- Best time
- Nov–Mar
- How long
- 1–2 days
- Stay a night
- ₹1,000–10,000
- Food a day
- ₹350–1,600
- Nearest railhead
- 30 km away
- Nearest airport
- 55 km away
Plan Mahabalipuram in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Mahabalipuram
A UNESCO beach town of 7th-century rock carvings — the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas and Arjuna’s Penance — with surf and seafood nearby.
Things to do in Mahabalipuram
Shore Temple
The Shore Temple is an 8th-century granite temple complex overlooking the Bay of Bengal in Mahabalipuram. Built during the Pallava dynasty, it is one of the oldest structural stone temples in Southern India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pancha Rathas
Five monolithic chariot temples carved from single granite stones during the seventh century. Located in Mahabalipuram, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features structures named after the Pandavas and Draupadi from the Mahabharata.
Tip: Your entry ticket to the monument covers the Pancha Rathas complex as well.
Arjuna’s Penance
Arjuna’s Penance is one of the world’s largest open-air reliefs, carved on two massive monolithic rock boulders in Mahabalipuram. It features intricate sculptures of deities, animals, sages, and figures from Hindu mythology.
Tip: Walk around the nearby cluster of shore temples and other rock-cut monuments while you are in the area.
Krishna’s Butterball
Krishna's Butterball is a gigantic granite boulder balanced mysteriously on a short incline in Mamallapuram. Part of the Group of Monuments built by the Pallava dynasty, this unusual rock is a popular tourist attraction and a protected national monument.
Mahabalipuram Lighthouse
Mahabalipuram Lighthouse is a viewpoint located in the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. It offers a vantage point to see the surrounding ancient monuments and the sea.
Surfing at Kovalam (Covelong)
Kovalam near Mahabalipuram offers beginner surf lessons along the scenic Tamil Nadu coast. It is a popular spot for travellers looking to learn surfing in the gentle waves of the Bay of Bengal.
Tip: Wear comfortable swimwear and carry a change of clothes.
DakshinaChitra
DakshinaChitra is a heritage village museum showcasing authentic historical homes and cultural traditions from across South India. Visitors can walk through traditional architectural styles and explore regional arts and crafts.
Tip: Note that the museum remains closed on Tuesdays, so plan your travel days accordingly.
Where to stay in Mahabalipuram
Othavadai Street
Guesthouses and cafes near the beach.
ECR beach resorts
Pools and private beaches.
What to eat
Seafood shacks
Pick your fish on Othavadai Cross Street.
Filter coffee
At the tiffin places in town.
Good to know
- One ticket covers the Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas — keep it.
- The dance festival runs December–January.
Going to Mahabalipuram? Build the plan, split costs with your group and keep tickets in one place.
Plan this trip