Chennai Stopover

Day 1: Chennai

Transfer from Airport to Hotel.

You will arrive at Chennai International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you EXIT the ARRIVALS TERMINAL building after which you would be transferred to your hotel. The East India Company established its presence in southern India on the Bay of Bengal in 1639 with the establishment of Fort St. George. The city of Chennai, formerly known as Madras, grew up around the fort area. It now serves as the capital of Tamil Nadu and is the fourth largest city in India, with over six million inhabitants. It sprawls over a large area yet, in spite of recent industrial growth, seems less congested than other large Indian cities. Its role as a trade centre is furthered by rail, road, and air connections in addition to its seaport. It presents both modern and traditional charm, its many British influences juxtaposed with Tamil-Hindu traditions. Upon arrival at hotel, proceed for check-in.

Half day city tour.

The tour starts from National Art Gallery and Museum; Proceed further to Fort St. George, Presently used as the state secretariat, the St. George Forte is another landmark of Chennai. The British East India Company built it in the year 1653. It has a museum that houses a variety of British and French antiques and other commemorations. Inside the fort is the St. Mary's Church, the first English church Chennai, followed by St. Mary’s Church and San Thome Cathedral, built during the 14th -15th century, is another place worth visiting. After this proceeds to Mylapore temple - Kapaleeswarar Temple, the oldest temple of Chennai, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is a living testimony of the architectural skills of the Dravidian people of the 13th century. However, non-Hindus are not allowed to enter into the main worshiping place of the temple. Then drive past Marina beach. -The Marina beach, stretched over an area of 13 km, is the second longest beach in Asia. It looks like a festive ground on weekend evenings

Day 2: Chennai

Full day excursion tour for Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram.

The coastal temple town of Mahabalipuram is an hour’s drive from Chennai. It has a beautiful beach over 20 km long. An erstwhile port of the Pallava dynasty, its stone carvings, caves and rock cut temples also attract tourists. A crocodile farm, a snake venom extracting centre, schools of art and sculpture and many resorts draw holiday seekers all around the year, especially during the dance festival held in January. Mahabalipuram is famous for being a sculptor’s delight. There are 14 cave temples, nine monolithic rathas, three stone temples and four relief sculptured rock panels. Built in the Dravidian style in the 7th and 8th century, most of them are dedicated to Vishnu or Shiva. Sights include the Shore temple (a World Heritage site), Arjuna’s Penance, the Five Rathas, various mandapams etc. The sculptures here depict deities, animals, Hindu fables and scenes of everyday life. Further proceed to Kanchipuram – - known as one of India's Seven Sacred cities. Kanchipuram was, one of India's seven sacred cities. Kanchipuram was the historical capital of the Pallavas. It was under the Pallavas from 6th to 8th century A.D and later became the citadel of Cholas, Vijayanagar Kings, the Muslim and the British. It has been a centre of Tamil learning, cultural and religious background for centuries.

Day 3: Chennai

Spice Trail

Meet your storyteller, walk into an everyday Indian kitchen, and watch the magic play out. Savor the fragrance of myriad spices, working in harmony to make the meal memorable. And observe them do their bit – some sing, some shout out their presence and others seduce you ever so coyly. Listen to stories of seasonal produce, of handpicking local vegetables, and of the people who grow them. Create a drool-worthy meal, sit back and relish every mouthful. This is one trail where you would love to get your hands dirty. Come prepared to be bowled over by the allure of Indian cuisine.

Transfer from Hotel to Airport.

You will be met by our representative in the hotel lobby, who will transfer you to the Airport to connect your flight for onward destination.

If you find this icon against any service, it means that services of local tourist guide will be provided during those sightseeing trips/ other activities, as mentioned.