Chennai
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Viator
Private Chennai Day Tour - Art History and Contemporary Chennai
Discover Chennai on our exclusive private day tour led by accomplished, highly educated cultural custodians with backgrounds in History, Architecture and Fine Arts. This comprehensive tour of Chennai takes you to all the highlights of Chennai - Fort St George, Egmore Museum, St Thomas Basilica, St Georges Cathedral, Kapleeshwar Temple and more. We will engage you in lively conversations and debates about Chennai's history, share interesting facts and anecdotes, and also explore the contemporary importance and pulse of the metropolis. Whether you're keen to delve into history, explore bustling markets, or savor authentic cuisine, this tour promises memories to last a lifetime. Please note: 1) The two museums usually part of the tour are closed on Fridays and other special holidays. We will visit alternate sites depending on your interests on such days 2) Lunch is not included. You must pay for your lunch as well as for the guides lunch.
5.0(24)
6 Hours - 7 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$92
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Viator
Chennai tour in car with guide-winner of traveller's choice award
Chennai city tour is an unforgettable cultural immersion in the company of an English speaking guide. It is a proud winner of the Traveller's Choice award for 2025, by TripAdvisor out of 8 million listings. The organising company is approved by the Ministry of Tourism. An audio guide is available on request in French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin & other languages. Visit the ancient town of Mylapore which used to trade pepper and fine cloth with Rome for gold. Experience mesmerizing rituals in the 7th century temples of Kapaleeswar. Learn the science behind the rituals and role of temple in modern Indian society. We visit San Thome Basilica to see the relics of St Thomas, who came here 2000 years ago. Ramakrishna Math, a monastic organisation, and Fort Saint George provide a vivid history of how the East India Company came as traders and became the rulers of India. Saibaba temple, Vivenakanada House and Marina beach add up to the unforgettable experience.
5.0(283)
7 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$80
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Viator
Private Peacock Trail Walking Tour in Mylapore
Have you ever wondered why there are so many Gods in India? Or what the stars have to do with your future? As you walk through the Mylapore neighborhood in Chennai, explore fascinating stories hidden from the mundane rituals of daily life in South India - stories of Gods and demons, and stories of ancient customs and symbolism. Mylapore is a bustling neighborhood in the heart of Chennai dated the city by at least 2,000 years and has maintained many traditions and arts that Chennai is so famous for.
4.9(57)
3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$76
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Viator
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram by tourism ministry approved company
In this day tour from Chennai, we will visit the twin wonders of Pallava architecture, Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. This tour is hosted by a Five Senses Tours which is a company approved by the ministry of tourism and is also a member of the prestigious Indian association of Tour Operators. We will cover the magnificent temples of Ekambareswar & Kailashnath in Kanchipuram. After that we visit the ancient sea port of Mahabalipuram and visit the legendary rock cut structures lie Arjuna's penance, Five Rathas and the iconic Shore temple which served literally as the beacon for sea farers from the 8th century onwards. The company promotes local livelihood by training and employing local guides and patronising local businesses. This is a fully guided tour with pick up and drop, private car, full time guide, lunch and all entrance charges as well.
4.9(280)
12 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$135
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Viator
Big Fat Indian Wedding, shopping & bazaar walking tour in Chennai
Step into the dazzling spectacle of the Big Fat Indian Wedding. This isn't a "tour"—it's a backstage pass to the world's most vibrant celebration. As a Ministry of Tourism-approved organization and proud IATO member, our Cultural Evangelists guide you through the high-stakes shopping and ancient rituals that define a South Indian union. Experience the sensory explosion of Ranganathan Street, famously known as one of the world's busiest streets. We weave through this legendary hub to find the "must-haves" for every bride: lustrous Kanjivaram silks, heirloom Temple Jewelry, and fragrant floral garlands. From traditional brass utensils to ceremonial apparel, we demystify the deep symbolism behind every purchase in Chennai’s commercial heart. Winners of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award 2025, we provide an ethical journey that supports local artisans. Join us to experience the glitter, gold, and rhythmic soul of Chennai.
4.9(16)
3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$60
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Viator
Full-Day Private Tour to the Kanchipuram Temples from Chennai
Kanchipuram is one of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism. The Pallava kings who ruled here between the 4th and 9th centuries invented the Dravidian stone temple tradition that went on to define religious architecture across South and Southeast Asia for a thousand years. The Kailasanathar Temple is the oldest surviving structural temple in Tamil Nadu and the largest sandstone temple in the world. The Ekambareswarar Temple is one of the five Pancha Bhuta Stalas, with a mango tree inside said to be over 3,500 years old. The city is equally famous for its silk sarees, woven from pure mulberry silk with gold zari borders by over 5,000 weaving families. This tour takes you into the home of a master weaver to see how they are made. Private car from Chennai, expert cultural guide, entry fees and South Indian lunch included. 5 Senses Tours is recognised by the Department of Tourism, a winner of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award and the Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award.
4.9(78)
13 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$110
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Viator
Private Bazaar Trail Walking Tour in George Town
Visit a bustling market place and streets teeming with life and color in Chennai. Walk through George Town and discover fascinating stories of the everyday life of local people. From being the Black Town to a vibrant wholesale market, this place has seen it all. Come experience the crowded markets, narrow lanes, fascinating history, and mesmerizing images!
4.9(77)
2h 30m
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$76
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Viator
One day private tour of Pondicherry from Chennai in car with a guide
This is a day trip from Chennai organized in a private car. The highlights include a visit to Aurobindo Ashram, which is dedicated to Sri Aurobindo Ghosh the philosopher and revolutionary, French heritage walk followed by French lunch, the lovely esplanade beside the Bay of Bengal, visit to a unique handmade paper factory and Auroville the global village. This is an all-inclusive trip where we take care of transport, breakfast & lunch, activities and the services of a full-time tour guide.
4.9(55)
12 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
From
$155
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Viator
Private South Indian Tamil Cooking Class in Chennai with Srividya
Join Srividya in the kitchen for a private cooking class to learn to make two to three dishes from scratch. She will teach you about a variety of South Indian culinary traditions as you cook and eat together. You will sense her pride as she shares interesting anecdotes and stories that highlight the traditions and science behind the foods you will enjoy at her table. Srividya offers vegetarian food only.
4.9(25)
3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$49
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Viator
Silk Route to Kanchipuram: A Cultural & Spiritual Day Trip
Kanchipuram's oldest temple is its most impressive, not for its size but for its weight of historical presence and the intricacy of its stonework. As much monument as living temple, Kailasanatha is quieter than other temples in town, and has been heavily restored. Dedicated to Shiva, it was built in the 8th century by Pallava king Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha), who also created Mamallapuram's Shore Temple.
4.9(12)
10 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$99
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Viator
The Pulse of Chennai: Marina Beach Heritage Walking Tour
Step onto the world’s second-longest urban beach, where rhythmic waves meet the vibrant soul of the city. This isn't just a "tour"—it's a portal into the political and spiritual heartbeat of Tamil Nadu. As a Ministry of Tourism-approved organization and proud IATO member, our Cultural Evangelists bring alive the heritage of this legendary shoreline. We journey from the ancient, intricate carvings of the Parthasarathy Temple to the serene, circular halls of Vivekananda House, where the great monk once stayed. As we walk past iconic statues that chart Chennai's history, you’ll see how this beach serves as the city's open-air town hall. It is a unique space where sacred traditions and modern public voices coexist. Winners of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award 2025, we provide an ethical, elite journey that supports our local community. Join us to experience the sand, the spirituality, and the living soul of Chennai.
4.9(45)
3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
From
$50
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Viator
Mahabalipuram walking tour by certified travel company
Meet your guide Shore temple.The UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is home to rock-cut statues that date back as far as the 7th century. Recognized as some of the oldest examples of Dravidian architecture, these well-preserved artifacts were built in honor of Hindu gods.
4.9(11)
2 Hours - 3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$47
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Viator
Explore Chennai City Tour with Guide, Lunch, and Local Highlights
Start your day in Chennai at the Sri Ramakrishna Math on RK Mutt Road, where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere for about 45 minutes. Next, visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple to admire its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant gopuram, spending about an hour there. After that, take a leisurely 45-minute stroll along Marina Beach, savoring local snacks and the sea breeze.Then, head to the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple for another 45 minutes, immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance. Follow this with a visit to Fort St. George, where you can explore the colonial museum for an hour. Afterward, make your way to Vivekananda House, dedicating 45 minutes to learn about the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.Conclude your day at the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful neo-gothic church, spending 45 minutes appreciating its architecture and tranquility.Offering a rich blend of spirituality, culture, and history, making for a memorable day in Chennai.
4.9(11)
6 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$75
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Viator
Georgetown heritage walking tour of Chennai's first settlement
Step into the labyrinthine alleys where Chennai began. This isn't a "tour"—it's a portal to the 17th-century East India Company trading post. As a Ministry of Tourism-approved organization and proud IATO member, our Cultural Evangelists reveal the city's hidden power structures. Trace the legacy of the elite Armenian bankers, whose global financial reach once dictated trade, and the enigmatic Dubashes—the bilingual power brokers who wielded the real influence behind the colonial throne. We navigate the vibrant chaos to uncover the secret architecture and stories of the diverse merchants who built Old Madras. Winners of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award 2025, we ensure your journey directly supports the local merchants and guides who keep this heritage alive. Experience the grit, the glory, and the hidden history of Chennai.
4.9(150)
3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
From
$40
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Viator
Indian Cooking Class and Market Tours in Chennai with Sundari
Join your host Sundari and experience authentic Indian life, culture and cuisine with a welcoming local in her home. Sundari will teach you to prepare 3 dishes as part of your South Indian vegetarian meal which you will later eat the traditional way - with your hands on stainless steel plates or fresh banana leaves. Your menu may include typical Tamilian vegetarian main dishes such as rasam (tangy peppery broth), sambar (lentil and tamarind based vegetable stew), and a variety of vegetable curries, rice, raita, condiments and snacks. Alternatively you may request to learn to make a South Indian brunch of dosas, idlis and vadas with a variety of chutneys instead. Come join Sundari, and leave with new recipes, a new friend and lifelong memories!
4.9(40)
3h 30m
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$75
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Viator
South India Tour- Temple Architecture and Backwaters
Travel to the two southern most states of India, neighboring each other yet incredibly different. While Kerala is known for its backwaters and palm fringed areas, Tamil Nadu is an exemplary example of temple architecture. On this remarkable tour, explore the years old temples at Madurai, Thanjavur and Mahabalipuram; walk through the tea and spice plantations in Munnar and praise the pristine beauty of Kerala as the houseboat cruises through the backwaters in this tour of 12 Nights/ 13 Days.
4.9(10)
13 Days
Chennai
- Private tour
From
$1,750
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Viator
Experience Mylapore: Enriching Walking Trail Tour
During this walk, you will visit the temple in the company of our knowledgeable guide. We will also walk through the surrounding areas, where you can see Mylapore in all its crowded chaos. The jewellers, silk merchants, fruit and vegetable sellers and the flower vendors in the bazaars provide a colourful backdrop to the temple. The walk takes us through small lanes with old-style homes, through silk shops, stores selling music and religious memorablia, ‘kutcheri’ auditoriums, etc. Visit the Kapaleeshwara Temple, the Santhome Church, and walk through the by-lanes of Mylapore during this 3-hour tour. The tour is mostly on foot with a short stretch in an auto-rickshaw (local tuk-tuk) that are arranged and included in the tour and it will end with south Indian refreshments.
4.9(18)
3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$35
No similar experiences found
Viator
Wild life tour in Chennai with guide and private car
Chennai surprises most visitors. This city of 10 million people somehow contains a crocodile bank, a national park and the largest zoo in India within its limits. The Madras Crocodile Bank, founded by legendary conservationist Romulus Whitaker, is home to over 2,500 reptiles. At the Snake Venom Centre you watch venom being extracted from live snakes to produce the anti-venom vaccines that save thousands of lives across India every year. The crocodile enrichment programme will completely change how you think about these animals. Vandalur Zoo is India's first public zoo and its largest, spread over 600 acres with over 1,500 species including 46 on the endangered list. The nocturnal animals section, butterfly house and walk through aviary are the highlights. Guindy National Park sits entirely inside the city limits of Chennai, where blackbucks, jackals and spotted deer graze within sight of apartment buildings. Private car, expert guide and all entry fees included.
4.9(9)
11 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$135
No similar experiences found
Viator
Mahabalipuram Art History and Culture Private Tour from Chennai
Discover Mahabalipuram on our exclusive private day tour led by accomplished, highly educated cultural custodians with backgrounds in History, architecture and fine arts. Mahabalipuram was an important ancient port well known to the ancient Romans and Greeks. The charming town is today renowned the world over for its exquisite 6th century rock cut temples and intricate statues of stone and is an UNESCO designated World Heritage Site - an "area of of outstanding value to humanity." You will be amazed by the art work in granite. On the way, we visit an interesting "living museum" of South India, Dakshin Chitra to enable an understanding of South Indian way of life through the centuries. The tour is perfect for those seeking an understanding in Indian art, history and culture and is children friendly. This day tour with us has been described by many discerning travellers as one of the most fascinating day tours in India. Note: Lunch not included. You must pay for the guides lunch.
4.9(9)
6 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$87
No similar experiences found
Viator
Discover Georgetown: Guided Bazaar Walk Through Vibrant Markets
On this tour, we explore the busy neighbourhood of Georgetown. This area consists of well-established specialised bazaars, with small winding streets, warehouses, covered wholesale markets, street stalls and retail shops. Originally called ‘Black Town’, the area came up in the late 1600s after the founding of Fort St. George. Local people settled here to trade and do business with the fort. A portion of Black Town was flattened in the 1700’s, to provide an open area outside Fort St George. The residents of Blacktown re-settled just beyond the open area, in what was called New Black Town. In the mid 1800’s, the open area (old Black Town) was used to construct the grand building of Madras High Court. In 1910, when King George visited India, Blacktown was renamed Georgetown. Today Georgetown continues to be a busy market area, selling everything under the sun: bangles, fabrics, fruits, vegetables, spices, stationery, jewellery, etc.
4.9(9)
2 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$35
No similar experiences found
Viator
Exploring Mylapore: A Cultural & Historical Walking Tour
During this walk, you will visit the temple in the company of our knowledgeable guide. We will also walk through the surrounding areas, where you can see Mylapore in all its crowded chaos. The jewellers, silk merchants, fruit and vegetable sellers and the flower vendors in the bazaars provide a colourful backdrop to the temple. The walk takes us through small lanes with old-style homes, through silk shops, stores selling music and religious memorablia, ‘kutcheri’ auditoriums, etc. Visit the Kapaleeshwara Temple, the Santhome Church, and walk through the by-lanes of Mylapore during this 3-hour tour. The tour is mostly on foot with a short stretch in an auto-rickshaw (local tuk-tuk) that are arranged and included in the tour and it will end with south Indian refreshments.
4.9(43)
3 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$27
No similar experiences found
Viator
Chennai day trip to Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram tour from Chennai is about the 8th century twin wonders of Pallava architecture. We will cover the magnificent temples of Ekambareswar & Kailashnath in Kanchipuram and then visit weavers of the famed Kanchipuram Silk Saree. After that we visit the ancient sea port of Mahabalipuram and visit the legendary rock cut structures lie Arjuna’s penance, Five Rathas and the iconic Shore temple which served literally as the beacon for sea farers from the 8th century onwards.
4.9(7)
12 Hours
Chennai
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
From
$144
No similar experiences found
Viator
British Architecture Walk, an immersive walking tour in Chennai
Step into the colonial grandeur of Madras, once the beating heart of British India. This isn't a "tour"—it’s a portal into the rise and fall of an empire. As a Ministry of Tourism-approved organization and proud IATO member, our Cultural Evangelists reveal the dramatic fate of the masters who once ruled these halls and defined the city’s skyline. Over three hours, we decode the architectural alchemy of Victorian Gothic, Indo-Saracenic, and Byzantine styles. From the soaring arches of Central Station and the white domes of the Ripon Building to the historic bastions of Fort St. George and the Senate House, we trace how these monuments transitioned from symbols of imperial control to the unifying pillars of modern India. Winners of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award 2025, we provide an ethical, elite journey that supports our local community. Join us to experience the architectural soul of Chennai.
4.8(64)
2h 30m
Chennai
- Free cancellation
From
$55
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Viator
Classical Tamilnadu & Kerala 14 Days tour from Chennai
Day 1: Arrive in Chennai, explore Fort St. George, Marina Beach, St. Thomas Church, and Kapaleeswarar Temple. Day 2: Visit Kanchipuram's temples, then drive to Mahabalipuram. Day 3: Explore Mahabalipuram's UNESCO sites. Day 4: Travel to Pondicherry; visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram and French colonies. Day 5: Drive to Thanjavur, stopping at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram Temples. Day 6: Explore Thanjavur, then drive to Trichy. Day 7: Visit Chettinad mansions. Day 8: Drive to Madurai, visit local highlights. Day 9: Travel to Thekkady; enjoy a boat ride and spice tour. Day 10: Experience Thekkady's wildlife. Day 11: Houseboat cruise in Alleppey. Day 12: Drive to Kochi; visit key attractions. Day 13: Explore Kochi and enjoy a Kathakali show. Day 14: Depart from Kochi.
4.8(6)
14 Days
Chennai
- Private tour
From
$749
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