Excursion Sights of chennai tour at Chennai

Experience the scenic splendour and historic treasures of Chennai from the comfort of your coach during this relaxing, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Chennai, Marina Beach

Depart the pier for a scenic sightseeing tour of majestic Chennai. Formerly known as 'Madras', Chennai was the site of the first British trading post in South India, and the legacy of the Raj is still visible in the colonial buildings and historic churches that dot the streets of the Old City. Modern Chennai has grown around this colonial core, sprawling along the coastline beside the city's most famous landmark, the approximately eight-mile-long (about 13-mile-long) Marina Beach. A photo stop is made here to marvel at the spectacular coastal and ocean views.

San Thome Basilica & Cathedral, Mount Road, Egmore Railway Station, Ripon Building

After re-boarding your coach, your next stop is at the nearby San Thome Basilica, said to house the remains of St. Thomas the Apostle. He was believed to have been martyred on what is now known as St. Thomas Mount. Following your guided visit, re-board your coach and take the busy Mount Road for an opportunity to see some of the city's architectural gems. Pass by the Egmore Railway Station, a legacy of the colonial era. Built in Gothic-style architecture with imposing domes and corridors, it is one of the prominent landmarks of the city. The all-white Ripon Building, seat of the Greater Chennai Corporation, is a fine example of Neoclassical architecture.

Chennai Central Railway Station, Parry's Corner, High Court Building, Fort St. George, High Walls

Next, see the iconic, century-old Chennai Central Railway Station, then drive onto Parry's Corner and past the magnificent High Court Building, reputed to be the finest example of Indo-Saracenic architecture in India. Your final stop on the tour is Fort St. George, built by the British as their stronghold. Its approximately 20-foot (about six-metre) walls still stand, looming over the centre of Chennai, and encircling the Tamil Nadu Government Secretariat and Legislative Assembly. Also housed within the walls are India's largest Anglican church, St. Mary's Church, and the Fort St. George Museum. After an exterior photo stop here, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Chennai, San Thome Basilica, High Court, Marina Beach, Railway Stations, Ripon Building, Parry's Corner, High Court Building, Fort St. George

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 164 yards (about 150 metres), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, and one step at the San Thome Basilica; guests with limited mobility may remain seated in the coach during the San Thome Cathedral visit. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, raingear, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts, short skirts, and bare shoulders are not permitted, and trousers should be of minimum mid-calf length. Guests must be at least 16 years old to participate on this tour; minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. We thank you for your understanding. The tour sequence, timings, and itinerary are subject to change without prior notice.