2025 Kanchipuram Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Looking for a family-friendly getaway with a dash of royal flair? 🏊‍♂️👑 Kaldan Samudhra Palace in Kanchipuram is your go-to destination! Nestled on the picturesque East Coast Road, this Rajasthani-themed resort is a spectacle of grandeur and meticulous upkeep. 🌴🌞 Here's why it's a crown jewel: - The kiddos will adore the child-friendly swimming pool (just watch your step, it's slippery!). 🏊‍♀️ - Get ready for a daily dose of fun with the resort's engaging activity schedule! 🎭🎉 - Say goodbye to humdrum dining; the culinary experience here is fit for royalty, despite the pesky flies. 🍽️👀 - Stroll along the pristine pathways or take a dip in the sparkling pool – relaxation is just a step away from your room! 🚶‍♂️💦 Embrace the warmth of their innovative welcome and indulge in service that's second to none. 🤗🛎️ Soak in the serenity and make memories at: Kaldan Samudhra Palace, 16/3B1B, East Coast Rd, Devaneri, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India. #Kanchipuram #KanchipuramHotel #KanchipuramTravel

#AbsolutelyFreeTravel On March 20, 2025, I flew to Chennai, the central city of South India (one of the four major cities in India), on a relatively cheap flight from SriLankan Airlines. The purpose was to see the Dravidian-style Hindu temples, a symbol of South India. I left Chennai International Airport and headed to Mahabalipuram, where the temple is a World Heritage Site. I took a suburban train from Tirusulam Station near the airport, got off at Chengalpttu Station, and then took a bus to Mahabalipuram from there, which seemed to save time and money, so I used this method. This method took about four hours (with a waiting time of about one hour) from the airport to Mahabalipuram. Early the next morning on the 21st, I started sightseeing at Shore Temple, a World Heritage Site. This temple was built near the sea in the early 8th century, and its surface has been worn down by the effects of waves and wind over a long period of time. However, the statues of the holy bull Nandi lined up on the outer wall, the stepped towers, and the reliefs of Vishnu and Krishna give the temple a good old, prestigious feel. In Mahabalipuram, we also walked around the Five Rathas, a temple carved from a single granite block and said to be the prototype of Dravidian architecture, the Arjuna's Penance, a relief on a huge rock that tells the story of the goddess Ganga descending to earth, and Krishna's Butterball resting on a slope. However, it was hot. From Mahabalipuram, we took a bus to Tirukkalkundram and visited two Hindu temples, then headed to Kanchipuram, an ancient city and one of the seven holiest sites of Hinduism. It was about a two-hour bus ride. In the evening, we had dosa, curry, mango lassi, etc. at a South Indian restaurant near our hotel, Hotel Jaybala International. The delicious curry was spicy as expected. On the following day, the 22nd, we visited five Hindu temples from early morning until evening. Since many Hindu temples are closed between 12:00 and 16:00, I visited four temples in the morning and visited one temple from 16:00. The most beautiful temple was Kailasanathar Temple, built in the early 8th century, with wonderful lion sculptures. All the temples are characterized by their high Dravidian-style gopurams. However, since I am not a Hindu, I was unfortunately not allowed to enter the main hall. Around 6:00 in the evening, I took a bus to the state capital, Chennai. It was a direct ride, so I arrived at Chennai Central Bus Terminal in two hours. Chennai is quite large. I took the subway and got off at Chennai Central Station. This station was built during the British colonial period and features red neo-Gothic walls and a clock tower, making the exterior very beautiful. For dinner, I had chicken biryani at a restaurant. The next day, the 23rd, I visited two Hindu temples, Kapaleeshwara Temple and Parthasarathy Temple. The tower of Kapaleeshwara Temple is nearly 40m high, and is decorated with many reliefs of Hindu gods. I liked the reliefs of the gods praying. In Chennai, I also visited Madras University and St. Mary's Church, but I still think that the best thing to do when traveling to South India is to immerse yourself in a Dravidian-style temple with its high towers and reliefs of Hindu gods.

That magical underwater world I stepped into? It wasn’t a dream — it was the VGP Marine Kingdom in Chennai, and it was unreal. The moment I entered the underwater tunnel, I was surrounded by life: sharks gliding silently above, schools of vibrant fish weaving around, and stingrays floating like underwater dancers. ✨ Underwater Candlelight Dining Yes — you can actually dine under the sea, surrounded by fish and glowing blue reflections. It’s not just romantic — it’s surreal. A soft-lit table inside the Deep Ocean zone, where the view isn’t a window, but a glass wall of living sea life. 🤿 Scuba Diving The bold can go a step further. Scuba dive inside the aquarium itself — yes, with sharks swimming nearby! It’s completely safe, expertly guided, and unbelievably rare. One of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you’ll talk about forever. VGP Marine Kingdom didn’t just entertain me — it made me pause, observe, and marvel at how much beauty exists beneath the surface. And thanks to Trip.com, discovering this wonder and planning the visit was effortless. This wasn't a theme park. It was an underwater chapter in my travel story — and one I’ll never forget.

This was my first time experience with Taj Myp wife had suggested me to book here and I didn't have a bit of regret at the End of Day. I was surprised to see the way all the arrangements were done. The rooms were spacious with all amenities. They have their own pool, own private beach etc., which is highly impressive. Even the staff were carrying so much till we left.

This is called a kolam, and is a custom commonly seen in South India. It is an art form that is painted by women on the entrances of homes and shops in the morning, to pray for the prosperity of the household. You can see wonderful kolams in Tamil Nadu, India. #travel #artwork

Beautiful temple of history

--- 🏨 InterContinental Hotels Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort 📍 Post Office, 212 East Coast Rd Nemelli Village, Perur, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, 603104, India 🛏️ Imagine stepping into a world where your first greeting is a grand welcome, setting the tone for a stay that's nothing short of spectacular. This gem in Chennai doesn't skimp on making guests feel like royalty from the get-go! 🌅 Nestled by the soothing waves, the resort promises more than just a comfy bed. Picture this: waking up to the serene beach views, strolling on the sand, and then heading back for a feast that tickles your taste buds with local flavors. The rooms? Spacious havens with all the trimmings for a luxe stay. 🍴 Whether you're here to chill or explore, this spot has got you covered. Dive into the cultural vibe or just kick back and enjoy the top-notch amenities. Either way, it's a slice of paradise that's hard to leave! # Chennai # ChennaiHotel # ChennaiTravel

Great architecture and great view.#kanchipuram #tamilnadu #india #temple #lordshiva #architecture

Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple is located in Thiruvidanthai town. The temple is a very famous and holy place among the different Places to visit in Kumbakonam. This town is located in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu. The temple has been considered one of the 108 Divya Desames. These Divya desams are the abodes of Lord Vishnu. The temple was created during the rule of the Pallavas dynasty. Not only this, but you can also see very beautiful architecture and carvings inside the temple. Various types of festivals are also celebrated inside the temple. One of them is Vaikunta Ekadasi. Vaikunta Ekadashi is celebrated during the month of December or January. The devotees of the temple believe that on this day, the gate of heaven is opened. Some of the other famous festivals that it is celebrated in the temple are Ratha Saptami and Brahmotsavam. History of the Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple: King Nandivarman 2 was a very famous king of the Pallavas dynasty. He was a devout of Lord Vishnu. So, he wanted to build a temple in the honor of Lord Vishnu. The construction was started in the 7th century AD. However, later on, different types of dynasties came to rule the place. All of them contributed a lot towards the development of the temple. The Chola dynasty ruled the place between the 9th century and the 13th century AD. The architecture of the Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple: The Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple has very beautiful architecture. The temple has very intricate carvings. Not only this, but you can see a very fine Dravidian style architecture. When you enter the temple, then at the main entrance of the temple, you will see a Gopuram. The Gopuram has different carvings and cultures. The main shrine of the temple is located in the center of the temple. Along with the main shrine, several other shrines are also present. Inside the temple, you will find shrines of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Murugan, and many more. Overall, Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple is a very beautiful temple. The temple has amazing architecture and history. Not only this, but the temple is comprised of various shrines, tanks, Mandapams, and a lot more. So, while going for your Kumbakonam tour, you can plan a tour of this temple also. Distance from nearby city: 40.0 KMs from Chennai Trip duration (including travel in hours): 1 to 2 Hours

Thirubuvanam Sarabeswarar temple is a famous Hindu temple and a very famous visiting place among the different places to visit in Kumbakonam. This temple is located in Thirubuvanam town of Tamil Nadu. This town is located near the Kumbakonam district of Tamilnadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and many tourists come from all over the world to seek blessings in this temple. In this Temple, Lord Shiva is worshiped as Sara Beeswara. The temple is known for its unique representation of Shiva as Sarabeswarar. Thirubuvanam sarabeswarar temple History: King Maravarman Sundara Pandayam built the Thirubuvanam Sarabeswarar temple. The temple was constructed during the 13th century. Not only this, but the grand temple had different types of renovation and reconstruction work during the rule of various dynasties. The various dynasties that helped reconstruct the temple were Pandyas, Vijayanagara, Cholas, and Nayak. The temple is also known for the great Saints that were attached to the temple. One of the famous saints was Sri Sambandar of that time. Mahashivratri is celebrated with great joy in the temple. Not only this, but an annual festival also happens in the temple. In that annual festival, a large number of devotees come to celebrate. The architecture of the temple: The Thirubuvanam Sarabeswarar temple has very beautiful architecture. You will find styles of Pandyas, Nayaks, and Chola dynasty rulers in this temple. When you enter the temple, the temple has a Gopuram or tower. The tower has a Dravidian style of architecture. Not only this, but the whole tower has intricate carvings and sculptures. There is also a Mandapam which is located inside the temple. Various pillars support the famous Mandapam. The pillars of the Mandapam have very beautiful carvings of gods, goddesses, and other mythological creatures. You can also see frescoes on the ceilings of the Mandapam. The frescoes that are present here also depict scenes from Hindu mythology. Some famous scenes present here are the Avatar of Lord Vishnu, the ocean of milk, and many more. The Mandapam has a total of 124 granite pillars. The temple's main entrance is known as Rajagopuram. This main entrance has a height of 40 m. This famous temple has been considered an ancient historical site by the Archaeological Survey of India. Overall, this Thirubuvanam Sarabeswarar temple is a famous pilgrimage site among Hindus. Not only this but this temple is considered one of the holiest temples among the different temples that are present in South India. You can see the amazing architecture and design inside the temple. The scenery surrounding the temple is also really amazing. So, if you are going for your Kumbakonam tour package, you can visit this temple.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm welcome and an inviting ambiance. The restaurant's decor is tastefully done, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere that sets the stage for a memorable meal. Now, let's talk about the food. The restaurant's menu offers a diverse selection of dishes that cater tog various tastes. Each dish I tried was a culinary masterpiece. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was top-notch. The service was equally impressive. The restaurant's staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They made great recommendations and ensured that my dining experience was seamless. #food #restaurant #dine

This statue is placed on SouthIndia Tamilnadu state Mahabalipuram this is famous of the great king pallavas castle and different types of stone statues #mahabalipuram #Mamallapuram #chennaitravels #tamilnadu #pallas Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -