Cholamandal Artists Village is a vibrant hub of contemporary Indian art just outside Chennai, making it a perfect spot to explore on a guided tour. What sets these tours apart is their mix of traditional craftsmanship, modern creativity, and scenic coastal experiences. We especially like how some options include visits to historic temples and beaches, giving a well-rounded Indian day trip. For example, the Exclusive Day Tour from Pondicherry to Discover Chennai combines Cholamandal’s art scene with the iconic Mahabalipuram temples and Marina Beach, giving travelers a taste of history, art, and urban life all in one day.
If you’re after a more personalized experience, the From Chennai: Private same day tour to Mahabalipuram offers an intimate look at art villages and ancient temples, with a relaxed pace perfect for those who want to explore without rushing. And for those who prefer a mix of history, nature, and wildlife, the Private Day Tour: From Chennai to Mahabalipuram and beyond includes visits to a crocodile sanctuary and a living heritage museum. Below, we’ll break down each tour to help you choose the best fit.
1. Exclusive Day Tour from Pondicherry to Discover Chennai
At number one, this full-day tour takes you from Pondicherry to explore the highlights of Chennai, with an emphasis on Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO-listed temples and Cholamandal Artists Village. It’s a comprehensive experience that includes a guided tour of the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Pancha Rathas, showcasing some of the finest Dravidian-style architecture. This tour is perfect if you want to combine cultural heritage with contemporary art in one seamless day.
What makes this tour stand out is its detailed itinerary and local guides who share rich stories behind Mahabalipuram’s granite monoliths and rock-cut sculptures. You’ll also visit Cholamandal Artists Village, where artisans create and sell modern Indian art, giving insight into the current art scene. The visit to Kapaleeswarar Temple, Santhome Church, and a stroll along Marina Beach provide a well-rounded taste of Chennai’s spiritual and urban life. With a 5/5 rating from two reviews and a price of $111, it offers good value for those seeking an in-depth day trip.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in a full immersion into Chennai’s cultural and artistic offerings, this is a top choice, blending ancient temples with contemporary art in a well-organized 10-hour adventure.
2. From Chennai: Private same day tour to Mahabalipuram
Coming in second, this private guided tour offers a more relaxed, customized experience of Mahabalipuram and the nearby art scene. Starting from Chennai, the tour includes a visit to Freiberg, an artisan hub, where you can witness traditional crafts and interact with local artisans. The highlight is a trip to Dakshina Chitra, an open-air museum showcasing authentic South Indian architecture and craft exhibitions.
The itinerary also features a stop at Kovalam Beach, where you can unwind by the sea before heading back. For $98, this 8-hour tour is a good choice if you prefer a more flexible schedule and want to explore art and coastal relaxation without rushing. The private format means you can tailor the visit to your interests, perhaps spending more time at certain sites or taking leisurely breaks.
This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized attention, enjoy artisan interactions, and want a balanced day of cultural discovery and beach time. The downside? It offers fewer temple visits than other tours but compensates with a focus on artistic crafts and scenic spots.
Bottom line: For those seeking a more intimate, craft-focused experience with time at the beach, this private tour delivers on comfort and customization.
$98 per person
3. Private Day Tour: From Chennai to Mahabalipuram and beyond
At number three, this private tour covers a broader range of sites, perfect for travelers with a keen interest in both heritage and wildlife. The journey starts with a visit to Cholamandal Artists Village, where you can see contemporary art in a lively setting. Next, it visits Dakshina Chitra, a museum showcasing living history of South Indian culture, and the Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple to soak in spiritual ambiance.
What makes this tour unique is its inclusion of the Madras Crocodile Bank, where you learn about reptile conservation and observe a variety of species. The 10-hour trip balances cultural exploration with natural encounters, making it ideal for travelers eager to combine history, art, and wildlife in one day. The $100 price reflects its diverse itinerary, which appeals to those who want a comprehensive experience.
Guests love the mix of cultural sites and wildlife safaris, and the flexibility of a private guide means you’ll get tailored insights. The main drawback is the longer duration, which might be too much for light walkers or those with limited time.
Bottom line: If you want a full-day adventure mixing art, heritage, and wildlife conservation, this tour offers a well-rounded trip with plenty of variety.
$100 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the best tour in Cholamandal Artists Village, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. For a full-day, all-inclusive experience with an emphasis on temples and art, the Exclusive Day Tour from Pondicherry is ideal. If you prefer a more personalized, craft-focused trip with time at the beach, go for the private guided tour from Chennai. For those wanting a broader cultural and natural experience, the Mahabalipuram and beyond** offers a diverse itinerary.
Remember, all tours require prior booking and early planning, especially during peak travel seasons. Check each itinerary for specific inclusions, and think about what kind of experience will give you the most authentic taste of Chennai’s art, history, and seaside charm.
To sum it up, whether you opt for the comprehensive, guided Exclusive Day Tour, the private, artisan-focused Chennai to Mahabalipuram, or the adventure-packed Mahabalipuram and beyond, you’ll find a memorable way to experience the rich tapestry of art, culture, and coastal life in and around Cholamandal Artists Village. Book early to secure your preferred date and enjoy a truly enriching day in Tamil Nadu.