Kanchipuram

Tours

Chennai to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram - Depart from Chennai early in the morning to maximize your day. - Enjoy a scenic drive of 75 kilometers to Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram Exploration: - Visit the majestic Kailasanathar Temple, renowned for its exquisite Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings dedicated to Lord Shiva. - Explore the Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas representing the Earth element, known for its spiritual significance and architectural grandeur. - Discover the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, a magnificent shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, admired for its intricate sculptures and towering gopuram. Afternoon: - Embark on a leisurely 65-kilometer journey from Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram. Mahabalipuram Sightseeing: - Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, starting with the iconic Shore Temple. Marvel at the Pallava architecture and panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. - Discover the intricately carved rock-cut temples and colossal statues at the Five Rathas complex, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the Pallava dynasty. - Admire the mesmerizing bas-relief artwork depicting scenes from the Mahabharata at Arjuna's Penance, a masterpiece of ancient Indian art. Evening: - Bid farewell to Mahabalipuram and embark on a delightful journey back to Chennai, cherishing the sweet memories of your day trip. End of Our Services

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. Starting in Chennai, you'll be transported to Mahabalipuram, famous for its splendid 7th and 8th-century art and architecture, especially its stone carvings. You will start your tour by visiting the magnificent 7th-century Shore Temple which is surrounded by lush gardens. In addition, you’ll also visit the 7th-century Five Rathas shrine, also known as Pancha Rathas. After visiting Mahabalipuram you'll stop to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before driving to Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram is known as the "golden city of a thousand temples" and is also one of the 7 sacred cities of India. The city has some grand and majestic buildings that reflect the architectural experiments undertaken by different dynasties ruling the city over the centuries. Visit historic spots like the Kailasanatha Temple, Vaikunda Perumal Temple, Kamaskhi Amman Temple and Ekambareswara Temple. All of these are excellent specimens of the architectural splendor of the medieval period.   

If you are running short on time and want to explore the Kanchipuram city known for Kailasanathar & Ulagalanda Perumal temples, plus Kanchi Kudil house museum in one day sightseeing tour is the best option. Completely guided day trip to Kanchipuram from Chennai for a fascinating experience. We have hand crafted this rich heritage experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, diverse architectural style, tradition and religious legacy. Experience the history that they represent from where they stand with our English speaking guide and delight with amazing glimpses of the vintage Kanchipuram.

PRIVATE 6 DAYS BEST OF TAMIL NADU Mahabalipuram - Kanchipuram – Thiruvannamalai – Trichy – Madurai – Alleppey DAY 1: MAHABALIPURAM – KANCHIPURAM - THIRUVANNAMALAI (200 Km, 5 hrs approx excluding stops) Meet & greet at Mahabalipuram hotel or any preferred location. Drive to Kanchipuram to visit Ekambareswarar, Kailasanathar, and Kamakshi Amman Temples. Explore silk saree markets. Continue to Thiruvannamalai and check into the hotel. Inclusions: Car & Driver DAY 2: THIRUVANNAMALAI Visit Annamalaiyar Temple and Ramana Ashram. Rest of the day at leisure. Inclusions: Car & Driver DAY 3: THIRUVANNAMALAI – TRICHY – TANJORE – MADURAI Early departure to Trichy to visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Proceed to Tanjore for Brihadeeswarar Temple and Thanjavur Maratha Palace. Continue to Madurai and check into the hotel. Inclusions: Car & Driver DAY 4: MADURAI Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, and Gandhi Memorial Museum. Enjoy a rickshaw ride in the old city and participate in the temple night ceremony. Inclusions: Car & Driver DAY 5: MADURAI Leisure day with optional tours available. Rest and relax at the hotel. DAY 6: MADURAI - ALLEPPEY Drive to Alleppey (265 km, 6-7 hrs). Check into the hotel. Inclusions: Transportation End of our services

Private Car and Driver Tour 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Depart from Pondicherry and drive down to Mahabalipuram. 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM: Sightseeing in Mahabalipuram • Explore the iconic Shore Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture. • Visit Arjuna's Penance and marvel at the intricately carved rock-cut sculptures. • Discover the craftsmanship of the Five Rathas, showcasing monolithic rock-cut temples. 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM: Travel to Kanchipuram • Depart from Mahabalipuram and travel to Kanchipuram, approximately a one-hour drive. 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM: Leisure Time in Kanchipuram • Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets and Explore traditional silk weaving units in Kanchipuram, where skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of silk weaving. Witness firsthand craftsmanship involved in every step, from dyeing the silk threads to handloom weaving. 04:00 PM – 06.00 PM: Sightseeing in Kanchipuram • Visit the Vardaraja Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and admire its intricate architecture. • Explore the Kailashanathar Temple, showcasing magnificent Pallava architecture and intricate carvings. • Discover the spiritual ambiance of the Ekambareswar Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams dedicated to Lord Shiva. • Conclude your temple tour with a visit to the Vaikunda Perumal Temple, an ancient Vishnu temple known for its historical significance. 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM: Return Journey to Pondicherry • Depart from Kanchipuram and travel back to Pondicherry, approximately a two-hour drive.

Day Excursion Itinerary from Chennai to Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram **Pickup and Departure:** - **6:00 AM**: Meet and greet our driver at your designated pickup location in Chennai. The driver will explain the itinerary and ensure your comfort throughout the journey. **Journey to Kanchipuram:** - **6:15 AM**: Depart from Chennai to Kanchipuram. - **Distance**: Approximately 75 km - **Travel Time**: About 2 hours **Kanchipuram Tour:** 1. **Ekambareswarar Temple** - 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM One of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its tall gopuram and sprawling complex. 2. **Kailasanathar Temple**: - 9:45 AM - 10:30 AM The oldest temple in Kanchipuram, built in the 8th century. Renowned for its intricate carvings and historical significance. 3. **Kamakshi Amman Temple**: - 10:45 AM - 11:30 AM A major pilgrimage site, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. Known for its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty. 4. **Vaikunta Perumal Temple**: - 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM A Vishnu temple, known for its unique architecture and historical importance. 5. **Silk Weaving Center**: - 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM Visit the famous silk weaving centers of Kanchipuram to witness the creation of exquisite Kanchipuram sarees. **Lunch Break**: - **1:30 PM - 2:30 PM**: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Kanchipuram. (Lunch not included) **Journey to Mahabalipuram:** - **2:30 PM**: Depart from Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram. - **Distance**: Approximately 70 km - **Travel Time**: About 1.5 hours **Mahabalipuram Tour:** 1. **Shore Temple**: - 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM A UNESCO World Heritage site, this temple is a symbol of ancient craftsmanship and stands majestically by the sea. 2. **Arjuna's Penance**: 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM An enormous bas-relief that narrates the story of Arjuna's penance. Known for its detailed carvings and historical significance. 3. **Mahabalipuram Beach**: - 5:45 PM - 6:15 PM A serene beach known for its scenic beauty and calm atmosphere. Perfect for a short stroll and relaxation. 4. **Krishna's Butter Ball**: - 6:30 PM - 6:45 PM A giant natural rock balanced precariously on a hillside. A fascinating natural wonder and a great photo opportunity. 5. **Descent of the Ganges**: - 7:00 PM - 7:15 PM Another impressive bas-relief depicting the descent of the Ganges River to Earth. Known for its artistic excellence. 6. **Cave Temples**: - 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM Explore the rock-cut cave temples, showcasing intricate carvings and ancient architecture. **Drop at Mahabalipuram:** **8:00 PM**: Drop-off at your chosen location in Mahabalipuram. **Total Distance Covered:** - Approximately 220 km **Note**: Timings are approximate and may vary based on traffic conditions and individual preferences.

Discover the enchanting parts of Chennai through Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram. A guide will pick you up in the morning. First off, you'll enter Mahabalipuram, an ancient town that is situated between the Bay of Bengal & Great Salt Sea. Here you will come across a mixture of the seaside as well as rock-cut carvings. Stop by the magnificent heritage at Shore Temple along the coast. Followed by a visit to Pancha Rathas, a monument complex that goes back to the Pallava dynasty's time. After all the sightseeing, you'll head to Kanchipuram. It's a sacred golden town known for its majestic temples, architectural style & also silk sarees. You'll see Lord Shiva's Kailasanathar Temple, a temple wrapped in Dravidian architecture from the 8th century. Next, the guide will take you to many famous temples - Kamaskhi Amman Temple, Vaikunda Perumal Temple, & Ekambareswarar Temple. Throughout different periods many dynasties have taken over this golden city & have preserved its legacy. You will also get time to buy the popular Kanchipuram sarees weaved by regional weavers before the tour ends.

Private Car and Driver Day Excursion Itinerary: Chennai to Kanchipuram and Chennai Sightseeing **8:00 AM – Pick-up and Departure** - **Pick-up Location:** Hotel/Airport in Chennai - **Meet and Greet:** Warm welcome by our professional driver at the hotel lobby or airport arrivals. - **Departure:** Begin the journey to Kanchipuram in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. **9:30 AM – Arrival in Kanchipuram** - **Drive Duration:** Approximately 1.5 hours Kanchipuram known as the city of thousand temples and famous for its silk weaving. **9:45 AM – Visit Ekambareshwarar Temple** - One of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the stunning architecture, ancient mango tree, and the 1000-pillared hall. **11:00 AM – Visit Kamakshi Amman Temple** - A significant Shakti Peetha dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. Admire the beautiful temple structure and participate in the rituals if desired. **12:15 PM – Visit Varadharaja Perumal Temple** - One of the Divya Desams, sacred to Lord Vishnu. Explore the majestic architecture and the immense stone lizard sculptures. **1:30 PM – Lunch Break (Lunch not included)** - Local restaurant serving traditional South Indian cuisine. Try the Kanchipuram Idli and other regional specialties. **2:30 PM – Visit Silk Weaving Center** - Discover the process of weaving the famous Kanchipuram silk sarees. Watch the intricate weaving techniques and shop for authentic silk products. **4:00 PM – Departure to Chennai** - Approximately 1.5 hours. Enjoy the scenic drive back to Chennai. **5:30 PM – Chennai Sightseeing** - **Kapaleeshwarar Temple (Mylapore):** Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its Dravidian architecture. - **Egmore Museum:** Explore one of the oldest and finest museums in India, showcasing a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and more. - **Pattinampakkam Fish Market:** Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local fish market, known for its variety and hustle-bustle. - **Agraharam (Mylapore):** Walk through the traditional Brahmin neighborhood with its well-preserved houses and culture. - **Marina Beach:** Stroll along the longest natural urban beach in India, enjoying the sea breeze and sunset views. - **Santhome Cathedral:** Explore the neo-Gothic style church dedicated to St. Thomas the Apostle, with serene ambiance and historical significance. - **Fort St. George:** Visit the historic fort, home to the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and a museum showcasing colonial history (if time permits). **7:30 PM – Drop-off at Hotel** - **Location:** Your hotel in Chennai - **Conclusion:** Thank you for choosing our services. We hope you had a memorable day! **Notes:** - All timings are approximate and can be adjusted based on traffic conditions and personal preferences. - Entrance fees to temples and other attractions are included. - Ensure to carry comfortable footwear, water, umbrella and any personal essentials.