Step into the heart of Chennai’s history with a captivating walk through George Town, the city’s oldest and most vibrant trading district.
Explore the iconic Fort St. George, the first English settlement in India, and marvel at centuries-old temples and a 1712 Armenian church.
Selling everything from spices to antiques, and indulge in delicious local street food.
This tour is a perfect mix of history, culture, and flavors, offering an unforgettable glimpse into Chennai’s rich heritage.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Fort st george
- An overview of the tour will be provided by myself. The entrance of Fort St George - I will be waiting at the entrance of the Fort St George to pick up.
Fort St George
The walk begins at Fort Saint George, the first English fortress in India, built in 1644 by the British East India Company.
Learn about the founding of modern Chennai.
This visit offers insights into how the British established their dominance, the impact of their rule, and the journey toward India's independence.
George town and St. Mary's Church
We’ll explore the historic streets of Georgetown, once called Black Town by the British in the 1600s, as it was primarily home to Indians.
>This area marked the first settlement of Madras and housed the East India Company’s warehouse.
>As trade flourished, it became a hub for construction, development, and port activities.
>We’ll visit St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in India, featuring a rare "Last Supper" painting created by a student of Raphael.
> It has beautiful architecture and historic gravestones.
Armenian street, Flag pole and Wellesley house.
At Fort St. George in Chennai, India, you'll find the iconic 150 ft (50 m) flagpole, one of the tallest in the country, symbolising colonial history and British influence.
>Nearby, Wellesley House showcases historical artifacts and colonial architecture.
>A walk down Armenian Street offers a glimpse into Chennai’s multicultural past, featuring old churches, old temples, vibrant markets, and remnants of the Armenian trading community’s legacy.
Madras High Court
The Madras High Court, established in 1862, is one of the oldest and most prestigious high courts in India. Known for its striking Indo-Saracenic architecture, the court is a blend of Gothic, Islamic, and Hindu design elements. Located in Chennai, it oversees the jurisdiction of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Beyond its legal significance, the court is a historic landmark, symbolizing colonial-era judicial influence and architectural grandeur.
Mint street - Street food and shopping colony [Mint Street: A Blend of History, Culture, and Commerce]
Mint Street, one of Chennai’s oldest and busiest thoroughfares, dates back to the 17th century during the British colonial era. It earned its name from the Madras Mint, established in the 1840s to produce coins for the British East India Company. Over time, it became home to diverse communities such as Marwaris, Gujaratis, Jains, and Telugu-speaking settlers, shaping its rich commercial and cultural fabric.
Today, Mint Street is a lively hub known for its vibrant street food scene, offering everything from South Indian snacks like idiyappam, bajji, and parotta to North Indian treats that reflect its multicultural influences. It’s also a shopper’s paradise, famous for affordable textiles, jewelry, and electronics. Alongside its bustling markets, the street showcases Chennai’s history through colonial-era buildings, old temples, theaters, and educational institutions. A perfect blend of culinary delights, cultural diversity, and commerce, Mint Street remains a vibrant symbol of Chennai’s rich heritage
Here we can take refreshments and end our trip.
End of tour at Mint street - Take aways
As we wrap up our journey,
I hope you’ve enjoyed exploring Chennai’s rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse flavours.
From ancient temples and colonial landmarks to bustling markets and delicious street food, this tour offered a glimpse into the heart of the city. Take home not just souvenirs but also unforgettable memories of Chennai’s heritage, hospitality, and unique charm. Safe travels, and I hope to welcome you back soon!
Ending Point
Mint street
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
-Guide fees
-Assistance for photography
-Itinerary planning
-Recommendations for nearby attractions and dining options
-Information package
-Water and Evening refreshments. [Any one of the savouries or drinks of your choice]
-Public transportation costs
-Pick up and drop , Hotel stay.
I am available for tours and walks across Chennai, South India, and beyond. I typically conduct tours on weekdays and weekends with prior notice.
* Important | Get Ready for an Active Walk: This tour involves extended
walking.
>Photography Etiquette: Always check for photography permissions, especially in religious or sensitive areas.
>Carry Small Cash: Some local vendors and food stalls prefer cash over digital payments.
> For custom itineraries and flexible schedules, please reach out in advance to ensure availability.
> For tours outside Chennai, a transportation fee will be applicable. This includes travel to cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kerala, and other locations in South India.
>Entrance fees, toll fees, parking charges, and food will be covered by the tourists during the tour.
>Chennai is a culturally rich and traditional city, so dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in public places and religious sites.
>When visiting temples or religious sites, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. For women, sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts are ideal, while men can opt for dhotis, kurtas, or long pants.
>Lightweight, breathable cotton clothing is best to deal with Chennai’s tropical climate. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for outdoor activities
>
I am available for tours and walks across Chennai, South India, and beyond. I typically conduct tours on weekdays and weekends with prior notice.
> For custom itineraries and flexible schedules, please reach out in advance to ensure availability.
> For tours outside Chennai, a transportation fee will be applicable. This includes travel to cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kerala, and other locations in South India.
>Entrance fees, toll fees, parking charges, and food will be covered by the tourists during the tour.
>Chennai is a culturally rich and traditional city, so dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in public places and religious sites.
>When visiting temples or religious sites, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. For women, sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts are ideal, while men can opt for dhotis, kurtas, or long pants.
>Lightweight, breathable cotton clothing is best to deal with Chennai’s tropical climate. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for outdoor activities
I’m Logeswaran (also known as Vasanth), and for the past three years, I’ve been conducting cultural tours in Chennai and across South India. I host guests from around the world, offering personalized experiences in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and other parts of South India, including Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kerala.
My most popular tour is the Chennai City Experience, where we explore the origins of this vibrant city and its rich cultural heritage. This tour includes city highlights like ancient temples, bustling bazaars, shopping complexes, historical monuments, museums, art galleries, and beautiful beaches such as Marina, Santhome, Beasant Nagar, and Pazhaverkadu Lake, along with an island trip.
I also conduct heritage walks, sharing the story of Chennai’s transformation from an English settlement to a busy trading hub. As someone passionate about India’s biodiversity, I offer horticultural walks to showcase the region’s amazing plants and greenery.
I love introducing my guests to the flavors of South Indian cuisine and encourage everyone to try the best local dishes for an authentic experience.
Alongside hosting tours, I hold a Bachelor of Engineering degree and pursue this work out of passion. I also create budget-friendly, customized itineraries based on your interests—whether it’s visiting temples, scenic beaches, hill stations, or exploring museums, forts, and monuments.
I look forward to helping you explore the vibrant culture and history of South India!
$50/ per person