Chennai Day Tour: Pallava Architecture Highlights

Embark on a day tour from Chennai to explore the mesmerizing Pallava architecture of Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. Visit ancient temples, rock-cut structures, and the iconic Shore temple. Fully guided tour with pick-up, private car, lunch, and entrance charges included.

Duration: 12 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Ekambareswarar Temple - We visit Ekambareswarar of Pallava dynasty to appreciate these ancient architectural wonders. These were built in 600 AD and are magnificent specimens of the Pallava style of architecture.
What's Included
  • Local guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
  • Lunch
What's Not Included
  • Drinks
Additional Information

Join this day tour from Chennai to explore the remarkable Pallava architectural sites of Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. Hosted by Five Senses Tours, a company recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the esteemed Indian Association of Tour Operators, this tour promises an enriching experience.
Discover the stunning temples of Ekambareswar…

Location
Ekambareswarar Temple
Ekambaranathar Sannidhi Street
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.9
(253 Ratings)
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Misty
Jul 16, 2025
Informative day tour - Had an informative tour with Kannan. Everything was well paced, lunch was tasty, the temples were stunning and there was an impromptu stop at a silk shop.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Danch8463ia
Jul 8, 2025
Great experience - Mahab and Kanch were great! We had a great time visiting the temples and the sites. The car was clean and arrived promptly in the morning. The guide was very knowledgeable and answered all of questions. Communication was great and we had a fun time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Eileen_e
Jun 15, 2025
Great Day at Mahalibalipurim and Kanchipurim - We had an amazing tour with Jainath at Mahabalipurim and Kanchipurim. Jainath was very patient and kind. He shared his knowledge about all of the sites we visited with gentle expertise. He was thoughtful about providing drinks when we were thirsty, teaching us about the typical Southern Indian lunch, and brought an umbrella to protect me from the strong, hot, sun. We highly recommend taking a tour with Jainath as you will not be disappointed!
Review provided by Viator
I2251femaximel
Mar 30, 2025
Great historical and religious sights - Great day trip from Chennai to see some unique historical religious sites. Mahabalipuram was particularly beautiful with great views of the sea from the lighthouse. Jainath my guide was very informative and friendly, adding an extra cultural stop and helping me with my food and drink preferences. Can recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Manudl1638bw
Mar 24, 2025
Unique insight into local history and temple culture - Thank you Kannan for going above and beyond to make this trip a great memory. I had been to India before but I learnt and understood more in one day than then. The organisation was very flexible, the temple and monuments visits were amazing with unique insight into history, local culture and traditions. It’s a long day but the transport is comfortable, each site is worth it without any bore and hassle free. You have the time to go at your own pace, ask any question and you’re not forced into anything. I will take more tours when the opportunity presents itself. Definitely recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
X6885zijm
Mar 2, 2025
Mahabalipuram & kanchpuram - A great tour, a long day combing 2 places mahabalipuram and kanchipuram but enjoyable. Tour guide very good. Car clean with good ac
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joannaht1093qf
Feb 27, 2025
Marvel at temples and rock creations - A really fabulous first day in Tamil Nadu! It’s a full day with lots to see, amazing sites to soak in and a good division of activities. We had a lovely guide who knew the area and history and was willing to put up with all my questions! Lunch was also a fun experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Culture40420390688
Feb 27, 2025
A Journey Through Ancient Temples & Rich History - Our private tour exploring the temples of Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram was nothing short of extraordinary! Visiting both active temples and UNESCO heritage sites, we were able to experience the architectural marvels and spiritual significance of structures that have stood for over 1,200–1,400 years. What made this tour even more special was our guide’s storytelling—covering not just the glory of these sites but also the lesser-known, complex aspects of their history. Learning how these magnificent Hindu temples were built, the symbolism behind their intricate carvings, and witnessing them in a quiet, peaceful setting made the experience incredibly moving. The tour was well-organized from start to finish. Our guide and driver picked us up early from our hotel, ensuring we had ample time to explore without crowds. After an amazing day of temple visits, we ended at a shop showcasing beautiful stone memorabilia from Mahabalipuram, a perfect way to take home a piece of this historic place. We are truly grateful for this immersive experience—highly recommended for anyone visiting Chennai!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gill
Feb 23, 2025
Well worth taking this tour - We could not have seen so much travelling independently. Fascinating carvings and awe inspiring temple . Our guide was superb friendly and good company.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
789larisa
Feb 22, 2025
Wonderful experience! - The guide, Jaimath, is extremely knowledgeable and shared many stories and interesting facts about all the places. We’ve visited even more places that were mentioned in the planned itinerary, tried traditional local food and filter coffee (which were grate!). Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram are absolutely beautiful cities with many historical places and temples. Enjoyed every minute of the trip!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $102
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).