Top Chennai Historical Tours

Explore Chennai's Mylapore neighborhood with a local guide and learn about the rituals of daily life, hear stories of gods and demons, and gain a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions. This popular walking tour showcases the highlights and the history of this incredible city and is not to be missed.

See the eclectic marketplaces and colorful bazaars on this memorable walking tour of Chennai. Explore George Town and uncover the stories of daily life and local people as you listen to your friendly local guide share historical legends and old folklore. You'll navigate the crowded markets and narrow lanes as you experience the life of a local on this interactive and engaging tour that's not to be missed.

Explore a medieval kingdom’s capital and visit its renowned sari makers on this all-day tour. After a convenient pickup from your Chennai hotel, travel by private vehicle or your own motorcycle to Kanchipuram. Stop by two architecturally significant 7th-century temples before immersing yourself in the craft of sari-making. Meet a weaver and see how traditional looms are used to transform mulberry threads into gorgeous garments.

Get a primer on Pallava-style architecture on this full-day private tour to Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. Benefit from personal attention and the ability to travel at your own pace while visiting the Ekambareswar and Kailasanathar temples, then a local saree weaver. Moving on to the port of Mahabalipuram, see the Five Rathas, the shore temple, and Arjuna's Penance, learning about them through guided commentary.

Mahabalipuram is an ancient port town known for its 6th-century rock-cut temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore exquisite stone statues on this exclusive city tour, which gives an in-depth overview of sites like the famous Five Rathas, a set of Dravidian rock temples, and the Sea Shore Temple, an 8th-century granite shrine facing the Bay of Bengal. Round out the day with visits to DakshinaChitra, a “living museum” dedicated to showcasing South Indian culture, and the Madras Crocodile Bank.

The coastal town of Mahabalipuram makes an ideal day trip from bustling Chennai, but organizing admission fees and transportation to explore independently takes up valuable sightseeing time. On this tour, reach Mahabalipuram in comfort by private vehicle—with entry fees and round-trip transportation from your Chennai hotel included. Explore the Cave temples and rock sculptures with your guide to lead the way, and gain insight into Mahabalipuram’s fascinating 7th-century history.

Chennai is home to some of India's most beautiful examples of Dravidian temple architecture, and you'll get to see some of the city's finest with this tour of sacred and religious sites. Highlights include the Kapaleeshwarar Temple (Mylapore), which dates back some 300 years and the even older Sri Parthasarathy Temple (Triplicane), which was first established way back in the 8th century.

Gallic culture and history is alive and well in the old French colony of Pondicherry, a short day trip from Chennai. With this day tour, you'll not only get to walk through the historic old city, but you'll also get to visit Auroville, a gargantuan international community that has been bringing generations of people from around the world to live together in harmony since it was founded in the 1960s.

Chennai is full of old heritage buildings, from ancient Pallava-era temples to colonial-era churches and public buildings constructed under British rule. This tour takes you to some of the most interesting structures, from the 7th-century Kapaleeswarar Temple to the 20th-century Ripon Building, all in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

Travel by private, climate-controlled vehicle to Mahabalipuram, the seaside Tamil Nadu city famous for its UNESCO-listed rock-cut caves and monuments. See impressive, three-dimensional illustrations of the Mahabharata—India’s national epic—cut from colossal stones, and marvel at the ancient coastal Shore Temple. Tours include complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Chennai.

Expore the Pallavas Grand architectural masterpiece on this full day tour from Chennai. Kanchipuram is a spectacular temple city known as city of thousand temples which reflects the Glorious Traditions of South India with its noted temples. Then experience UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Mahabalipuram group of Monuments, which was carved out of rock along the Coromandel Coast in the 7th and 8th centuries rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries), giant open-air reliefs such as the famous Descent of the Ganges, and the Shore Temple, with thousands of sculptures to the glory of Shiva

Explore several of Chennai’s most must-see religious landmarks during this three-for-one guided tour. Admire the Dravidian architecture of world-famous, 7th-century Kapaleeshwarar Temple, follow worshippers to bustling Parthasarathy Temple, and learn about the city’s Portuguese heritage at St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica. Tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private air-conditioned vehicle for added comfort.

Kanchipuram, known as the “City of a Thousand Temples,” is one of India’s seven holy cities. Visit five different temples on this convenient day trip from Chennai, which includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable, private vehicle. Get a peek at local masterpieces, including a thousand-pillared sculpted hall and buildings from the Pallava and Vijayanagar dynasties, all in one whirlwind visit.

First time in Chennai? Make the most of a private guide and flexible itinerary on this 4-hour sightseeing tour. Unveil the secrets of Chennai’s rich history and heritage as you tour the fascinating Government Museum and admire the 17th-century Fort St George. Then, keep your camera poised as you drive along the scenic Marina Beach and visit the stunning Kapaleeshwar Temple.

Kanchipuram is one amongst the major historical towns of India. Situated on the banks of Vegavathi River, it has been an important learning and religious centre in the past and the ancient temples and other architectural arts exhibit its significance. Today, Kanchipuram is extremely famous for its Hindu temples and obviously, Kanchipuram sarees. Also considered as one amongst the seven pilgrimage sites of India, this spiritual town has become the destination for Hindu devotees to get themselves surrounded by spirituality and attain salvation. Kanchipuram is also famous amongst history lovers. For those who tend to walk along the historical lanes and explore its roots buried deep down the layers of time, this beautiful town is a quintessential stoppage. Ruled by Pallavas, Cholas, Vijayanagar Empire and British before independence, Kanchipuram has seen everything ranging from flourished periods to dark times.

Spend your day exploring Chennai's cultural hub of Mylapore, with this day tour. Your morning will be spent visiting the iconic 7th-century Kapaleeshwar Temple and the San Thome Basilica, followed by a traditional South Indian lunch in a local restaurant and visit the shrine at Ramakrishna Math, followed by a visit to the 17th-century Fort Saint George before returning to your hotel.

This walk is led by a cultural evangelist who will bring alive the heritage and legacy of Chennai's first settlement. Trace the evolution of George Town as the trading post for East Indian Company in the 17th century to its modern avatar as the trading hub of Chennai. Experience cultural diversity as we walk to ancient temples predating the British Era and an iconic Church of Armenian traders.

Tours are led by cultural ambassadors who will bring alive the history and culture of the times when St Thomas came to India in the first century AD.

This tour is led by a cultural evangelist who will bring alive the cultural heritage of Chennai through Marina. Marina Beach is where the pulse of Chennai can be gauged. Soak in the atmosphere and meet the city's people. While the statues tell the history of the city, the beach itself is where common people gather to voice their opinion on issues to those in power.

Get to know one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage centers and oldest Indian cities, Kanchipuram, on this private tour from Chennai. Benefit from personalized attention and the ability to travel at your own pace with a guide dedicated just to you and your private party. Learn about the history, culture, and architecture of the ancient city and visit some of the saree-weavers that give Kanchipuram the name "Silk City."

Visit one of India’s most impressive, contemporary-built temples on this full-day tour of Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, with round-trip transportation from Chennai. Explore a unique architectural wonder, landscaped in the shape of a five-pointed star and covered in real gold foil. Tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, plus stops at Jalakandeswarar Temple and Vellore Fort.

In this South India tour over 15 days, guests will experience the unique culture of the 3 South Indian States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. We will explore the architectural marvels built by patron Kings over the last 1000 years. We will also unravel the mysteries behind colourful rituals in magnificent temples. World heritage monuments of Mahabalipuram, Brihadeswar temple as well as Hampi will be the key highlights. The tour also includes a blissful 24 hours on a house boat in Kerala over the backwaters of the Arabian Sea!

- Young Archaeologist curation, Mesmerising narration, unheard stories, unseen places. - 4 Dimensional perspectives covering History, Archaeological, Architecture & Mythological - Visiting 7th Century Built monuments & temples – Rock-cut architecture, Shore temple, Lighthouse, - Walking around 2004 incident unearthed 2000 years old Subramaniya temple excavated site - Looking at wonders of nature – Krishna Butter Ball, Sea Shell Museum - Shopping seashells, stone sculptures and handicrafts

- Mesmerising narration by an young Archaeologist, unheard stories, unseen places. - Perspectives covering History, Archaeological, Architecture & Mythological - Visiting 7th Century Built monuments & temples – Rock-cut architecture, Shore temple, Lighthouse, - Walking around 2004 incident unearthed 2000 years old Subramaniya temple excavated site (Optional) - Looking at wonders of nature – Krishna Butter Ball, Sea Shell Museum (Optional) - Shopping seashells, stone sculptures and handicrafts

The Great Living Chola temples trail takes us to 3 capitals of the ancient and mighty Chola Empire which was a major maritime power controlling vast parts of South East Asia in the 10-12th centuries. We will relive the glory days of life under the Chola Empire at the world heritage sites of Brihadeswar Temple in Tanjore, Airareswar Temple in Darasuram and the temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram.

One of the oldest civilizations in the world, the culture of Tamil Nadu is one of the main areas of pride in the heritage of India. Unique in the way it represents the artistic development in Tamil Nadu, the culture of Tamil Nadu is a storehouse of treasures. In fact the culture of Tamil Nadu also forms one of the important points of focus during a tour to Tamil Nadu.

Thousands of temples with lofty towers dot the skyline of the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India. These temples are torchbearers of the glorious heritage of the Tamil speaking region, and are repositories of the magnificent art forms that have evolved over several centuries. Visit four such temples of Chennai on this half-day tour. Highlights: • Kapaleeshwarar Temple • Vadapalani Murugan Temple • Shirdi Sai Baba Temple • ISKCON Temple

Delving into Chennai’s Mylapore neighborhood independently could mean you skim over some landmarks and cultural insights, or lose your bearings. This private walking tour ensures you cover the highlights and enjoy observations on local life you’d likely miss alone. Follow the heritage Peacock Trail to the Kapaleeshwara Temple and other sights, and hear tales of Chennai's religion and culture. A tuk tuk ride, snacks, and choice of departures are included.

Discover Chennai on this private half-day tour. Visit the oldest English fortress in India and learn about its role in contemporary Tamil Nadu. Head to the Government Museum and National Gallery to admire palm-leaf manuscripts, Amravati paintings, and rare works by celebrated artists like Raja Ravi Varma. Visit a 7th Century temple and enjoy a drive along Chennai’s beautiful waterfront.

Have time to take in the top attractions of Pondicherry and Mahabalipuram on a 2-day tour from Chennai. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monuments of Mahabalipuram to see ancient rock-cut temples and carvings, then continue for an overnight in Pondicherry. On day two, your guide takes you to Auroville, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum, and other landmarks, before your evening return to Chennai. Includes 4-star hotel accommodation with breakfast, and round-trip transportation.

We ride along coast on Royal Enfield Classic Motorcycle to explore World Heritage site of rock cut monuments in Mahabalipuram and French heritage at Pondicherry. An escort rider ensures ease of navigation through the traffic.

We pick up our guest from their hotel/ Railway station/ Chennai Airport. We then head straight to St Thomas mount, Have a detailed tour of the church and our guide will explain the history and culture of the national heritage monument. After the the tour we drop you back to your hotel.

Thiruvannamalai is a town 120 miles from Chennai in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. On this day trip from Chennai visit two of the most famous historical sites of Thiruvannamalai - the Arunachaleshwara Temple and the Ashram of Sri Ramana Maharshi. The Arunachaleshwara Temple is the largest temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Highlights • 217 feet temple tower (gopuram) • Temple hall with 1 000 pillars • Cave where Sri Ramana Maharshi meditated

Admire the world's greatest architecture recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under this name of The Great Living Chola Temples. They are the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram.

This walk is led by a cultural evangelist who will explain the things required for a typical South Indian Wedding. Walk past all the shops that sell merchandise critical for an Indian Wedding. Silk, jewelry, apparel, flowers & utensils.

There is no reason or season to experiences the extraordinary sculptural creations of poetry in stone that stands testimony to the unique Dravidian architectural monuments at Mahabalipuram

This temple is in 5th of the six holy abodes (Arupadaiveedu) of Lord Muruga. It represents the site where Subramanya stayed after destroying the demon Surapadman. Tiruthani is said to be the place where the Lord Subramanya married Valli - one of his two consorts.

Luz Church (1516), St. Thomas Mount Church (1523), St. Mary's Church (1680) and Armenian Church (1772) - These churches of Chennai reflect the 500 years of rich architectural heritage and the cultural traditions of the devout Christians who built them. Let's take once in life time experiences on this tour when you're in Chennai.

Leave the city behind you and start travelling to visit world famous Arunachala Temple in Thiruvannaamalai is one of the greatest Shiva temples in India. It also widely known because of the Ashram of Sri Ramana Maharshi who lived here and taught the virtues of philosophy only through silence and meditation. After his passing away in 1950, a Samadhi has been erected at this Ashram which is visited by many devotees from India and abroad. The Ashram is situated at the foot of the hills, outside the town.

Mahabalipuram is a perfect day trip from bustling Chennai, but navigating the public transport system to reach the coastal attraction independently is challenging. On this tour, begin with a pickup at your Chennai hotel and reach Mahabalipuram with ease. Discover ancient sites like Arjuna's Penance, and admire historic artworks dating back to the Pallava dynasty.