Chennai , India

Hindu Temples in Kanchipuram - A Full Day Private Tour

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About this experience

You will experience the best of Kanchipuram Temple City on this excursion from Chennai. This visit showcases the religion, culture and architecture of ‘The City of Thousand Temples’. Travel with your knowledgeable guide to some of the most iconic temples, including Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadaraja Perumal Temple and Kailasanathar Temple and gain a deeper understanding of Hinduism. Our private tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant and a traditional silk weaving demonstration.

Highlights
• Sri Ekambareswarar Temple
• Kailasanathar Temple
• Varadaraja Perumal Temple
• Buffet Lunch at a Local Restaurant
• Traditional silk-weaving demonstration

Available options

1- 8 Travelers

What's included

Hotel pick up / drop off within central Chennai.

English Speaking Local Guide.

Lunch

Buffet lunch at local restaurant. ( Beverage Excluded)

02 bottles of mineral water per person per day.

Transport by private vehicle.

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel in Chennai and driven to Kanchipuram, about 45 minutes away. Historically, Kanchipuram was a center of education and was known as the “ghatikasthanam”, or place of learning. The city was also a religious center of advanced education for Jainism and Buddhism between the 1st and 5th centuries. Located on the banks of the Vegavathy river, it incorporates many temples. In Vaishnavism Hindu theology, Kanchipuram is one of the seven Tirtha (pilgrimage) sites. Fourteen temples dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu are located in Kanchipuram. We will visit the three temples that exemplify this sacred town. Kailasantha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and represents a high point in Indian architecture. Ekambareshwara Temple represents the earth form of the five form-element abode of Lord Shiva. The ancient Vaikuntaperumal Temple has beautiful pillared corridors around the sanctum dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Next, visit Kanchi Kudi, a 90-year-old house, authentic in old-style architecture and functionality. It affords a glimpse of the life of an agricultural family in a small town. While temples and monuments index the cultural life of a city, the real soul of a place is to be found in its people and their homes.

The city of Kanchipuram is well known for its hand woven silk saris. Most of the city's workforce is involved in the weaving industry. We will watch a traditional silk weaving demonstration. Lunch is included at a local restaurant (beverages at own expense). Your private tour ends when you are returned back to your hotel in Chennai.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food or Drinks until or Unless Specified.

Donations.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

We may pick up travelers from city center hotels / fixed point wiithin city limits. In case pick up is outside central points extra cost shall applicable subject to distance applicable.

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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.