Mahabalipuram

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

Duration: Full Day Pick-up Locations: Hotel / Chennai Airport Itinerary Overview: **Meet and Greet** - Our friendly and knowledgeable Driver will meet you at your hotel or Chennai Airport. After a warm welcome, you'll be comfortably seated in our air-conditioned vehicle for your journey. **Departure to Mahabalipuram** - Embark on a scenic drive to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning rock-cut temples and sculptures. The journey will take approximately 1.5 hours. **Explore Mahabalipuram** - Visit the iconic Shore Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture ad the Mahabalipuram beach nearby. - Explore the Five Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples each carved from a single stone. - Marvel at Arjuna’s Penance, a massive open-air rock relief depicting scenes from the Mahabharata. **Departure to Pondicherry** - Continue your journey to Pondicherry, the charming coastal town with French colonial architecture. The drive will take approximately 2 hours. And arrive at Auroville. **Auroville** - Auroville, near Pondicherry, is an experimental township founded in 1968 to promote human unity. Inspired by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, it welcomes people from all cultures to live harmoniously. Known for its sustainability and spirituality, Auroville's centerpiece is the Matrimandir, a meditation sanctuary symbolizing peace and collective aspiration. **Explore Pondicherry** - Visit the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community with a tranquil ambiance. - Explore the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a historic Hindu shrine known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. - Discover the beautiful churches of Pondicherry, including the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and the Sacred Heart Basilica, showcasing stunning Gothic and colonial designs. - Take a leisurely walk along Promenade Beach, enjoying the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal. - Discover the beautiful churches of Pondicherry, including the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and the Sacred Heart Basilica, showcasing stunning Gothic and colonial designs. - Take a leisurely walk along Promenade Beach, enjoying the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal. **Departure to Chennai** - After a delightful day of exploration, we will head back to Chennai. The journey will take approximately 3 hours. **Drop-off at Designated Location** - Arrive at your designated location in Chennai. Our representative will ensure you have a smooth drop-off, concluding a memorable day excursion.

Your experience will begin as you are collected from your accommodation after breakfast. Get acquainted with your English-speaking guide and drive to the majestic Golconda Fort, about 11 km from the city. Originally built as a mud fort, the complex has undergone changes through the centuries under the rule of the Bahmani Sultans and the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Learn about the acoustics of the building and the intricate water management system designed here. Your guide will explain the history of the fort and how it shaped the future of Hyderabad and its people. At noon, head to the Qutub Shahi Tombs located close by. Erected in the memory of the rulers of the region, the impressive granite tombs, arches and columns are worth a visit. Stroll through the gardens and visit the exhibition to learn the significance of this landmark. Continue to Hyderabad's Old City, where you will visit the Chowmahalla Palace which was once home to the Nizams, reputed to be one of the richest families of India. As many as 7000 attendants were required to maintain the opulent palace. Some of the noteworthy sections in this Palace include a water fountain, vintage cars, intricate carvings, glass chandeliers and the grand durbar hall. On Fridays, Choumahalla is closed and we will instead visit the spectacularly built Badshahi Ashoorkhana. The final destination is Charminar, a monument that is symbolic of the city of Hyderabad. It was built in 1591 by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shahi, the fifth sultan of the Qutub Shahi dynasty to commemorate the end of a deadly plague attack of the city. Hear of the legends of this place such as the presence of a secret tunnel underneath Charminar which connected to Golconda Fort, created as a means of escape for the royal family at times of distress. At the end of the tour, be dropped back to your hotel. The tour is organised by Five Senses Tours Private Limited which is recognised by the ministry of tourism. The company supports local communities by way of providing livelihood, training and employment of local guides and procurement of local products.

Start your journey in Chennai, the dynamic capital city of Tamil Nadu. Enjoy pickup from Chennai Airport, your hotel, or any railway station Station at 8:00 AM allowing for an early departure to optimize exploration time. As you go, feel Chennai's vibrant streets and learn about South Indian life. Depart and drive along the East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram which offers views of the Bay of Bengal, setting the mood for a rewarding day. Then explore Mahabalipuram, a coastal town known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site classification and ancient rock-cut structures. Visit Lord Shiva's Shore Temple and admire the intricately carved rock-cut sculptures, including Arjuna's Penance and Five Rathas, reflecting Hindu mythology and daily life. Continues your journey to Pondicherry, a lovely coastal town known for its French colonial past and Tamil culture. Stop at the tranquil Aurobindo Ashram, created by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, and learn about integral yoga and meditation. Explore Pondicherry's "White Town," the French Quarter, with colonial architecture and lively eateries. Visit the French Institute, Raj Niwas, and bougainvillea-lined streets. Continue to the Manakula Vinayagar Temple devoted to Lord Ganesha and explore the region's history at the Pondicherry Museum. Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for peace and beauty. Bharathi Park and Paradise Beach offer water sports and peaceful relaxation in nature. After enjoying the stunning surroundings, you will be returned to Chennai ending a day of discovery, history, and visual delights.

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 cultural and architectural wonders of Tamil Nadu with this full-day tour from Chennai, visiting the temple city of Kanchipuram and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram. End your journey with a drop-off in Pondicherry, adding a serene touch to your itinerary. Depart from Chennai early in the morning to make the most of your day. Enjoy a scenic drive of 75 kilometers to Kanchipuram, a city renowned for its magnificent temples and vibrant silk sarees. Visit the Kailasanathar Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas representing the Earth element, revered for its spiritual and architectural significance. Discover the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, an impressive shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, adorned with intricate sculptures and a towering gopuram. After exploring Kanchipuram, embark on a 65-kilometer journey to Mahabalipuram, passing through charming South Indian landscapes. Visit the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable example of Pallava architecture, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. Explore the Five Rathas, a collection of monolithic rock-cut temples showcasing the architectural brilliance of the Pallava dynasty. Admire the incredible bas-relief sculpture at Arjuna's Penance, depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and considered a masterpiece of ancient Indian art. After exploring Mahabalipuram, proceed to Pondicherry (a scenic 2-hour drive, approximately 100 kilometers). Enjoy the coastal route and arrive in Pondicherry, where the tour concludes with a drop-off at your preferred location.

In this Activity you get picked up from your hotel and then we will start our walking tour and your first destination will be group of monuments in Mahabalipuram which is a collection of 7th to 8th-century and on this we will visit Arjuna's penance ( Descend of Ganges ) an open air rock relief and the next will be Krishnas Butter Ball a hanging Ball on a slanting rock and slowly we will hike little bit inside and explore all other caves and mandapas and visit all the little remains of the 7th century civilization like ancient light house which they used it when it was a busy port city and also visit the rock made cart for bed and queen's little swimming pool etc. and next will be visiting the five Ratha's ( Pancha Ratha's ) is an example of monolithic Indian rock cut architecture. the complex was initially carved during the reign of King Narasimha Varman II (630 - 668 CE) and at last we will visit the Great shore Temple, it is one of the oldest structural (versus rock-cut) stone temples of south India and believed as the last pagoda of the 7 seven pagodas and the rest were submerged in the sea as mentioned in several ancient memoirs, and in the middle we provide lunch in a very good restaurant and after finishing the trip we will safely drop you back to your hotel.

Private Same-Day Excursion - Chennai to Mahabalipuram & Chennai Sightseeing 08:00 AM - Departure from Chennai - Begin your journey from Chennai towards Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning rock-cut temples and monuments. 09:30 AM - Arrival in Mahabalipuram - Arrive in Mahabalipuram and start your sightseeing tour. 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM - Shore Temple - Visit the iconic Shore Temple, a magnificent structure overlooking the Bay of Bengal, known for its intricate carvings and historical significance. 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM - Arjuna's Penance - Explore Arjuna's Penance, one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM - Pancha Rathas - Discover the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), a set of monolithic rock temples each carved in the shape of a chariot. 12:30 PM - 01:00 PM - Mahabalipuram Lighthouse & Beach - Visit the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the town and relax at the nearby beach. 01:00 PM - Departure from Mahabalipuram - Begin your return journey to Chennai. 02:30 PM - Arrival in Chennai and Lunch Break - Arrive back in Chennai for a short break and lunch. 03:30 PM - Pick-up from Restaurant/Hotel in Chennai - Start your half-day sightseeing tour in Chennai. 03:45 PM - 04:30 PM - Fort St. George - Visit Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, housing the St. Mary's Church and a museum. 04:45 PM - 05:30 PM - Kapaleeshwarar Temple - Explore the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a classic example of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. 05:45 PM - 06:15 PM - San Thome Basilica - Head to San Thome Basilica, a beautiful whitewashed church built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM - Marina Beach - Stroll along Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world, and enjoy the scenic views and lively atmosphere. 07:30 PM - Drop-off at Hotel - Return to your hotel in Chennai, concluding your same-day excursion. Notes: - Ensure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and exploring. - Carry water, sunscreen, and hats to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. - Timings are approximate and can be adjusted based on your preferences and traffic conditions.

Private Car and Driver tour from Chennai to Mahabalipuram **7:00 AM - Meet and Greet at Your Hotel or Airport in Chennai** - Our professional driver will meet you at your hotel or Airport in Chennai. After a brief introduction, embark on your exciting day trip along the Coromandel Coast. **8:00 AM - Depart for Cholamandal Artists' Village (1-hour drive)** - Begin your journey with a visit to Cholamandal Artists' Village, a thriving artists' community showcasing contemporary Indian art. Explore galleries featuring paintings, sculptures, and crafts. **9:30 AM - Proceed to DakshinaChitra (15-minute drive)** - Visit DakshinaChitra, a heritage museum that provides a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles, art, and architecture of South India. (Note: Closed on Tuesdays) **11:00 AM - Visit Nitya Kalyana Perumal Temple (15-minute drive)** - Explore the Nitya Kalyana Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Admire its Dravidian architecture and serene surroundings. **12:00 PM - Proceed to Crocodile Bank (15-minute drive)** - Head to the Madras Crocodile Bank, a reptile zoo and herpetology research station, home to various species of crocodiles, alligators, and turtles. (Note: Closed on Mondays) **1:00 PM - Lunch Break**(Not Inculded) - Enjoy a delightful lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local cuisine. **2:30 PM - Proceed to Mahabalipuram (15-minute drive)** **2:45 PM - Mahabalipuram Sightseeing** - **Arjuna's Penance**: Admire this massive rock carving, depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and everyday life. - **Shore Temple**: Visit the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, standing by the sea. - **Beach**: Take a leisurely stroll on Mahabalipuram Beach, enjoying the scenic views. - **Krishna's Butter Ball**: Marvel at this giant balancing rock, a gravity-defying wonder. - **Cave Temples**: Explore the intricate rock-cut cave temples, showcasing Pallava architecture. - **Pancha Rathas**: Discover the five monolithic structures, each carved out of a single rock, representing chariots of the Pandavas. **5:00 PM - Depart for Chennai (1.5-hour drive)** - After a day of exploration, relax as we drive back to Chennai. **6:30 PM - Drop-off at Your Hotel or Railway Station in Chennai** - Arrive back in Chennai and be dropped off at your hotel or railway station for your onward journey.

**Pickup: Pondicherry Airport/Hotel** - **Time:** 8:00 AM - **Details:** Our driver will meet you at the designated pickup point, assist with your luggage. **Transfer to Mahabalipuram Sightseeing** ( 100 km, 2 hours approx) 1. **Mamallapuram Shore Temple** The Shore Temple is one of the oldest stone temples in South India, built in the 8th century during the Pallava dynasty. It is renowned for its stunning location by the Bay of Bengal and its Dravidian architectural style. The temple complex consists of three shrines, two dedicated to Shiva and one to Vishnu. 2. **Arjuna's Penance** Also known as Descent of the Ganges, this is a massive open-air rock relief carved on two monolithic rock boulders. It depicts the story of the descent of the sacred river Ganges to earth from the heavens. 3. **Krishna's Butterball** This giant granite boulder, precariously balanced on a small hillside, is a natural marvel with a giant dollop of butter that Krishna would steal as a child. 4. **Cave Temples** Mahabalipuram is home to several rock-cut cave temples, carved into the granite hillocks. Each cave is adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs. 5. **Pancha Rathas** Also known as Five Rathas, these are five monolithic temple structures carved out of a single rock. Each ratha is named after the Pandavas and Draupadi from the Mahabharata. 6. **Mahabalipuram Beach** The serene beach in Mahabalipuram offers a beautiful view of the Bay of Bengal and is a perfect spot to relax and unwind. **Lunch Break** - Local restaurant in Mahabalipuram ( Lunch not included) **Proceed to Cholamandela Arts Village** ( 30 km, 45 mins approx) Established in 1966, Cholamandalam Artists' Village is the largest artists' commune in India. It offers a glimpse into contemporary Indian art and hosts exhibitions, workshops, and studios. **Visit Pattinampakkam Fish Market** ( 20 kms , 30 mins approx) This bustling fish market is one of Chennai's largest and offers a vibrant experience of local life and trade. **Visit Kapaleeswarar Temple** ( 5 kms, 15 mins) This ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva famous for Dravidian architecture with its towering gopuram. **Visit Santhome Church** ( 2 kms, 10 mins approx) Santhome Basilica is a Roman Catholic minor basilica. It is believed to be the final resting place of St. Thomas the Apostle. **Visit Marina Beach** ( 4 kms, 15 mins approx) Marina Beach is the longest natural urban beach in India, stretching along the Bay of Bengal. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a lively atmosphere with various activities. **Drop-off: Designated Location in Chennai (Airport/Hotel)** ( 15 kms, 30 mins) **Note:** Timings are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and other factors.