Private Chennai City Tour with Fort St George and Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this private sightseeing tour, get ready to explore the famous landmarks of the city of Chennai including the Fort St George, Government Museum. Also, visit the famous Kapaleeshwar Temple and wander soak in the stunning beauty of the Lord Shiva Temple as you gain insight into the history of the entire city from your knowledgeable guide.
Available options
Oct 2019 TO Sept 2020
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private tour
Bottled water
Professional English Speaking guide
All taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your tour starts with a pick up from the hotel. Afterwards, you will be driven through the city to explore some of its most famous attractions. As part of the sightseeing tour, you will visit Fort St George – the first English fortress in India, founded in 1644. Get some unique insights and stories about the fortress from your guide. Explore the fort complex that currently serves as the state’s legislative assembly.
2
Stop 2
The fort is a prominent example of military architecture style. You'll visit popular landmarks inside the fort, including St. Mary's Church and Wellesley House. Also, head to the Government Museum and Art Gallery, one of the most renowned museums in India, which houses various ancient bronze artifacts and other valuable historical objects.
3
Stop 3
You will also visit the Kapaleeshwar Temple - built by the Pallava dynasty in the 7th century CE and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple showcases the typical Dravidian style of architecture, 120 feet colorful gopuram (gateway tower) with stucco figures adorning it and pillared mandapas (pavilions). The current temple is believed to have been rebuilt using the remains of the original by the Vijayanagar Kingdom in the 16th century after the Portuguese destroyed the original by the seashore in 1566, where now stands the present-day San Thome church. Legend has it that, Parvati - consort of Lord Shiva offered her devotion to Shiva here in the form of a peacock, and in Tamil peacock is called as ‘mayil’, and hence, the name developed to Mylapore (town of peacocks), the place where the temple sits now.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
During the sightseeing tour, you will drive past the Madras High Court, Marina Beach, and Flower Market.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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Important information
Dress code is smart casual
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
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
