India · City Tours

12-Hour Chennai Cultural Tour from Mahabalipuram with Heritage Stops

12 Hours Round trip from Chennai Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Discover Chennai's historic landmarks, including Kapaleeshwarar Temple and St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica
  • 02 Visit the traditional Mylapore Agraharam and witness its cultural heritage
  • 03 Explore Cholamandalam Artists' Village and admire contemporary and traditional South Indian art
  • 04 Walk along Marina Beach and experience the vibrant Pattinampakkam Fish Market

Experience Chennai's rich history and vibrant culture on a 12-hour private day trip from Mahabalipuram. Visit iconic landmarks including Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore Agraharam, St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, and Marina Beach. Explore Cholamandalam Artists' Village and the Crocodile Bank, while enjoying insights from a professional English-speaking guide. Travel comfortably with air-conditioned transport for a seamless cultural journey.

Experience Chennai's rich history and vibrant culture on a 12-hour private day trip from Mahabalipuram.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Chennai, Mahabalipuram
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Mahabalipuram to Chennai Cultural and Heritage Day Trip

08:00 AM - Meet and Greet

  • Your professional driver will meet you at your hotel in Mahabalipuram.
  • Discuss the day's plan and receive assistance with your luggage.
  • Begin the journey to Chennai.

Chennai City Tour

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Visit this prominent Dravidian-style Shiva temple, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance in the Mylapore area.
  • Mylapore Agraharam: Stroll through this traditional Brahmin neighbourhood, famous for its cultural heritage and old-world charm.
  • St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica: Visit this historic church, said to house the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Christ's apostles.
  • Pattinampakkam Fish Market: Explore this bustling fish market and experience vibrant local life.
  • Marina Beach: Walk along India's longest urban beach and enjoy stunning coastal views.
  • Egmore Government Museum: Discover ancient artifacts, sculptures, and historical exhibits at this renowned museum.

Chennai Sightseeing (Drive-By Attractions)

  • Chennai Central Railway Station: Pass by this iconic railway station, a key landmark of the city.
  • Madras High Court & Ribbon Building: Witness the architectural beauty of these historic structures as you drive past.
  • Harmonium Church: Enjoy a drive-by view of this unique, lesser-known church in Chennai.
  • Parry's Corner: Glimpse the bustling business hub of Chennai, filled with shops and colonial-era buildings.
  • Royapuram & Harbour View: Stop for a quick photo at the harbour, capturing Chennai's maritime culture.

Fort St. George & War Memorial

  • Fort St. George: Explore India's first English fortress, now housing a museum with colonial relics.
  • War Memorial: Visit the memorial dedicated to soldiers who fought for the nation.

Lunch Break (Lunch Not Included)

  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Chennai at your own cost.

Cholamandalam Artists' Village

  • Explore this unique art village, home to a thriving community of artists.
  • See contemporary paintings, sculptures, and traditional crafts, showcasing South Indian art and culture.

Crocodile Bank

  • Discover a world of reptiles at the Crocodile Bank, a renowned conservation centre.
  • Walk through lush enclosures and observe crocodiles, alligators, and other reptiles while learning about their habitats and conservation efforts.

Return to Mahabalipuram Hotel

  • After a culturally enriching day, return to your hotel in Mahabalipuram for the evening.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple, St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, Marina Beach

Where this trip takes you

Kapaleeshwarar Temple, St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, Marina Beach

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Chennai 2 cities · 12 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Air-conditioned transportation: Enjoy comfortable travel in air-conditioned vehicles.
  • Professional English-speaking guide: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of a professional English-speaking guide.
  • Entry fees: All entry fees to the attractions mentioned in the itinerary are included.
  • Bottled water: 2 complimentary bottles of water will be provided during the tour.
  • 24/7 customer service: Access the dedicated customer service team at any time, day or night.

What's Not Included

  • Lunch: Expenses incurred for lunch will not be covered or reimbursed.
  • Personal expenses: Any personal expenses, including but not limited to personal shopping, leisure activities, and non-business-related travel, will not be covered or reimbursed.
  • Tips and gratuities: Tips and gratuities given for services, unless specifically included in a pre-approved expense policy, will not be covered or reimbursed.

What to bring

  • Comfortable dress
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Cash
  • Passport or ID proof

Know before you go

  • The total distance covered will be approximately 150 km.
  • Lunch is not included in the package, but time will be allocated for it.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun.
  • Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • A camera is recommended for capturing the scenic views and memorable moments.
  • Pick-up and drop-off services are available from designated locations. Ensure you confirm your pick-up point when booking.
  • This tour is conducted in English. If you require a guide who speaks another language, please notify us in advance to check availability.
  • Ensure you carry some local currency for personal expenses, as not all locations may accept credit or debit cards.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India
Tour start
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 12 hours finish where they began, in Chennai.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

INR 3,900 /person
Book This Tour

When

Travellers

Total