Chennai , India

Cultural visit of Chennai

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About this experience

Explore the traditional side of Chennai’s rich culture on this half-day tour. Start the tour with a visit to the Kalakshetra Foundation. Walk through the sprawling grounds of their campus and get an insight into the history of the traditional art and dance forms of India’s southern state of Tamil Nadu. Next visit the beautiful Kapaleeswarar Temple that is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Spend some time in the boutiques of Chennai looking at the colorful silk sarees and artifacts on display.

Highlights
• Kalakshetra
• Kapaleeshwarar temple
• Silk sarees and artifacts

Available options

1-8 Travellers

Price per person for 1-8 travellers

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person.

English speaking local Guide

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and driven to Kalakshetra Academy. It is a Foundation that was established in 1936 for the preservation of traditional values in Indian arts and crafts. It is renowned for its Dance Academy that helps to preserve the classical dance form of Bharatnatyam. The Academy is located in a sprawling 100 acres campus by the seaside.

Stop 2

Next drive to Mylapore, the most traditional neighbourhood of Chennai that is considered to be its cultural hub. Visit Kapaleeswarar temple. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. It is built in the traditional Dravidian style with a brightly coloured gopuram (top of the temple), several pillared pavilions and a large water tank. Legend has it that an angry Lord Shiva once turned his consort Parvati into a peacock. Parvati worshipped Shiva at a spot located within this temple to regain her normal form. The name Mylapore means ‘the town of peacocks’.

After the beautiful Kapaleeswarar temple spend some time looking at fine silk sarees and ancient artifacts in the boutiques of Chennai. The rich silks and colorful designs are a shopper’s delight.

At the end of the tour you will be driven back to your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Additional food or drink (unless specified)

Items of a personal nature

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 below 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Not recommended for pregnant women.

Not recommended for participants with back problems.

Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

Kalakshetra remains closed on weekends and national holidays.

Kalakshetra visiting hours: 08:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Meeting point

We may pick up travelers from city center hotels / fixed point within 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, 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.