Temple Trails: A Day Tour of Kanchipuram from Chennai
Why we love it?
The Temple Trails tour offers an immersive day trip from Chennai to the historic city of Kanchipuram, renowned for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage. Lasting 8 hours and 30 minutes, the experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and anyone interested in exploring South India's architectural marvels. Participants can enjoy the convenience of a private air-conditioned vehicle, with options for an English-speaking guide and lunch, providing a personalized experience. Distinctive features of this tour include visits to some of Kanchipuram's most significant temples, showcasing intricate carvings and vibrant rituals, making it a unique opportunity to delve into the region's spiritual and artistic legacy.
Inclusions
- Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.
- English speaking local guide, if option selected.
- Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.
- Lunch, if option selected.
- Bottled water in the car.
- Government Taxes.
Exclusions
- Camera charges at monuments.
- Gratuities and optional activities.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Itinerary
Step 1
7:00 AM Pick up from your hotel for excursion visit to Kanchipuram.
Step 2
Drive to Kanchipuram (2-3 hours): You will be picked up from your hotel in Chennai at 7:00 AM and driven to Kanchipuram, which is located about 70 km from Chennai. The drive will take around 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions. As you drive, you can enjoy the scenic countryside and see local life along the way.
Step 3
Kamakshi Amman Temple (1-2 hours): On arrival in Kanchipuram, you will visit the Kamakshi Amman Temple, one of the three holy places of Sakthi worship in India. This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple has a large gopuram (tower) at the entrance, and inside, you can see a sanctum sanctorum with the idol of the goddess.
Step 4
Ekambareswarar Temple (1-2 hours): Next, you will visit the Ekambareswarar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the five elemental shrines or Pancha Bootha Sthalams, representing the element of Earth. The temple is spread over 25 acres and has a large gopuram at the entrance. Inside, you can see a sanctum sanctorum with the idol of Lord Shiva and many smaller shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses.
Step 5
Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple (1-2 hours): Your next stop will be the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was built in the 8th century AD by the Pallava dynasty and is known for its intricate carvings on the walls and pillars. The temple has a pyramidal structure with a large gopuram at the entrance. Inside, you can see many shrines and sculptures depicting various mythological stories.
Step 6
Kanchipuram Silk Saree Weaving Center (1-2 hours): After exploring the temples, you will visit a traditional silk saree weaving center. Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees, which are renowned for their rich colors and intricate designs. At the weaving center, you can see skilled weavers creating beautiful sarees using traditional techniques. You can also buy silk sarees and other traditional textiles here.
Step 7
Lunch (1 hour): You will then stop for lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional South Indian cuisine.
Shopping (1-2 hours): After lunch, you will have time to explore the local markets and shops. You can buy silk sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, and other souvenirs. Kanchipuram is known for its exquisite silk sarees, so make sure to pick up a few to take back home.
Step 8
Drive back to Chennai (2-3 hours): Finally, you will start the journey back to Chennai. The drive will take around 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions. As you drive, you can relax and reflect on the rich cultural heritage of Kanchipuram.
Drop-off time: 5:00 PM
Please Note
- Stroller or pram accessible
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- Infants must not sit on laps
- Infant seats unavailable
- Please provide up pick up information at least one day before the tour
- Please provide your hotel name and address at the time of booking or at least 3 days prior to the trip date. Our guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby at the scheduled time. Contact details will be shared one day prior to the tour.
Know Before You Go
- Public transportation nearby
Cancellation Policy
Fully refundable until 1 day before start
Non-refundable after 1 day before start
