Chennai Tour to Sacred Hills and Eco Trails
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Why This Tour Is Special:
Efficient & Comfortable: Designed to save time and fuel, all destinations are in close proximity to minimize travel.
Spiritual & Scenic: Experience Chennai’s Christian heritage along with lush greenery and nature walks.
Photo-Friendly: Stunning hilltop views, colorful gardens, and wetlands offer perfect photo opportunities.
Flexible & Relaxed: Includes a snack break and options to match your interest in nature or botany.
Available options
Chennai Tour to Sacred Hills and Eco Trails
What's included
Entrance fee
Coffee and/or Tea
South Indian or North Indian Snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Historical & Religious Significance:
St. Thomas Mount is believed to be the martyrdom site of St. Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.
St. Thomas arrived in India around AD 52 and spread Christianity in the Malabar region.
The mount has a fortified hilltop chapel built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
Pilgrims from across India and abroad visit this shrine, making it a major Christian pilgrimage site in India.
Hilltop shrine where St. Thomas attained martyrdom
Portuguese chapel with ancient relics
Beautiful panoramic views of Chennai city + airport
Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
2
Stop 2
Historical & Religious Significance:
The cave at Little Mount is believed to be where St. Thomas, the Apostle, lived while he preached in Chennai.
It is said he hid in this cave to escape persecution.
A footprint of St. Thomas is preserved inside the cave, venerated by pilgrims.
The site has been a Christian pilgrimage center for centuries and features a chapel built atop the hill.
3
Semmozhi Poonga is a well-maintained botanical garden created to showcase native and exotic plant species.
The name “Semmozhi” means “Classical Language” in Tamil, symbolizing a blend of culture and nature.
Designed as a green lung for the city, offering a quiet, serene environment amidst Chennai’s urban bustle.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
no health restrictions
Meeting point
Will meet in arrival gate
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
