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A bridge with colorful murals on the walls and a pedestrian walkway. 1
A market stall with colorful flowers and dried plants. 2
Two women standing in front of a display case with a large coin and a plaque. 3
Two men standing in front of a historical monument with a cross and inscriptions. 4
Two people standing in front of a white church with yellow crosses. 5
By 5 Senses Walks Chennai

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
Free cancellation available
Price is $40 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 3h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

  • Step into the labyrinthine alleys where Chennai began. This isn't a “tour”—it's a portal to the 17th-century East India Company trading post. As a Ministry of Tourism-approved organization and proud IATO member, our Cultural Evangelists reveal the city's hidden power structures.

    Trace the legacy of the elite Armenian bankers, whose global financial reach once dictated trade, and the enigmatic Dubashes—the bilingual power brokers who wielded the real influence behind the colonial throne. We navigate the vibrant chaos to uncover the secret architecture and stories of the diverse merchants who built Old Madras.

    Winners of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award 2025, we ensure your journey directly supports the local merchants and guides who keep this heritage alive. Experience the grit, the glory, and the hidden history of Chennai.

Activity location

  • Fort St. George
    • St. George Street,
    • Chennai (Madras), India

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Fort Saint George
    • Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

Check availability

Group tour- without pick up

  • Earn $1.20
  • Activity duration is 3 hours3h
    3h
  • English

Group walk: Walk is not private and other guests may join. Guests needs to arrive at starting point.

Language options: English
Price details
$40.00 x 1 Adult$40.00
Total
Price is $40.00

Private tour without pick up

  • Earn $2.55
  • Activity duration is 3 hours3h
    3h
  • English
Language options: English
Price details
$85.00 x 1 Adult$85.00
Total
Price is $85.00

Private tour with pick up

  • Earn $3.30
  • Activity duration is 3 hours3h
    3h
  • English

Pickup included

Language options: English
Starting time: 3:30PM
Price details
$110.00 x 1 Adult$110.00
Total
Price is $110.00

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Snacks
  • Inclusions
    Coffee and/or Tea

Know before you book

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Fort St. George

  • 30m
  • Admission ticket included
We will commence the walk at the first English Fortress built in 1644 by the East India Company. During this visit we will the Museum inside the Fort to understand how the British came to dominate India , their rule and finally how India won its independence. Note the museum will be closed on Fridays. We will also visit St Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church of India.

St Mary's Church

  • 15m
Visit the oldest Anglican Church of India to appreciate the "Last Supper".

George Town

  • 15m
Explore the site of a couple of Old Lighthouses which were functional during the times of East India Company.

Dare House #234

  • 15m
This is an iconic art deco building steeped in history. It was the head quarters of Parrys company which was named after Thomas Parry who was welsh and one of the first free merchants of Chennai. The building is named after his John Dare, his business partner

Madras High Court

  • 30m
  • Admission ticket included
Set up in 1862 by a decree from Queen Victoria, the High court serves the state of Tamil Nadu today. We will narrate the events in 1914 during the Word War I, that led to an attack on this building by German submarines. This is one of the highlights of this walking tour in Chennai.

Armenian Church

  • 30m
  • Admission ticket included
This Chennai walk takes us past the street where Armenian refugees set up trade for silk, spices & gems 300 years ago. Visit the unique Armenian Church for an immersive experience.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Fort St. George
    • St. George Street,
    • Chennai (Madras), India

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Fort Saint George
    • Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    C1 Flower Bazaar Police Station
    • Rattan Bazaar Road
    • 600003, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

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Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. We offer one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Chennai (Madras) your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food, or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.