Over 3 hours, the Mahabalipuram walking tour will teleport you to the 7th century incredible rock cut monuments. It is hosted by a company approved by the ministry of tourism and is a member of Indian Tour Operators Association.

This tour can be done by walk or in your vehicle. We can also arrange a tuk tuk or autorickshaw.
You will experience masterpieces from this world heritage site like the Pancha Rathas which are rock cut monolith temples, Arjuna's Penance the giant open air rock relief, the gravity defying Krishna's butterball and the Shore temple which is the last remaining of the 7 Pagodas mentioned by Marco Polo. 

Mahabalipuram is the proud recipient of world's first stone carving city declaration. However, the next generation of sculptors are moving to the cities for jobs threatening a slow death for this fine art. Our company is helping this community by training & employing local guides and by procuring their wares to strengthen their livelihood.
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Mahabalipuram walking tour by tourism ministry approved company

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!

Private Bazaar Trail Walking Tour in George Town

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.

Private Peacock Trail Walking Tour in Mylapore

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.


Discover Georgetown: Guided Bazaar Walk Through Vibrant Markets

If you are touring South India, I am sure you will come across a temple at least once.

But… Do you know how many different types of sculptures exist?
How about the the protrusions on the temples walls? What are the stories behind them?
Have you ever wondered - how the temple tradition developed in India?
Are you aware of how many different types of temple architecture exist in India?
Tell me - wouldn't you want to get some historical and aesthetic context to appreciating Indian temple traditions?

Come! Join Jvala's cultural immersion curated as a slow travel along the shores of Mahabalipuram, the scenic UNESCO site. Get ready to be transported to the period of Pallava dynasty and experience sublime.

Mahabalipuram Slow Travel Cultural Tour

01 Day Chennai Tour (09:00 AM – 08:00 PM)

Vehicle will be reported as per your convenient place in Chennai city, later Start from your hotel/Adresses in one of our finely maintained cars. Driven by the English speaking Chauffeurs, will guarantee you an excellent trip in India. Our wide range of fleet can cater to the diversified kinds of clientele, assuring a hassle free and comfortable travel. full day city tour as per the below itinerary also you can add or skip places as per your convenient with in the Chennai city limit after completion of tour you will be dropped as your convenient with in Chennai city limit Hotel/Adresses.   

Chennai city sightseeing by Private Vehicle

Cycle through scenic countryside to Kadumbai Village near Mahabalipuram. Experience authentic Tamil rural life and local traditions. Visit ancient temples, farms, and interact with villagers. Led by knowledgeable local guides for cultural insights. An eco-friendly, offbeat adventure away from tourist crowds.

Village Bicycle Day Tour in Mahabalipuram

Your private tour will follow the footsteps of St. Thomas, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus.  You will visit the Basilica of San Thome as well as St Thomas Mount where he was killed.  This has been a well known Christian pilgrimage site for centuries. After the tour, lunch will be included at a local restaurant.

Highlights
 • San Thome Basilica 
 • Ancient image of Our Blessed Mother 
 • Cave at Little Mount to see prints of St Thomas

Follow in the footsteps of St Thomas - a Private Pilgrimage Tour in Chennai

Chennai, formerly called Madras, was the capital of Southern British India. Many great monuments were built during the British rule and several of them continue to dominate the skyline of Chennai even today. During this walking tour, we will visit a number of the prominent landmarks of Chennai, which were built during the British era, often in an architectural style blending British as well as Indian elements. We shall start at the Central Railway Station and walk to the Ripon Building, Southern Railway Headquarters, Victory Memorial, Fort St George, Napier Bridge and finish at the Madras University building.

Highlights
 • Central Railway Station 
 • Ripon Building 
 • Southern Railway Headquarters 
 • Fort St George (Fort Remains Closed Every Friday) 
 • Napier Bridge

British Architecture Walk in Chennai

On this half day tour of Chennai visit the international headquarters of the Theosophical Society and retrace the steps of its founders, Mme. Blavatsky and Col. Olcott. Next visit the campus of the Kalakshetra Foundation and get a glimpse into the traditional art and dance forms of South India. End the tour with a walk on Elliot's Beach.

Highlights
 • Campus of the Theosophical Society 
 • Kalakshetra Foundation 
 • Elliot's Beach

Kalakshetra, Theosophical Society & Elliots Beach - Chennai

This Walk covers some well known sites of Chennai while walking through one of its oldest areas.
On this Walk, you can:
-Visit the St. Thomas Church built over the tomb of an apostle & pay reverence to his relic;
-Watch devout hindus pray at the 7th CE Kapalishwara temple;
-Awe at the temple towers adorned with polychromatic & intricate carvings of various Hindu deities;
-Soak in the sights, smells & sounds of the fruits, flowers & vegetable market;
-Understand the basic tenets of Jainism which is older than Buddhism;
-Navigate thro' streets filled with old houses, residents, small shops, eateries, etc. which establish the antiquity of the place;
-Understand why India is such a strong spiritual destination by visiting the Ramakrishna Math;
(1) Please wear clothes so as to cover your legs & shoulders.
(2) We suggest to wear sandals since we have to remove footwear multiple times.
(3) Please note morning & afternoon Walks are in opposite directions to go with the direction of sunlight.

A Heritage Walk thro Temples, Church & Market in Mylapur, Chennai

On your private tour you will discover the unique culture of Chennai. Experience a colorful prayer ceremony at the historical healing temple of Marundeeswarar, enjoy a south Indian breakfast, watch the classic 'bharatanatyam' dance and explore an art gallery. 

This Chennai's regional, cultural, food, and art tour is somehow a kind cultural tour. Experience a colorful prayer ceremony at the historical healing temple of Marundeeswarar, watch the ancient dance form of 'bharatanatyam,' explore an art gallery, and enjoy a typical south Indian breakfast.

Highlights
 • Explore Chennai city's regional, food, and art scenes. 
 • See a morning Pooja prayer ritual at the Marundeeswarar Temple  
 • Learn about Marundeeswarar's history and reputed healing powers 
 • Experience classic 'bharatanatyam' dance and music at an arts academy 
 • South Indian breakfast. (Beverage Excluded).

Temple, Breakfast and Dance: Discover the Culture of Chennai

On this day trip from Chennai, visit the Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple at Sripuram. The temple is gilded with gold. Nearly 3 300 pounds of pure gold was used in the construction of this temple, which is twice the amount used at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth.

 Highlights
 • Sripuram Golden Temple, largest temple of gold in the world 
 • Vellore Fort 
 • Jalakandeswarar Temple 
 • Government Museum.

Private Day Tour To Sripuram Golden Temple From Chennai

You will experience the best of Kanchipuram Temple City on this excursion from Chennai. This visit showcases the religion, culture and architecture of 'The City of Thousand Temples'. Travel with your knowledgeable guide to some of the most iconic temples, including Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadaraja Perumal Temple and Kailasanathar Temple and gain a deeper understanding of Hinduism. Our private tour also includes a traditional silk weaving demonstration.
NOTE: (Expect More People on Ground / Monuments / Public Places During the Tour). You will have Private tour Guide during the Sightseeing Tour.

Highlights
 • Sri Ekambareswarar Temple 
 • Kailasanathar Temple
 • Varadaraja Perumal Temple
 • Traditional silk-weaving demonstration

High Hindu Temples in Kanchipuram

Chennai, formerly called Madras, was the capital of Southern British India. Many great monuments were built during the British rule and several of them continue to dominate the skyline of Chennai even today. During this walking tour, we will visit a number of the prominent landmarks of Chennai, which were built during the British era, often in an architectural style blending British as well as Indian elements. We shall start at the Central Railway Station and walk to the Ripon Building, Southern Railway Headquarters, Victory Memorial, Fort St George, Napier Bridge and finish at the Madras University building.

Highlights
 • Central Railway Station 
 • Ripon Building 
 • Southern Railway Headquarters 
 • Fort St George (Fort Remain Closed on Every Friday) 
 • Napier Bridge

British Architecture Walk in Chennai with Lunch

Why This Tour Is Special:

Efficient & Comfortable: Designed to save time and fuel, all destinations are in close proximity to minimize travel.

Spiritual & Scenic: Experience Chennai's Christian heritage along with lush greenery and nature walks.

Photo-Friendly: Stunning hilltop views, colorful gardens, and wetlands offer perfect photo opportunities.

Flexible & Relaxed: Includes a snack break and options to match your interest in nature or botany.

Chennai Tour to Sacred Hills and Eco Trails

On this day-excursion from Chennai visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram. Situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, the site has a fascinating collection of ancient cave and rock temples and sculptures dating back to the 7th and 8th century. Also visit one of the largest reptile zoos of the world. On the way back, stop at the village complex of Dakshinachitra. Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, this is a living arts and crafts museum where you can also see artisans and craftsmen at work.

Highlights
 • Madras Crocodile Bank  
 • Five monolithic stone chariots 
 • Shore temple and Cave temples 
 • Sculpture of 'The Descent of the Ganges' 
 • Living museum of Dakshinachitra

Private Day Tour To Mahabalipuram From Chennai

Discover the timeless charm of Mahabalipuram on a unique tuk-tuk tour that showcases the town's rich history and coastal beauty. Experience the UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas while your knowledgeable local driver-guide shares fascinating insights about the Pallava dynasty and the artistry of ancient rock-cut temples. Enjoy the freedom to stop for photos and short walks, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and culture of this historic seaside town.

- meeting point pickup and drop-off for an effortless adventure
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage monuments in a traditional tuk-tuk
- Enjoy insightful commentary from an experienced local driver-guide
- Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, with a flexible 2–3 hour duration

Mahabalipuram Heritage Cycle Tour

You will experience the best of Kanchipuram Temple City on this excursion from Chennai. This visit showcases the religion, culture and architecture of 'The City of Thousand Temples'. Travel with your knowledgeable guide to some of the most iconic temples, including Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadaraja Perumal Temple and Kailasanathar Temple and gain a deeper understanding of Hinduism. Our private tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant and a traditional silk weaving demonstration.

Highlights
 • Sri Ekambareswarar Temple  
 • Kailasanathar Temple 
 • Varadaraja Perumal Temple 
 • Buffet Lunch at a Local Restaurant 
 • Traditional silk-weaving demonstration

Hindu Temples in Kanchipuram - A Full Day Private Tour

Visit Kanchipuram City, a place of religious importance with several Hindu temples depicting the Hindu culture and tradition. Following explore the City of Mahabalipuram, known for its outstanding historic buildings and an incredible architectural rock carved sanctuaries. Visit the grand temples and shrines that adorn the city. This tour will take you to various stone-cut temples. 
NOTE: (Expect More People on Ground / Monuments / Public Places During the Tour). You will have Private tour Guide during the Sightseeing Tour.

Highlights
 • Temples of Kanchipuram - Kailasantha, Ekambareshwara, and Vaikuntaperumal
 • UNESCO World Heritage Site - Temples and Shrines of Mahabalipuram

Full Day Tour to Kanchipuram and UNESCO's Mahabalipuram with Private Transfer

Explore the traditional side of Chennai's rich culture on this half-day tour. Start the tour with a visit to the Kalakshetra Foundation. Walk through the sprawling grounds of their campus and get an insight into the history of the traditional art and dance forms of India's southern state of Tamil Nadu. Next visit the beautiful Kapaleeswarar Temple that is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Spend some time in the boutiques of Chennai looking at the colorful silk sarees and artifacts on display.

Highlights
 • Kalakshetra 
 • Kapaleeshwarar temple 
 • Silk sarees and artifacts

Cultural visit of Chennai

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

Day Trip To Tiruvannamalai From Chennai With Lunch

The Parthasarathy Temple is an 8th-century Hindu Vaishnavite temple dedicated to the Lord Vishnu, located at Thiruvallikeni, Chennai, India

- Temple has excellent architecture, fine sculptures, several cultural practices. 
- One can understand the culture of people by going around the temple.
- Shopping around the temple


Experiencing Culture of Thiruvallikeni in Chennai

- Curated by local person who is familiar with local culture and shopping choices
- Ensuring comfort as far as possible for the traveller while exploring local places. 

International Chess Olympiad is hosted in Chennai between July 28th and August 10th with 2000 players from 150 countries. Chennai is apt to host Olympiad as Chennai boasts of having Grand Masters and the popular Viswanathan Anand grew up in Chennai. 

Scottish Connection Trip In Chennai

Explore the traditional side of Chennai's rich culture on this half-day tour. Start the tour with a visit to the Kalakshetra Foundation. Walk through the sprawling grounds of their campus and get an insight into the history of the traditional art and dance forms of India's southern state of Tamil Nadu. Next visit the beautiful Kapaleeswarar Temple that is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Spend some time in the boutiques of Chennai looking at the colorful silk sarees and artifacts on display. End your tour with a South Indian lunch.

Highlights
 • Kalakshetra 
 • Kapaleeshwarar temple 
 • Silk sarees and artifacts 
 • South Indian lunch

Cultural visit of Chennai with South Indian lunch

An exclusive tour for all the romantics of the world! Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most romantic places in the city. You will feel spellbound in a charming atmosphere. What is considered as one of the best places to have a date in the city? Where can you make lovely photos? You will be surprised how many historical love stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, parks of the city. From heartbreaking and tragic, to the hilarious or spicy ones. In search of couple paradise? East Coast Road happens to be one of the most visited and popular roads in India. What is more to know? This road, between Thiruvanmiyur and Mahabalipuram, is one of the famous couple places in Chennai. Need a romantic getaway spot? This road is among the most romantic places in Chennai for couples to enjoy the best of all the worlds. This tour is especially recommended in the Saint Valentine period! 


 Romantic tour in Chennai

Chennai is a culturally rich city located in the Tamil Nadu region of Southeast India. On this private day tour, you will visit several religious sites including the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, colorfully adorned with carved painted gods and one of the most famous landmarks of Chennai. You will also visit the 17th-century St. Mary's Anglican church, the ornate Roman-Catholic San Thome Church, and the architecturally-magnificent and expansive Ripon Building. The tour also gives you a chance to see Marina Beach, one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in India.

Highlights
 • Government Museum 
 • Fort St George and St Mary's Church 
 • San Thome Basilica 
 • Kapaleeshwar Temple  
 • Marina Beach

Culturally Rich Chennai - a Private Day Tour

Take a private tour of the spectacular temple city of Kanchipuram (Kancheepuram) which reflects the glorious traditions of South India temples with their noted architecture. Kanchipuram was once famous for its thousand temples. Today, approximately 100 temples exist. Kanchipuram also has some notable churches and mosques. Apart from its temples, this small town is known for its thriving handloom industry. Woven from pure mulberry silk, the dazzling colored sarees are embellished with fine gold thread (zari) and are available in a wide variety.

Highlights
 • Sri Ekambareswarar Temple 
 • Kailasanathar Temple 
 • Varadaraja Perumal Temple 
 • Silk weaving demonstration

Temples and Silk Sarees: a Full Day Tour of Kanchipuram

Discover Chennai's rich heritage starting from the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, renowned for its stunning Dravidian architecture. Visit the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, built over St. Thomas's tomb, and learn about its historical importance. Climb the Chennai Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the city and the Bay of Bengal. Pay tribute at the Mahatma Gandhi Statue and explore the Vivekananda House, celebrating the spiritual legacy of Swami Vivekananda. Wind down at Marina Beach, where you can relax by the sea and soak up the lively atmosphere, all while a knowledgeable local guide shares captivating stories and insights about Chennai's cultural richness.

- Visit the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple and its stunning architecture
- Explore Santhome Cathedral Basilica and its historical significance
- Enjoy panoramic views from the Chennai Lighthouse
- Relax at Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world

Explore Chennai City Guided Walking Tour on Foot with a local

Together with the professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. You will have a chance to explore the city, while hearing fascinating facts and legends. Did you know that Chennai is popular for IIT and for being an IT and industrial hub? The city is also renowned for its passion for music. But, there's more to the city than you think. From its varied culture and tradition, vibrant festivals, dainty delicacies to its quintessential "Chennai Tamil", this city doesn't fail to mesmerize the locals and the outsiders living here. You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings and corners of Chennai. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. Perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most of it! 


 The best of Chennai walking tour

On this day-excursion from Chennai visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mamallapuram. Situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, the site has a fascinating collection of ancient cave and rock temples and sculptures dating back to the 7th and 8th century. En route stop at the village complex of Dakshinachitra. Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, this is a living arts and crafts museum where you can also see artisans and craftsmen at work.

Highlights
 • Living museum of Dakshinachitra 
 • Five monolithic stone chariots 
 • Shore temple 
 • Cave temples 
 • Sculpture of 'The Descent of the Ganges'

Full Day Excursion to Dakshinachitra and Mamallapuram from Chennai

Day Trip To Tiruvannamalai From Chennai

Visit Arignar Anna Zoological Park, also known as Vandalur Zoo, one of the largest zoos in South Asia with a total area of 1490 acres located about 20 miles from Chennai city center. The zoo is home to 2,553 species of flora and fauna. It is located in the Vandalur Forest Reserve which gives the animals a natural habitat to live in.

 Highlights
 • Visit to Arignar Zoo, one of the largest zoos in South Asia 
 • 2553 species of flora and fauna 
 • A walk-through aviary 
 • An aquarium

Cultural Tours in Chennai

Mahabalipuram walking tour by tourism ministry approved company

Private Bazaar Trail Walking Tour in George Town

Private Peacock Trail Walking Tour in Mylapore

Discover Georgetown: Guided Bazaar Walk Through Vibrant Markets

Mahabalipuram Slow Travel Cultural Tour

Chennai city sightseeing by Private Vehicle

Village Bicycle Day Tour in Mahabalipuram

Follow in the footsteps of St Thomas - a Private Pilgrimage Tour in Chennai

British Architecture Walk in Chennai

Kalakshetra, Theosophical Society & Elliots Beach - Chennai

A Heritage Walk thro Temples, Church & Market in Mylapur, Chennai

Temple, Breakfast and Dance: Discover the Culture of Chennai

Private Day Tour To Sripuram Golden Temple From Chennai

High Hindu Temples in Kanchipuram

British Architecture Walk in Chennai with Lunch

Chennai Tour to Sacred Hills and Eco Trails

Private Day Tour To Mahabalipuram From Chennai

Mahabalipuram Heritage Cycle Tour

Hindu Temples in Kanchipuram - A Full Day Private Tour

Full Day Tour to Kanchipuram and UNESCO's Mahabalipuram with Private Transfer

Kalakshetra, Theosophical Society & Elliots Beach - Chennai

Cultural visit of Chennai

Day Trip To Tiruvannamalai From Chennai With Lunch

Experiencing Culture of Thiruvallikeni in Chennai

Scottish Connection Trip In Chennai

Cultural visit of Chennai with South Indian lunch

Romantic tour in Chennai

Culturally Rich Chennai - a Private Day Tour

Temples and Silk Sarees: a Full Day Tour of Kanchipuram

Explore Chennai City Guided Walking Tour on Foot with a local

The best of Chennai walking tour

Full Day Excursion to Dakshinachitra and Mamallapuram from Chennai

Day Trip To Tiruvannamalai From Chennai

Private Day Tour Of Arignar Anna Zoological Park From Chennai