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Activity Chennai, India

Chennai: Private City Tour with Tour Guide and All Entry Fees

5.0 (one review) 5 hours Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Chennai: Private City Tour with Tour Guide and All Entry Fees

About this activity

This half-day tour through Chennai offers a carefully balanced introduction to the city’s spiritual depth, historical evolution, and vibrant coastal life—all within comfortable private vehicle and live tour guide.

The tour begins in the culturally rich neighborhood of Mylapore at the revered Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Here, the striking Dravidian-style gopuram, adorned with colorful depictions of deities, sets the stage for an authentic encounter with Tamil Hindu traditions.

Continue exploring the local markets of Chennai around Mylapore by enjoying a free tuk-tuk auto ride, and capture memorable photos during your visit

A brief visit past Fort St. George introduces you to Chennai’s colonial beginnings, where the British East India Company established its first stronghold in India—marking a turning point in the region’s history.

The tour concludes at the iconic Marina Beach, where the city opens up to the Bay of Bengal and witness the rhythm of one of the world’s longest urban beach.

Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Car Tours Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration
5 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–5
Guide
English
Operated by
MyTourPass DMC

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–9 years) · Adults (10–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Bottled water
  • Included: Entrance fees: Entrance fee
  • Included: Private vehicle, toll and sightseeing
  • Included: Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Included: Live tour guide
  • Included: Free Tuk-Tuk ride with local driver

Not included

  • Not included: Personal expenses and meals

Itinerary

  1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

    one hour

    Immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heart of Chennai with a visit to Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore. This stunning 7th-century Dravidian-style temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a towering, intricately carved gopuram (gateway tower). Witness vibrant rituals, explore the temple’s sacred tanks, and admire detailed sculptures depicting stories from Hindu mythology. A serene yet lively atmosphere, perfect for experiencing local devotion and tradition.

  2. Mylapore

    30 min Admission included

    Explore local markets around the Mylapore by enjoying a free tuk-tuk auto ride, and capture memorable photos during your visit

  3. St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica

    30 min Admission included

    St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, also known as Santhome Basilica, is a major religious and historical landmark in Chennai. It is built over the traditional tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, making it one of the rare churches in the world constructed on an apostle’s burial site.

    Originally established by the Portuguese in 1523 and later rebuilt by the British in 1896, the basilica showcases elegant Neo-Gothic architecture. Its tall white spire, stained-glass windows, and serene interiors make it both visually striking and spiritually uplifting.

    A key highlight of the visit is the underground tomb chapel, where visitors can view the tomb of St. Thomas. There is also a small museum displaying relics and historical artifacts related to the saint and early Christianity in India.

    The basilica is an active place of worship, so visitors are advised to dress modestly and maintain silence.

  4. Fort St. George

    one hour Admission included

    Step back in time as you explore Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Walk through historic colonial buildings, visit St. Mary’s Church—one of the oldest Anglican churches in Asia—and browse rare artifacts at the Fort Museum, including weapons, documents, and portraits from the British era. Learn how this 17th-century fort shaped the city’s colonial past as you soak in fascinating stories and architectural charm.

  5. Marina Beach

    30 min

    Stroll along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world and a beloved landmark of Chennai. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, watch local life unfold with street vendors, families, and cricket games, and take in views of the Bay of Bengal. Visit iconic spots along the promenade, including statues, memorials, and historic buildings. Perfect for a relaxed evening walk, local snacks, and stunning sunrise or sunset views by the ocean.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

  • Collection O 13574 Balaji Dental College
  • Grand Continent T Nagar
  • Hotel Mars Deluxe
  • Collection O 30035 Esthell near Malar Hospital
  • Thiviyam Airport Hotel
  • Hotel Beebiz Guindy
  • First Inn Hotels
  • Bells Grand Inn
  • Capital O 70712 Royal King Residency
  • Saravanas Park
  • Celebrity Hotel- Near US Consulate & Sanakara Nethralaya & Apollo
  • Goroomgo Al Salama Guest House Chennai

and 2,531 more pickup points

We’re happy to offer customized pickup within city limits—just let us know in advance!

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%

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Specialized infant seats are available

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · one review
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Chennai: Private City Tour with Tour Guide and All Entry Fees

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