Chennai (former Madras) is a welcoming destination for both local and international travelers wishing to discover the wonders of Southern India. Colorful temples, bustling bazaars, amazing street food, and natural marvels are awaiting travelers who join the best Essential Free Tour of Chennai. This is the most efficient and safest way to discover some of the highlights of the city in the shortest amount of time, while walking with a small group of fellow travelers. Along the tour you will stop near the colorful Kapaleeswarar Temple, one of the oldest, most renowned and sacred shrines of Lord Shiva in Chennai. Here you will hear about the rituals performed by pilgrims and the myths surrounding the temple.

Have your camera ready when you approach the impressive white towers of St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica. This Catholic church was erected in honor of the Patron Saint of India — St. Thomas, one of the twelve Apostles, was entrusted with the task of spreading Jesus Christ’s teachings. Nearby you will find one of the most stunning natural places of Chennai, Marina Beach. This is the largest urban beach in India, and the second largest in the world! Travelers could spend hours strolling the golden sand, but there are some landmarks worth a longer stop: the first is the photogenic red and white Lighthouse; the second is the lifelike Statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

Not far from Marina Beach, your group will find Vivekananda House, a 19th-century stately mansion built with the surprising purpose of... storing ice for months! Apart from this, your guide will also offer many useful information about local customs and lifestyle in the city. In particular, no Chennai Free Tour would be complete without trying some local snacks. Paani poori covered in green chutney, a cone of masala sundal from one of the many stalls at the beach, spicy podi dosai made in the spot, bhajji, kulfi ice-cream, a glass of jigarthanda, or vada (deep fried donuts that can be found at every corner in Chennai) are just some of the treats that you can’t miss!