Exploring the ancient wonders of South India has never been easier. The Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the captivating heritage sites of this coastal town. From the iconic Shore Temple to the intricate rock carvings, this tour promises to transport you back in time, revealing the rich cultural tapestry of the region. With the convenience of an English-speaking guide, delectable local cuisine, and seamless transportation, it’s the perfect opportunity to dive deep into the architectural and historical significance of Mahabalipuram. As you embark on this journey, the anticipation builds, leaving you eager to uncover the true essence of this remarkable destination.
Good To Know
- This Mahabalipuram day tour from Chennai includes guided exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites, local cuisine lunch, and round-trip transportation.
- Highlights of the tour include the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance bas-reliefs.
- Tour is available with pickup from Chennai hotels or the airport, and is not wheelchair accessible.
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian local cuisine options are provided, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the region.
- The tour is priced at $101.41 per person and offers a Lowest Price Guarantee with free cancellation up to 24 hours.
Tour Highlights
Guests on the Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, known for its impressive rock-cut temples, sculptures, and ancient monuments.
They’ll visit the magnificent Shore Temple, one of the oldest stone structures in South India, and marvel at the massive rock carvings at Descent of the Ganges.
The tour includes a stop at the vibrant local market, where visitors can browse handicrafts and sample delicious local cuisine.
With an English-speaking guide and round-trip transportation, this day trip provides a comprehensive introduction to the rich heritage and culture of this historic coastal town.
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Itinerary Overview
The Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai kicks off with a visit to the legendary Shore Temple, one of the oldest stone structures in South India.
Guests will then explore the impressive Pancha Rathas, a set of five monolithic rock-cut temples.
Next, they’ll discover the UNESCO-listed bas-reliefs at Arjuna’s Penance, a massive open-air rock relief sculpture.
After a local cuisine lunch, the tour visits the Descent of the Ganges, a giant open-air rock relief.
Finally, travelers can shop for handcrafted souvenirs at the local markets before returning to Chennai.
The private tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide to provide insights throughout the day.
Accommodation and Pickup
The tour operator arranges pickup from guests’ Chennai hotels or the Chennai Airport, allowing for a seamless start to the day.
Confirmation of the pickup is received at the time of booking. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Most travelers can participate in the tour, which includes round-trip travel time of 2-3 hours.
The private air-conditioned vehicle accommodates 1-2 guests in a sedan or 3-4 guests in a 5-seater vehicle. Bottled water is provided in the car, and the tour includes all applicable taxes and fees.
Cuisine and Dining
As part of the Mahabalipuram Day Tour, guests are treated to a delightful local cuisine lunch. The meal showcases the vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions of the region. Diners can expect a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, each carefully prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Dish | Description |
---|---|
Dosa | A savory crepe-like dish, often served with coconut chutney and sambar |
Biryani | A fragrant rice dish with spices, vegetables, and/or meat |
Idli | Soft, fluffy rice cakes, typically served with chutney and sambar |
Vada | Savory fried lentil fritters |
Rasam | A tangy, spicy soup-like dish |
The included lunch provides a wonderful opportunity for guests to enjoy the local culinary culture and savor the diverse flavors of Mahabalipuram.
Pricing and Inclusions
Although the Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai is priced at $101.41 per person, the rate varies depending on the group size.
The inclusions in this private tour package are:
- Hotel or airport pickup and drop-off
- Entrance fees for monuments
- Private air-conditioned vehicle (sedan for 1-2 guests, 5-seater for 3-4 guests)
- Bottled water in the car
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Parking fees
The exclusions include alcoholic beverages, gratuities, any meals not mentioned, and anything not specified in the inclusions.
This tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
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Accessibility and Restrictions
Pickup and drop-off are provided from Chennai hotels and the airport, though the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the journey. Most travelers can participate, but the following restrictions apply:
Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible |
Infants | Must sit on laps |
Participation | Most travelers can take part |
The round-trip travel time is 2-3 hours, with 60-90 minutes each way. The private air-conditioned vehicle accommodates 1-2 guests in a sedan or 3-4 guests in a 5-seater vehicle. Bottled water is provided in the car, and parking fees are included.
Booking and Cancellation
The tour is operated by Holidays Forever India, with prices starting from $101.41 per person, varying based on group size.
Booking can be done online, with a Lowest Price Guarantee and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option available. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Key booking information includes:
- Confirmation received at booking
- Not wheelchair accessible; infants must sit on laps
- Most travelers can participate
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience
Sum Up
The Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai offers a chance to take in the rich cultural heritage of South India. Visitors can explore the stunning Shore Temple, the remarkable Pancha Rathas, and the intricate rock carvings of Arjuna’s Penance, all while enjoying delicious local cuisine and a guided shopping experience. With free cancellation and an air-conditioned vehicle, this tour provides a memorable and convenient way to discover the wonders of Mahabalipuram.
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