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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: INR
- Languages: Tamil, English, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam
- Climate: Tropical
- Timezone: Asia/Kolkata
- Population: Approximately 78 million
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is November to February for pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors to Tamil Nadu must have a valid visa for India. Citizens from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union can apply for an e-visa online before arrival. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa on arrival, but this is limited. Visa-free entry is generally not available. Standard requirements include a valid passport, visa application, photographs, and sometimes proof of onward travel and accommodation.
About Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is a vibrant state in southern India known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and diverse landscapes. It offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with bustling cities like Chennai alongside serene hill stations and coastal towns. The state is famous for its Dravidian-style temple architecture, classical music and dance forms, and colorful festivals. Visitors are drawn to Tamil Nadu for its spiritual sites such as the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai and the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The state's natural beauty includes the Nilgiri Hills and the beaches of Mahabalipuram. Tamil Nadu also offers a rich culinary experience with its distinctive South Indian cuisine. The warm hospitality of the locals and the opportunity to explore ancient traditions make Tamil Nadu a compelling destination for cultural travelers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
Top Attractions
1. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai – A stunning example of Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings and vibrant festivals. 2. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur – A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its massive tower and detailed sculptures. 3. Ooty (Udhagamandalam) – A picturesque hill station famous for its tea gardens, botanical gardens, and cool climate. 4. Mahabalipuram – Renowned for its rock-cut temples and shore temples dating back to the Pallava dynasty. 5. Rameswaram – A sacred pilgrimage town with the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple and beautiful beaches.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy temple tours and cultural performances such as Bharatanatyam dance shows. Adventure seekers can explore trekking in the Nilgiri and Western Ghats hills. Boating on Ooty Lake and wildlife safaris in Mudumalai National Park offer recreational options. Participating in local festivals like Pongal provides an immersive cultural experience. Food tours and cooking classes are also popular to explore Tamil cuisine.
Tamil Nadu Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of India
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy temple tours and cultural performances such as Bharatanatyam dance shows. Adventure seekers can explore trekking in the Nilgiri and Western Ghats hills. Boating on Ooty Lake and wildlife safaris in Mudumalai National Park offer recreational options. Participating in local festivals like Pongal provides an immersive cultural experience. Food tours and cooking classes are also popular to explore Tamil cuisine.
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is November to February for pleasant weather. Pack light cotton clothes for the day and a jacket for hill stations. Respect local customs such as removing shoes before entering temples. Stay hydrated and use bottled water. Carry cash as some places may not accept cards. Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Average Tour Price: $95
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $200
443 Available Tour Excursions in Tamil Nadu
This is the ultimate whistle-stop tour of Agra. Travel by train to avoid traffic jams on the road from Delhi to Agra. With all transportation arranged for you as well as meals included, you will have a stress-free day. After pickup from Delhi, you will be taken to Delhi Railway Station and can enjoy a fast train journey. In Agra, you meet your driver and guide who will show you the best part of the city with great Mughal architecture such as the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Baby Taj Mahal, and Agra City.
Price: $10.00
Duration: 10-12 hours
Have you ever wondered why there are so many Gods in India? Or what the stars have to do with your future? As you walk through the Mylapore neighborhood in Chennai, explore fascinating stories hidden from the mundane rituals of daily life in South India - stories of Gods and demons, and stories of ancient customs and symbolism. Mylapore is a bustling neighborhood in the heart of Chennai dated the city by at least 2,000 years and has maintained many traditions and arts that Chennai is so famous for.
Price: $68.00
Duration: 3 hours
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.
Price: $122.55
Duration: 12 hours
Experience this 2-night and 3-day overland adventure that gives you the opportunity to make a pilgrimage to the Taj Mahal, India's most famous architectural wonder. After pick-up from from any of the five cruise ports in India namely Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, Chennai and Mangaluru you’ll fly to Delhi and be driven to the bustling streets of Agra where you’ll see the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset. This guided tour gives you insight into Agra, a city famous for its Unesco World Heritage sites which include the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh Garden. The private tour includes either 5 star and 4 star accommodation (depending on option selected when booking), commercial domestic flights, private car and driver, private local tour guides, breakfast, all entrance fees and bottled water.
Price: $852.00
Duration: 72 hours
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.
Price: $90.00
Duration: 7 hours
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.
Price: $341.34
Duration: 48 hours
For a well-organized 12-hour day trip from Chennai, begin at 7:00 AM with a drive to Pondicherry, which takes approximately 3 hours. Start your visit at the serene Aurobindo Ashram, then explore the historic French Quarter and the Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Following this, take a relaxing stroll along Promenade Beach. Next, proceed to Auroville to experience its innovative architecture and the Matrimandir. After enjoying lunch, drive to Mahabalipuram and tour the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna's Penance, and Krishna’s Butterball. Return to Chennai by 7:00 PM to conclude a memorable and enriching day.
Price: $179.55
Duration: 12 hours
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.
Price: $681.00
Duration: 48 hours
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.
Price: $558.90
Duration: 144 hours
Gayathri was raised by her grandma, who was an expert cook - she hailed from Thanjavur, which boasts of a rich and unique food culture that Thanjavureans are very proud of! It is from her grandmother that Gayathri learned to cook. Gayathri and her family are travel enthusiasts and have enjoyed hosting friends from different parts of the world. And now she is excited to meet travelers and introduce them to South Indian cuisine and culture. Learn to cook one main dish and one side dish in your 1.5-hour, hands-on cooking class in Chennai. For a meal at Gayathri’s home, you can except to try a traditional, vegetarian meal while seated on the floor, eating with your hands from banana leaves. She hails from a Tamil brahmin family and they only cook vegetarian food at home. • Traditional South Indian vegetarian cooking lesson in a local home • Introduction to South Indian cuisine and culture • Learn about medicinal herbs used in a traditional Tamil brahmin kitchen • 100% private activity
Price: $48.00
Duration: 3 hours
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.
Price: $70.41
Duration: 2-3 hours
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
Price: $68.00
Duration: 3 hours
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.
Price: $155.00
Duration: 12-14 hours
Experience the extraordinary union of technology and spirituality at the Isha Yoga Centre, home to the majestic 112-foot Adiyogi statue. The Adiyogi 3D Light Show is an awe-inspiring visual journey that brings the timeless wisdom of yoga to life through a breathtaking symphony of light, sound, and storytelling. What to Expect: Immersive Visuals: A state-of-the-art 3D projection mapping transforms the Adiyogi into a dynamic canvas, narrating profound stories from yogic traditions. Sacred Soundscapes: Enchanting music and chants elevate the experience, creating a deeply meditative atmosphere. Celestial Narratives: The show delves into the life and teachings of Adiyogi, the first yogi, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the origins of yoga.
Price: $47.28
Duration: 3-4 hours
Start your day in Chennai at the Sri Ramakrishna Math on RK Mutt Road, where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere for about 45 minutes. Next, visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple to admire its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant gopuram, spending about an hour there. After that, take a leisurely 45-minute stroll along Marina Beach, savoring local snacks and the sea breeze.Then, head to the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple for another 45 minutes, immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance. Follow this with a visit to Fort St. George, where you can explore the colonial museum for an hour. Afterward, make your way to Vivekananda House, dedicating 45 minutes to learn about the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.Conclude your day at the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful neo-gothic church, spending 45 minutes appreciating its architecture and tranquility.Offering a rich blend of spirituality, culture, and history, making for a memorable day in Chennai.
Price: $71.25
Duration: 6 hours
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.
Price: $122.55
Duration: 12 hours
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.
Price: $94.05
Duration: 9 hours
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.
Price: $46.55
Duration: 3 hours
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2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Tamil Nadu cuisine is characterized by its use of rice, lentils, and spices. Signature dishes include dosa (fermented rice crepes), idli (steamed rice cakes), sambar (lentil stew), and Chettinad chicken, known for its spicy and aromatic flavors. Meals are traditionally served on banana leaves. Popular restaurants include Murugan Idli Shop in Chennai and Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant. Street food like vada and filter coffee are also must-tries.
Getting Around
Tamil Nadu is accessible by air through Chennai International Airport, with good rail and road connectivity to major cities. Local transportation includes buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs. Trains and buses connect tourist spots efficiently. Travel costs are generally affordable, with options ranging from budget to luxury.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is November to February for pleasant weather. Pack light cotton clothes for the day and a jacket for hill stations. Respect local customs such as removing shoes before entering temples. Stay hydrated and use bottled water. Carry cash as some places may not accept cards. Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Culture & Customs
Tamil Nadu has a rich cultural heritage with strong traditions in music, dance, and temple worship. Festivals like Pongal and Diwali are celebrated with great enthusiasm. It is customary to greet elders with respect and remove footwear before entering homes and temples. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
