hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Chennai for around — hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.

Tours & Experiences in Chennai

30 experiences available — book through our trusted partners

Private Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram Day Trip from Chennai
Private Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram Day Trip from Chennai
★★★★★ 5.0 (37 reviews) ⏱️ 12.0h
You can easily spend a full day exploring Kanchipuram and Mamallapuram's marvellous temples, caves and rock carvings. Most were carved from the rock during the 7th-century reign of Pallava king Narasimhavarman I, whose nickname Mamalla (Great Wrestler) gave the town its name. Official Archaeological Survey of India guides can be hired at sites.
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Shopping and Bazaar trail in Chennai
Shopping and Bazaar trail in Chennai
★★★★★ 5.0 (24 reviews) ⏱️ 7.0h
Shopping in Chennai is a great way to imbibe the rich culture of this ancient city. On this Shopping in Chennai Tour you will get to visit a wholesale market for fruits, flowers and vegetables, a market dedicated to leather, antique and junk bazaar, Burma bazaar flea market, a fish market and an art and crafts shop.
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Private 3-Day Taj Mahal Shore Excursion with Flights & Hotels
Private 3-Day Taj Mahal Shore Excursion with Flights & Hotels
★★★★★ 5.0 (21 reviews) ⏱️ 72.0h
Turn your cruise call in India into an unforgettable private journey to the Taj Mahal. Designed especially for cruise travelers, this carefully coordinated 3-day shore excursion includes cruise-port transfers, return domestic flights, two nights’ hotel accommodation, a private air-conditioned vehicle, an expert local guide and entrance fees. Witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore magnificent Agra Fort and admire the monument again from Mehtab Bagh at sunset. From the moment you leave your cruise port until your return, our team coordinates the important travel arrangements so that you can experience one of the world’s greatest landmarks with comfort, personalized attention and peace of mind. Unlike a large cruise-line coach excursion, this is a completely private experience reserved exclusively for you and your travelling companions. More than a sightseeing tour, this is a carefully planned journey from your cruise ship to one of the world’s most celebrated monuments.
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Chennai, Guided Birding And Birding Photo Trip With Spot Scope, 2 to 3 Hours
Chennai, Guided Birding And Birding Photo Trip With Spot Scope, 2 to 3 Hours
★★★★★ 5.0 (20 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Our Chennai Birding or Birding Photography or Birdwatching trips are popular. Why should you do Birdwatching Trip with KeyTerns? - You will be taken to the best locations to see maximum / rare species - You will get enhanced birdwatching with the experienced Birding Guide and Bird call expert using high end Spotting Scope / Binocular - You will experience the best Birdwatching, and learning several species of birds, their behaviors, sound and life. - You will do some stunning Birding photography - Much more Curator profile: Curator is Subbu. He is a passionate Birdwatcher, Bird call specialist, Bird sound recorder and a Researcher providing lectures at various places. He can identify a bird by listening to the sound. He has contributed a lot to the Bird counting and is part of various Birding organizations. He uses high quality Spotting Scope or Binoculars to spot the birds at distance and explains. Last Birding Trip details 2.96 km, 192 minutes, 298 Birds of 48 Species identified.
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Private Food Trail in Sowcarpet Market
Private Food Trail in Sowcarpet Market
★★★★★ 5.0 (18 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Explore the streets of Sowcarpet, one of the oldest markets in Chennai Sample the best local street food from some of the oldest names in this business Listen to stories of local life and customs
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Chola trail to the Golden Triangle of South India from Chennai
Chola trail to the Golden Triangle of South India from Chennai
★★★★★ 5.0 (16 reviews) ⏱️ 48.0h
Chola trail to the Golden Triangle of South India takes us a 1000 years back in time to explore 3 world heritage sites and capitals of the mighty Chola Empire. This is a journey of rediscovery of Cholas, the major maritime power controlling vast parts of South East Asia in the 10-12th centuries. We will relive the glory days of life under the Chola Empire at the world heritage sites of Brihadeswar Temple in Tanjore, Airateswar Temple in Darasuram and the temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram. This tour is organized by Five Senses Tours, a private limited company recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). The tour has been designed to support local livelihoods by way of employment of local guides, and supporting local businesses in line with the mission of the company to ensure travel dollars stay where they are spent.
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Private 6 days Exotic Tamilnadu Tour from Chennai
Private 6 days Exotic Tamilnadu Tour from Chennai
★★★★★ 5.0 (14 reviews) ⏱️ 144.0h
Discover the best of Tamil Nadu on this 6-day private tour. Explore Chennai’s temples, forts, and beaches, visit Kanchipuram’s ancient temples, and feel the spiritual vibes at Thiruvannamalai. Enjoy a boat ride in Chidambaram’s mangrove forest, cycle through the French streets of Pondicherry with cultural activities, and marvel at Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO rock temples. End your journey experiencing local village life and South Indian heritage for a complete cultural experience.
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Traditional South Indian Cooking Class in Chennai with Gayathri
Traditional South Indian Cooking Class in Chennai with Gayathri
★★★★★ 5.0 (14 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Gayathri was raised by her grandma, who was an expert cook - she hailed from Thanjavur, which boasts of a rich and unique food culture! It is from her grandmother that Gayathri learned to cook. Discover the flavors of South India with Gayathri as you prepare traditional vegetarian dishes passed down through generations. Cook using authentic stone and clay cookware, then share a delicious homemade meal while learning about Tamil culture and family traditions. • Experience everyday life in Chennai through food as you cook alongside Gayathri in her family home • Choose between a traditional South Indian meal or classic breakfast favorites like dosa and medu vada • Enjoy your creations together in a warm and welcoming setting • 100% private activity
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2-Day Tour to Taj Mahal and Agra from Chennai with Both Side Commercial Flights
2-Day Tour to Taj Mahal and Agra from Chennai with Both Side Commercial Flights
★★★★★ 5.0 (13 reviews) ⏱️ 48.0h
5am Pickup from Hotel or anywhere in Chennai and drop-off Chennai Airport and Flight to Delhi. Arrival in Delhi Airport and 3 hours drive to Agra by expressway. First day visit Mehtab Bagh and second day visit Taj Mahal and after Taj Mahal take a Lunch break. Second we visit Agra Fort and some shopping in Agra. After Agra Sightseeing drive back to Delhi and drop at Delhi Airport flight to Chennai. Arrive in Chennai airport and drop at your Hotel or anywhere in Chennai.
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Chennai Private Tour with Female Guide
Chennai Private Tour with Female Guide
★★★★★ 5.0 (13 reviews) ⏱️ 6.0h
What sets my Chennai tours apart is the personal touch and insider knowledge I bring as a local. I will take you to attractions like Marina Beach, Bessy Beach, food streets, shopping bazaars, antique shopping, and nightlife spots. You can savor mouthwatering street food, discover unique shopping spots, and immerse yourself in the city's lively nightlife. My guided tours offer a truly immersive and personalized adventure. They are ideal for adventure seekers, families with children, and cultural enthusiasts. Book with me to experience Chennai through the eyes of a local expert. Gain insider knowledge, enjoy memorable encounters with local traditions, and embark on an enriching journey that highlights the best of Chennai's culture and charm!
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Private Chennai Airport Transfer: Arrival to Hotel
Private Chennai Airport Transfer: Arrival to Hotel
★★★★★ 5.0 (11 reviews) ⏱️ 0.8h
• Private arrival transfer from the Chennai International Airport to your Chennai hotel. • We can arrange Separate car for each bookings. • No need to wait or Share with others. • Enjoy comfortable, efficient air-conditioned airport transportation from an experienced, friendly driver.  • Avoid the hassle of long airport taxi lines. • Service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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Best of Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram: Private Day Tour
Best of Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram: Private Day Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (11 reviews) ⏱️ 12.0h
Begin your adventure in Kanchipuram, renowned for its ancient temples and vibrant silk weaving tradition. Visit the Kailasanathar Temple, celebrated for its exquisite stone carvings and stunning architectural design, and the Ekambareswarar Temple.While in Kanchipuram, don’t miss the opportunity to shop for the city’s iconic handwoven silk sarees, a testament to its rich textile heritage. After immersing yourself in Kanchipuram's cultural wonders, head to Mahabalipuram, a short drive away along the scenic coastal road. Here, marvel at the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate carvings and breathtaking views of the sea. Explore the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic rock-cut temples designed in the shape of chariots, each showcasing unique architectural styles. Also, be sure to see Arjuna's Penance, one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world, depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology.
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Tamil Nadu to Andaman: A Cultural & Coastal Adventure
Tamil Nadu to Andaman: A Cultural & Coastal Adventure
★★★★★ 5.0 (11 reviews) ⏱️ 264.0h
Your Tamil Nadu and Andaman Islands tour offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and tropical relaxation. Explore ancient temples, historic cities, and vibrant markets in Tamil Nadu, then unwind on the pristine beaches of the Andaman Islands. This curated journey combines history, spirituality, and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience. Book now for the best of South India and island paradise!
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Best of Chennai & Mahabalipuram: Full-Day Private Guided Tour
Best of Chennai & Mahabalipuram: Full-Day Private Guided Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (10 reviews) ⏱️ 9.0h
Morning you will be picked up from your hotel in Chennai.Spend your day exploring Marina Beach,Chennai's cultural hub of Mylapore Kapaleeshwar Temple,St.George fort and the San Thome Basilica, followed by a traditional South Indian lunch in a local restaurant. Then visit Mahaballipuram is about an hour's drive from Chennai on the East Coast Road. It was the second capital and seaport of the Pallava Kings who ruled in the 5th century.you can see the famous Shore Temple, the only surviving temple out of the original seven (the rest have sunk under the sea). The Shore Temple is among the oldest temples of South India and represents the final flowering of Pallava art. Arjuna's Penance, one of the world's biggest bas-reliefs depicts the story of the descent of the River Ganges from Heaven to Earth.
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British Architecture Walk in Chennai by Wonder tours
British Architecture Walk in Chennai by Wonder tours
★★★★★ 5.0 (10 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Chennai, previously known as Madras, was the capital of the Southern British India. Numerous incredible landmarks were worked during the British rule and a few of them keep on overwhelming the horizon of Chennai even today. In this strolling visit, we will visit a portion of the unmistakable milestones of Chennai, which were worked during the British time in an engineering style mixing British as well as Indian components. We will begin at the Central Railway Station and stroll to Ripon Building, Southern Railway Headquarters, Victory Memorial, Fort St George, Naper Bridge and finish at Madras University building.
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French Toast - A Classic Moto Tour To Pondicherry
French Toast - A Classic Moto Tour To Pondicherry
★★★★★ 5.0 (10 reviews) ⏱️ 12.0h
Discover East Coast with the perfect blend of freedom and guidance. Embark on our self-guided city sightseeing tour and experience the joy of exploring at your own pace while benefiting from expert recommendations. Navigate through the liveliest and awe-inspiring spots in from Chennai to Pondicherry with our pre-loaded routes as your trusted guide. Discover hidden gems, trendy local hotspots, and other intriguing destinations while receiving expert suggestions for an unforgettable exploration.
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Private Pondicherry Day Tour from Chennai with Guide & Car
Private Pondicherry Day Tour from Chennai with Guide & Car
★★★★★ 5.0 (8 reviews) ⏱️ 12.0h
Explore Pondicherry, a picturesque seaside town that beautifully blends Franco-Tamil culture. Stroll through its charming streets, admire the unique architecture, and savor the delicious local cuisine. Enjoy the gentle sea breeze and embrace the relaxed pace of life that this enchanting destination offers.
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Chennai Dosa Making Class & Home-Dining Experience with Jyashree
Chennai Dosa Making Class & Home-Dining Experience with Jyashree
★★★★★ 5.0 (8 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Join your host Jyashree for an authentic culinary experience in her kitchen where she will teach you to prepare a variety of rices, a vegetable poriyal (sautéed vegetables with spices) and a rasam (a peppery soup that is an essential element to the South Indian Iyer sapaad) - the important basics of a typical South Indian meal! You can expect the cooking lesson to last about 1-2 hours before you share the meal you helped prepare which will also include additional dishes Jyashree prepared in advance. If you wish to learn how to make dosas, appams or anything else in particular, please let Jyashree know in advance so she can be prepared. Experience a cozy setting as you enjoy authentic South Indian life and cuisine with a welcoming local, and leave with new recipes, a new friend, and lifelong memories!
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Highlights of Chennai: Half-Day Private City Tour
Highlights of Chennai: Half-Day Private City Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (8 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Door-to-Door Comfort: Seamless pickup and drop-off from your hotel. Architectural Wonders: Marvel at centuries-old Dravidian temples and sacred sites. Local Life & Coastal Charm: Stroll through bustling markets and Along India’s famous urban beach. Colonial Legacy: Step back in time at Fort St. George, where Chennai’s modern chapter began.
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Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry trip from Chennai with 01 Night Accommodation
Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry trip from Chennai with 01 Night Accommodation
★★★★★ 5.0 (8 reviews) ⏱️ 48.0h
This tour combines the coastal town of Mahabalipuram makes an ideal day trip from bustling Chennai, but organizing admission fees and transportation to explore independently takes up valuable sightseeing time and Gallic culture and history is alive and well in the old French colony of Pondicherry.
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1-Day Trip to Taj Mahal and Agra from Chennai with Both side Commercial Flight
1-Day Trip to Taj Mahal and Agra from Chennai with Both side Commercial Flight
★★★★★ 5.0 (8 reviews) ⏱️ 18.0h
Pickup at 4am from Hotel or anywhere in Chennai and drop at Chennai Airport Fly to Delhi. Arrive in Delhi Airport and drive to Agra 3 hours by expressway. Reach Agra and visit Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and take a Lunch break. If time permit some shopping in Agra. After Agra Sightseeing drive back to Delhi and drop at Airport Fly to Chennai. Arrive in Chennai airport and drop at your Hotel or anywhere in Chennai
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Learn to cook a South Indian meal in Chennai
Learn to cook a South Indian meal in Chennai
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
This is a cooking tour where you will visit a traditional cook in her home in Chennai to experience authentic south Indian cooking. The lady of the house will explain to you about the south Indian cuisine and its unique ingredients. This will be followed by a cooking demonstration session. Guests will be encouraged to participate in the cooking process as well as guided by our cook.
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Private tour to learn Traditional Indian Art, craft & Cooking
Private tour to learn Traditional Indian Art, craft & Cooking
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
Welcome to an enriching cultural experience! Our Indian Art and Craft Tour in a traditional home offers a unique and hands-on opportunity to delve into the vibrant traditional arts of India, all within a comfortable indoor setting in Chennai. Perfect for cultural enthusiasts, art lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking an authentic and engaging experience. We will learn things like Kolam, garland making, doll making, musical instrument making draping saree or dhoti, making filter coffee and vada.
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Neighborhood Market Tour & South Indian Cooking Class in Chennai
Neighborhood Market Tour & South Indian Cooking Class in Chennai
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
Join a local in Chennai for a 5-hour full culinary experience that includes a market visit, South Indian cooking lesson, and authentic in-home meal. Experience a cozy setting in this local home as you hear about South Indian life over Tamilian, vegetarian cuisine with your host. Leave with new recipes, a new friend, and lifelong memories.
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Private Tour: Pondicherry Day Trip from Chennai
Private Tour: Pondicherry Day Trip from Chennai
★★★★★ 5.0 (6 reviews) ⏱️ 7.0h
Enjoy a serene escape from metropolitan Chennai on this private day trip to Pondicherry. Discover the region’s unique cultural and spiritual heritage with visits to Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the Pondicherry Museum. Your private guide will teach you all about Pondicherry’s French colonial influences, which are still apparent in the region’s people, language, government and cuisine. Then, in Auroville, a fairly new town with a progressive spiritual community, explore inside the unique domed Matrimandir temple, an important place for practitioners of Integral yoga.
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Chennai, Birding with Spotting Scope & Photography 2-3 hours
Chennai, Birding with Spotting Scope & Photography 2-3 hours
★★★★★ 5.0 (6 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Discover Birds by Sound and Sight with Subbu (Subramanian) Sankar, a Cornell trained sound recordist and an expert birdwatcher, bird-call specialist. Sign up for this private tour, suitable for both photographers, beginners and experienced birders. You'll head out to the Pallikaranai marshland or a similar habitat, depending on the season, where you'll learn and observe a variety of birds with a high-end Spotting Scope that offer fantastic opportunities for photography
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Chennai to Taj Mahal and Agra Same Day Tour with Return Flights
Chennai to Taj Mahal and Agra Same Day Tour with Return Flights
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 15.0h
Grab a chance for having a wonderful holiday experience in Agra with our CHENNAI TO TAJ MAHAL AND AGRA SAME DAY TOUR WITH RETURN FLIGHTS. Designed to cater comfort, convenience, happiness and perfection all in one tour, we make all the arrangements from flight tickets to transportation in the city of Agra from Chennai. Check out all about this amazing CHENNAI TO TAJ MAHAL AND AGRA SAME DAY TOUR WITH RETURN FLIGHTS and plan a great gateway along with your family or beloved. Visit Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in a Day Tour Private Tour Guide for an attention and personalized travel experience. Travel in an air conditioned private vehicle Return Flights from Chennai -Delhi -Chennai Skip the lines Pre Purchase of Monuments Tickets
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2 Day Royal Enfield Motorcycle tour from Chennai to Pondicherry & Mahabalipuram
2 Day Royal Enfield Motorcycle tour from Chennai to Pondicherry & Mahabalipuram
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 48.0h
We ride along coast on Royal Enfield Classic Motorcycle to explore World Heritage site of rock cut monuments in Mahabalipuram and French heritage at Pondicherry. An escort rider ensures ease of navigation through the traffic.
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Private Tour to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram with Pick Up
Private Tour to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram with Pick Up
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 12.0h
This tour offers a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and heritage. Travel from Chennai to the ancient temple town of Kanchipuram, known for its beautiful temples and rich silk weaving tradition. Later, explore the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its rock-cut temples and sculptures. Enjoy a comfortable drive, expert guidance, and entry to all major sites included in one enriching experience.
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Private guided tour of Must Visit Places of South India
Private guided tour of Must Visit Places of South India
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 360.0h
In this South India tour over 15 days, guests will experience the unique culture of the 3 South Indian States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. We will explore the architectural marvels built by patron Kings over the last 1000 years. We will also unravel the mysteries behind colourful rituals in magnificent temples. World heritage monuments of Mahabalipuram, Brihadeswar temple as well as Hampi will be the key highlights. The tour also includes a blissful 24 hours on a house boat in Kerala over the backwaters of the Arabian Sea! This tour is organized by Five Senses Tours, a private limited company recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). The tour has been designed to support local livelihoods by way of employment of local guides, and supporting local businesses in line with the mission of the company to ensure travel dollars stay where they are spent.
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When to Visit Chennai

Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes

Winter Season
Dec – Feb
88 estimated passengers across 2 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.

Cruise Lines Visiting Chennai

1 cruise lines. View full breakdown →

Scenic Cruises Cruises (3)

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