Private Heritage Tour Of Chennai (Madras)

Chennai , India

Private Heritage Tour Of Chennai (Madras)

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About this experience

On this half day tour discover the architectural heritage of Chennai. Located on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal, the city once served as a trading outpost for the East India Company. Drive past some of the heritage buildings of Chennai and discover the colonial past of the city. You will be able to see prime examples of Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, which flourished in the 19th century as British architects combined Gothic styles with India's Indo-Islamic architecture.

Highlights
• Indo-Saracenic architectural style
• Photo stop at buildings with Gothic, Islamic, and Hindu characteristics
• Learn about Chennai's history and culture through the lens of its buildings
• Visit to the Government Museum, second oldest museum of India

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers

What's included

02 bottles mineral water per person

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 Chennai for the four-hour drive around the city to discover some of the finest examples of its architectural heritage that date back to the times when it served as a trading port for the British.

A number of the Heritage buildings served as administrative offices for the British. The unique Indo-Saracenic architectural style is distinctly visible in the sites lined up on this itinerary. You will drive past and photo stop at important buildings such as the Madras High Court, State Bank of India, General Post Office, Metropolitan Magistrate Courts, Southern Railway Headquarters, and the Ripon Building.

Stop 2

Then continue to landmarks like Victoria Public Hall, Senate House, Victoria Hostel

Stop 3

and the National Art Gallery.

Stop 4

Before finishing your tour you may visit the Government Museum, which is the second oldest museum of India. The museum has a rich archaeological and numismatic collection and the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe.

At the end of the tour you will be dropped back at your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

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

A moderate amount of walking is involved.

Government Museum & Fort St. George remain closed on Fridays and National Holidays.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

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.