Description
Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram Full Day Private Tour from Chennai
Discover the soul of Tamil Nadu on our Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram Private Tour, departing from Chennai. This full-day guided journey takes you through two of South India’s most iconic cultural and spiritual destinations, known for their ancient temples, intricate stone carvings, and centuries-old traditions.Start your day in Kanchipuram, the historic “City of Thousand Temples,” revered for its sacred architecture and renowned silk weaving heritage. Then travel to the coastal marvel of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its rock-cut monuments, Shore Temple, and panoramic seaside landscapes.With comfortable private transportation, expert insights from a local guide, and a flexible itinerary, this tour offers a deep dive into the region’s rich history—ideal for culture lovers, photographers, and curious travelers alike.
Key Highlights
- Convenient pickup from your hotel or airport in Chennai
- Visit the ancient Kailasanathar Temple, known for its detailed stone carvings
- Explore the grand Ekambaranathar Temple, one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram
- Discover the sacred Sri Ulagalanda Perumal and Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temples
- Experience the spiritual beauty of Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
- Drive to the coastal heritage site of Mahabalipuram with a stop for lunch
- Marvel at rock-cut wonders like the Pancha Pandava Cave, Varaha Cave, and Ganesha Ratha
- See the famous Krishna’s Butter Ball, a gravity-defying natural boulder
- Visit the iconic Shore Temple by the Bay of Bengal
- Conclude your journey with a cultural visit to DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum for local arts, crafts, and shopping
- Drop-off at your hotel or airport in Chennai.
Inclusions
- Expert local guide
- Air-conditioned transportation
- An English-speaking driver-guide is available
- Lunch Included
- Entry ticket Included
Exclusions
- Individual expenses
Terms & Conditions
- Tour departure time: The tour begins at 07:00 hrs, with pick-up scheduled 30-60 minutes prior.
- Duration: Approximately 14 hours.
- Children’s policy: 30% discount for children up to 11.99 years of age.
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service (local time); full charge applies after this period.
Tour Schedule
- 7:00 – 8:00 – Pickup from Hotel / Airport
- 10:00 – Kailasanathar Temple
- 10:45 – Ekambaranathar Temple
- 11:30 – Sri Ulagalanda Perumal Devastanam Temple
- 12:15 – Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple
- 13:00 – Arulmigu Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
- 13:30 – Departure from Kanchipuram
- 15:00 – Arriving Mahabalipuram (Lunch Time)
- 15:30 – PanchaPandava Cave
- 16:00 – Varaha Cave
- 16:30 – Ganesha Ratha
- 17:00 – Krishna’s Butter Ball
- 17:45 – Shore Temple, Beach Road
- 18:15 – Departure from Mahabalipuram
- 19:45 – Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum
- 21:00 – Drop off Hotel / Airport
Additional Information
- You will receive confirmation upon booking
- Most travelers are welcome to participate
- Please note that, in respect for tradition, slippers should be removed before entering the temple or church.
Airport transfers
- Chennai airport
Amenities
- Air conditioning
City
- India
Language
- English
Ways to explore
- City tours
- Private tours
Antoine Lefèvre
4I enjoyed the historic richness of the temples, particularly the Kailasanathar and Ekambaranathar. The guide gave great insights and the pace was fine in the morning. However, Mahabalipuram felt a bit rushed. Shore Temple was beautiful but we barely had time to explore the beach or take photos.
Mei Chen
5It was a very well-organized tour. The driver was punctual, and the vehicle was clean and air-conditioned. I enjoyed the variety of temple architecture across both cities. The Dakshina Chitra museum was a beautiful way to end the day. Lunch in Mahabalipuram was tasty and authentic.
Nur Afiqah
4A wonderful journey through Tamil Nadu’s spiritual heart. The temples were majestic, and lunch in Mahabalipuram was satisfying. The highlight for me was Krishna’s Butter Ball! The only hiccup was the tight schedule in the afternoon — a bit more breathing room would make it perfect.
Rui Fonseca
4Excellent itinerary for first-time visitors. I loved how different each temple was. Mahabalipuram’s rock-cut monuments were spectacular. I did feel tired by the end of the day, though — maybe shorten the number of stops or give more rest time. The guide and driver were great!
Priya Nair
5Absolutely loved this cultural journey! Kanchipuram’s temples were awe-inspiring, especially the Kailasanathar Temple. The pace was just right, and the transport was comfortable. I also appreciated the knowledgeable guide who explained each site’s historical background. Mahabalipuram was equally captivating — Krishna’s Butter Ball was a highlight!
Haruki Sato
4This was a very well-organized tour. I particularly enjoyed the quiet beauty of Vaikunta Perumal Temple and the charm of Ganesha Ratha. The schedule was tight, especially later in the day, but I appreciated how much we got to see in just one trip.