Georgetown heritage walking tour of Chennai's first settlement

4.9 (168 reviews) 3 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

168 reviews

4.9

Georgetown walk — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Heritage walk — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Step into the labyrinthine alleys where Chennai began. This isn't a "tour"—it's a portal to the 17th-century East India Company trading post. As a Ministry of Tourism-approved organization and proud IATO member, our Cultural Evangelists reveal the city's hidden power structures.

Trace the legacy of the elite Armenian bankers, whose global financial reach once dictated trade, and the enigmatic Dubashes—the bilingual power brokers who wielded the real influence behind the colonial throne. We navigate the vibrant chaos to uncover the secret architecture and stories of the diverse merchants who built Old Madras.

Winners of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award 2025, we ensure your journey directly supports the local merchants and guides who keep this heritage alive. Experience the grit, the glory, and the hidden history of Chennai.

Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Ports of Call Tours Shore Excursions Excellent Quality

At a glance

Duration: 3 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: 5 Senses Walks Chennai

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Snacks
Included: Tea and coffee: Coffee and/or Tea

Itinerary

Fort St. George

30 min Admission included

We will commence the walk at the first English Fortress built in 1644 by the East India Company. During this visit we will the Museum inside the Fort to understand how the British came to dominate India , their rule and finally how India won its independence. Note the museum will be closed on Fridays.

We will also visit St Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church of India.
St Mary's Church

15 min

Visit the oldest Anglican Church of India to appreciate the "Last Supper".
Stop 3

15 min

Explore the site of a couple of Old Lighthouses which were functional during the times of East India Company.
Stop 4

15 min

This is an iconic art deco building steeped in history. It was the head quarters of Parrys company which was named after Thomas Parry who was welsh and one of the first free merchants of Chennai. The building is named after his John Dare, his business partner
Madras High Court

30 min Admission included

Set up in 1862 by a decree from Queen Victoria, the High court serves the state of Tamil Nadu today. We will narrate the events in 1914 during the Word War I, that led to an attack on this building by German submarines. This is one of the highlights of this walking tour in Chennai.
Armenian Church

30 min Admission included

This Chennai walk takes us past the street where Armenian refugees set up trade for silk, spices & gems 300 years ago. Visit the unique Armenian Church for an immersive experience.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

For 8 AM departure, please meet our guide outside Flower Bazaar police station
For 4PM departure, please meet our guide outside Fort St George

End point

Pickup points

Pick up from all hotels in Chennai

Using your ticket

Please wear clothes that cover the knees and shoulders.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

Private tour without pick up
Private tour with pick up

Pickup included
Group tour- without pick up

Group walk: Walk is not private and other guests may join. Guests needs to arrive at starting point.