With its gorgeous coastline, breathtaking temples, and impressive architecture, Chennai is a city that never fails to delight. This captivating city along India’s Bay of Bengal has an incredible amount to do, see, and explore for solo adventurers. Travel to Tamil Nadu’s capital city for amazing culinary heritage, beautiful beaches, wondrous attractions, and more! Admire the city’s stunning architecture, as you tour amazing landmarks, like the phenomenal Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Victoria Hall and discover the city’s rich and fascinating history, as you wander through the exhibits in the Government Museum.
Explore the bustling bazaars, where wares glitter jewel-bright, or sample the delectable cuisine of the region on a food tour through the lively neighborhoods. After a busy day of sightseeing, soak up the sunshine and sink your toes in the sand on beautiful Marina Beach. From the hectic markets to the historic temples, Chennai is awash in vibrant color and the city is a veritable feast for the senses. The fantastic tours listed below are an amazing way to experience this stunning city. Read more about them here, and start planning your trip to Chennai today!
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1. Private tour: Half-day Chennai sightseeing with Government Museum and Kapaleeshwar Temple
This flexible, private tour takes you to some of the most popular spots in Chennai. Over the course of four hours, you’ll visit renowned temples, historic neighborhoods, and magnificent landmarks as your guide shares stories from Chennai’s fascinating history. Admire the gorgeous 7th-century architecture of brilliant Kapaleeshwar Temple and browse stunning exhibits of art and artifacts in the enthralling Government Museum.
Immerse yourself in the history of India’s colonial past, as you explore Fort St George, the oldest English fortress in India, and indulge in some rest and relaxation on the soft sands of Marina Beach. This tour is perfect for an immersive overview of the city.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Government Museum Chennai is a must-visit spot in this vibrant city. I was struck by the building's impressive Indo-Saracenic architecture and the expanse of greenery around it. The most well-known section here is the building dedicated to South Indian Bronze sculptures, showcasing bronze figurines of several mythological and historical personas from different historical periods. Another favorite section of mine is the one with sculptures and relics from the ruin of the Buddhist stupa at Amaravati.
2. Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram private caves & temples tour
This incredible 10-hour tour is the best way to explore the magnificent temples and historic architecture of Chennai and immerse yourself in the culture of India’s Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. Departing from Chennai, the tour starts in the village of Mahabalipuram, where you can discover unique stone carvings from the seventh and eighth centuries, as well as magnificent shrines and verdant gardens.
The tour continues to Kanchipuram, which is known as the “Golden City of a Thousand Temples.” Here, you’ll marvel at astounding sights, like the Kailasanatha Temple, Vaikunda Perumal Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, and Ekambareswara Temple! You’ll also be able to shop for luxurious Kanchipuram silk before you head back to Chennai.
3. Chennai heritage buildings & local culture private tour
Chennai brims with architectural flair and you can discover the history of some of the city’s beautiful buildings in this five-hour tour. This tour features many of Chennai’s magnificent landmarks! Marvel at the confluence of Hindu, Islamic and Gothic influences, as you explore remarkable sights, like Kapaleeshwarar Temple, St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, the Parthasarathy Temple, and Marina Beach. As you check out these sights, your knowledgeable driver will provide you with the cultural heritage and history of these landmarks.
4. Bazaar trail walking tour in George Town
Discover the local lives of residents through the bustling bazaars and the history of the markets on this engaging two and a half hour tour. As you wind your way through the narrow lanes of George Town, your experienced guide will teach you about social traditions and local history. This tour is an engaging way to learn about local folklore and cultural heritage while feasting your eyes on the vibrant stalls in a locally-popular flower and vegetable market.
Book Tours : Bazaar Trail Walking Tour in George Town
5. Chennai, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and Marina Beach private tour
This fantastic three-hour tour is a sightseeing extravaganza across Chennai that leads you to some of the city’s most renowned attractions. Start your tour at the historic St. George Fort and learn about the city’s colonial past, as you stroll through the fascinating exhibits of the Fort Museum.
From there, you’ll head to the breathtaking Kapaleeshwarar Temple that dazzles with its colorful ornamentation and then to the intriguing Government Museum, which brims with unique, cultural artifacts. The tour concludes with a visit to Marina Beach, the second longest beach in the world, where you can relax with your toes in the sand, after a busy day of exploring.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Tourists interested in heritage must not miss Kapaleeshwarar Temple. One of the oldest in Chennai, this Shiva temple has a huge pond attached to it, as is the custom in Tamil Nadu. I love to sit by this pond and watch the flock of ducks swimming on the still water. I still remember once, unknowingly, I went to the pond during a festival that involved taking the deities on a float around the pond. I think it was in January. The nadaswaram (traditional wind instrument) music accompanying the procession still reverberates in my mind.
There is also a market area surrounding the temple, which has several saree stores. My favorite amongst them is Kanchi Weavers.
6. Small-group guided food trail in the Sowcarpet Market
Each region in India has an impressive food culture and you can discover the flavor of Chennai in this two and a half hour walking tour. There are so many diverse dishes to try on this foodie expedition! Snack on local street food favorites, like savory chaats, and try South Indian dishes, like a Murukku sandwich, Thattu Idli, Pal Kova, and more, as you stroll past street vendors and colorful stalls. As you explore the Sowcarpet Market, your local guide will share the stories, superstitions, and customs that shape the area.
7. Arts & crafts shopping tour at Poompuhar, Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan, and Co-optex
Embark on a shopping safari with this arts and crafts-focused tour. This exploration highlights the brilliant local artisans of Tamil Nadu and includes visits to the communities of Poompuhar, Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan, and Co-optex Center. View modern interpretations of ancient art forms as you meet vendors who carve, sculpt, and cast, or scope out unique souvenirs to take back to friends and family. From silk sarees to hand-crafted jewelry, you’ll find a plentitude of stunning goods and wares on this tour!
Book Tours : Amsterdam Self-Guided Audio Tour
8. Half-day shopping tour in Chennai
Scout out the best souvenirs and shop at local favorite spots in this half-day shopping experience tour. Chennai is renowned as a shopper’s paradise and there are so many unique stalls and stores to check out on this shopping extravaganza! Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to all the hidden gems in the city and can provide helpful tips on how and when to bargain. The tour is four to six hours long and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Book Tours : Chennai Private Shopping Tour
9. Chennai: Private tour with a local
Get a local’s perspective of Chennai, as you explore the exciting and energetic city on this walking tour. A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the area’s vibrant streets and provide useful tips and sightseeing recommendations.
Book Tours : Chennai: Welcome Private Tour w/ a Local
10. Peacock trail walking tour in Mylapore
This brilliant three-hour tour guides you through the vivid and historic neighborhood of Mylapore, which brims with fascinating fables and myths. The area is rich in cultural and spiritual heritage and your guide will play the part of storyteller and historian, as you roam the vibrant streets. The tour meanders along the Peacock Trail and includes visits to remarkable landmarks, like the Kapaleeshwara Temple and Santhome Church. A ride on a local tuk-tuk and South Indian refreshments are also included in the tour.
Book Tours : Peacock Trail Walking Tour in Mylapore
A city of adventure, architecture, and art
With its colorful neighborhoods, rich cultural heritage, and dramatic architecture, Chennai is a city of unceasing enchantment. There is so much to see, do, taste, and try in this vibrant city, and an organized tour can help you make the most of your vacation. Start planning your trip today!
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