Begin your day early with a private pickup from your hotel or chosen location in Chennai. Drive around 75 km to reach the ancient city of Kanchipuram, known for its temples and silk weaving.
Start with the Kailasanathar Temple, famous for its Dravidian-style architecture and beautiful carvings dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple, representing the Earth element among the five sacred Shiva temples in South India. Then explore the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, a grand shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, admired for its intricate sculptures and tall gateway tower.
After temple visits, enjoy a peaceful 65 km drive to the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with the Shore Temple, offering stunning sea views and showcasing early stone architecture. Next, see the Five Rathas, a set of rock-cut temples carved from single stones, each in a unique style. Visit Arjuna’s Penance, a large rock carving filled with detailed scenes from Hindu mythology.
In the evening, drive back to Chennai with wonderful memories of Tamil Nadu’s culture and heritage.