Exploring the rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife of South India is made easy with this comprehensive day tour from Chennai. Visitors will start their journey at the Madras Crocodile Bank, the largest crocodile breeding center in the country, where they’ll witness the conservation efforts and learn about the various species of these prehistoric creatures. After seeing the crocodile’s world, the tour takes them to the UNESCO-listed ancient rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram, showcasing the remarkable Dravidian architectural marvels. With round-trip transportation, a local lunch, and all admission tickets included, this tour offers a seamless experience. What else will this enthralling adventure uncover?
Key Points
- This private day tour from Chennai includes visits to the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and the UNESCO-listed site of Mahabalipuram.
- Admission tickets, lunch, and round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle are provided for a seamless and comfortable experience.
- At the Crocodile Bank, visitors can see a variety of crocodile species and learn about conservation efforts.
- Mahabalipuram offers a chance to explore ancient Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and cultural heritage with insightful commentary from a tour guide.
- The tour is not suitable for all travelers due to accessibility restrictions, as it is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
Overview of the Tour
This full-day private tour from Chennai takes visitors to two renowned attractions – the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and the UNESCO-listed site of Mahabalipuram.
The tour includes admission tickets, lunch, and round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with front-door pickup and drop-off from hotels in Chennai.
At the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, guests will explore the largest crocodile breeding center in India, home to dozens of Indian-bred crocodiles.
The tour then moves on to Mahabalipuram, where travelers can admire the rock-cut Dravidian statues and temples from the 7th century, significant examples of ancient Hindu architecture.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chennai.
Visiting Madras Crocodile Bank
What awaits visitors at the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, the largest crocodile breeding center in India? Guests can observe dozens of Indian-bred crocodiles in their natural habitat.
The center is home to various species, including Saltwater, Mugger, and Siamese crocodiles. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these reptiles.
The guided tour provides an opportunity to see hatchlings, juveniles, and adult crocodiles up close. The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust plays a significant role in breeding and research programs, contributing to the preservation of these fascinating creatures.
Spending two hours at this unique attraction is a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
Exploring Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO Site
After visiting the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, the next stop on the tour is the UNESCO-listed site of Mahabalipuram.
This ancient coastal town is renowned for its remarkable rock-cut Dravidian architecture, including temples, shrines, and towering statues dating back to the 7th century.
Travelers will have the opportunity to explore these impressive structures, which honor various Hindu deities.
The tour guide will provide insightful commentary, sharing the history and significance of the site.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and the harmonious blend of spiritual and artistic elements that have earned Mahabalipuram its UNESCO World Heritage status.
This enriching experience offers a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders.
Included Admission Tickets
The tour package includes admission tickets to both the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and the UNESCO-listed site of Mahabalipuram.
At the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, visitors can explore the largest crocodile breeding center in India, home to dozens of Indian-bred crocodiles. The duration of this segment is approximately 2 hours.
In Mahabalipuram, guests will have the opportunity to marvel at the rock-cut Dravidian statues and temples dating back to the 7th century, significant examples of ancient Hindu architecture. This portion of the tour lasts around 4 hours, and the admission ticket is free.
The comprehensive package ensures a seamless experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy these two captivating destinations.
Provided Transportation and Lunch
The tour package comes with round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey from Chennai to the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Mahabalipuram.
Travelers will enjoy door-to-door pickup and drop-off service from their hotels in Chennai, eliminating the need to worry about navigating the city’s traffic.
Along With the transportation, the tour includes a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, providing an authentic culinary experience.
Bottled water is also provided throughout the day, keeping guests hydrated.
With these convenient inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the cultural and natural wonders of the region without the hassle of logistics.
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Tour Booking Information
Once the tour is booked, travelers receive confirmation at the time of booking.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The key booking information includes:
- Confirmation received at booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Traveler Feedback and Reviews
According to the reviews, travelers have largely positive experiences with this tour.
The overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3 reviews reflects the quality of the experience. Tourists praised the knowledgeable and engaging guide, the comfortable transportation, and the enjoyable lunch.
They appreciated the informative and relaxed pace, which allowed them to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of Mahabalipuram and the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust.
The only minor concern mentioned was the tour’s unsuitability for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Tour Accessibility and Restrictions
This tour may not be suitable for all travelers, as it comes with certain accessibility restrictions.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s also not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
However, the tour operator does offer some flexibility when it comes to cancellations, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The key accessibility restrictions for this tour include:
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for those with serious medical conditions
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, customers can typically customize the tour itinerary. Many tour providers offer the flexibility to adjust the schedule, attractions visited, and duration to better suit individual preferences and interests, within reasonable limits.
Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings?
Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for group bookings. Travelers booking 4 or more tickets can get a 10% discount on the total cost. This makes the tour more affordable for families or friends visiting together.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Lunch?
Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal lunch for this tour. The tour provider offers customized meal options to accommodate dietary requirements and preferences. Simply let them know your preference when booking the tour.
Are Photography Restrictions in Place at the Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at both the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Mahabalipuram sites. However, visitors should check with their tour guide or on-site staff for any specific restrictions or rules regarding photography during the tour.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no formal dress code for the tour, though visitors are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking around outdoor historical sites. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended to stay cool in the warm climate.
Recap
This full-day tour from Chennai offers an engaging blend of wildlife conservation and ancient architecture. Visitors will explore the Madras Crocodile Bank, witnessing diverse crocodile species and conservation efforts, before discovering the UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram. With round-trip transportation, lunch, and admission tickets included, this comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers interested in Indian wildlife and Dravidian history.
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