Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram

The temple town of Mahabalipuram, in Tamil Nadu, is famous for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing 7th and 8th century monuments, along with sun-kissed beaches and scenic shorelines.

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Things To See & Do

Krishnas Butterball

Krishnas Butterball

Massive Granite Boulder
The granite boulder weighs about 250 tonnes and is six metres high and five metres wide. It is said to have been in the same place for about 1,200 years.

30 minutes

Suggested Time

Tiger Cave

Tiger Cave

Hindu Temple Complex
A rock-cut Hindu temple complex, Tiger Cave dates back to the 8th century. It got its name from the 11 tiger carvings around the entrance.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Pancha Rathas

Pancha Rathas

Temples Structured Like Chariots
The 8th century monument complex comprises of five temples built like chariots. The rock-cut structures are carved out of pink granite and are named after Draupadi and the Pandavas.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Shore Temple

Shore Temple

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, the Shore Temple dates back to the 8th century. The temple complex was built out of granite during the Pallava dynasty.

2 hours

Suggested Time

India Seashell Museum

India Seashell Museum

Unique Marine Museum
The largest museum of its kind in the country, India Seashell Museum houses over 40,000 specimens of rare and unique seashells, fossils, shark teeth and whale fins.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Crocodile Bank

Crocodile Bank

An Exciting Adventure with Crocodiles
The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology, popularly known as Crocodile Bank, is a renowned reptile conservation center located near Mahabalipuram. Established in 1976, it is home to nearly 2,500 crocodiles, alligators, and other reptiles, making it one of the largest such centers in Asia. The center aims to promote the conservation and research of these fascinating creatures.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Descent of the Ganges

Descent of the Ganges

Unleashing the power of nature
Descent of the Ganges is another magnificent monolithic rock-cut bas-relief situated in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site depicts the celestial event of River Ganges descending to Earth, as narrated in ancient Indian mythology. The intricate carvings on this bas-relief attract history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Arjunas Penance

Arjunas Penance

A Marvel of Indian Rock-cut Architecture
Arjuna's Penance is an astonishing monolithic rock-cut relief situated in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. Spanning nearly 100 feet in length and 45 feet in height, it is one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world, depicting various episodes from the Indian epic, Mahabharata. This architectural marvel attracts history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Varaha Cave Temple

Varaha Cave Temple

An Architectural Gem of the Pallava Dynasty
Varaha Cave Temple, located in Mahabalipuram, is a remarkable example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 7th century and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha (boar) avatar. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, making it an important historical and cultural attraction.

1 hour

Suggested Time

Sadras

Sadras

A Quaint Fishing Village with Historical Significance
Sadras, located approximately 20 kilometers from Mahabalipuram, is a quaint fishing village known for its serene beaches and historical significance. The village was once a Dutch settlement and features the remnants of a Dutch fort that dates back to the 17th century. Sadras offers a unique experience for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist spots.

Half-day

Suggested Time

Mamallapuram Lighthouse

Mamallapuram Lighthouse

A Historic Beacon with Breathtaking Views
Mamallapuram Lighthouse, located in the heart of Mahabalipuram, is a historic lighthouse that offers stunning panoramic views of the town and its surrounding coastline. Built in 1900, the lighthouse is an architectural landmark that attracts tourists looking to enjoy a bird's-eye view of Mahabalipuram and its ancient monuments.

1 hour

Suggested Time

Sculpture Museum

Sculpture Museum

A Treasure Trove of Ancient Indian Art
The Sculpture Museum in Mahabalipuram is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs, showcasing a vast collection of exquisite sculptures and artifacts dating back to the Pallava and Chola dynasties. The museum highlights the rich cultural heritage and artistic skills of ancient India, offering a fascinating insight into the region's past.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Trimurti Cave

Trimurti Cave

An Ancient Rock-cut Shrine Depicting the Hindu Trinity
Trimurti Cave, located in Mahabalipuram, is a fascinating rock-cut shrine that showcases the skill and artistry of the Pallava dynasty. The cave features three shrines dedicated to the Hindu trinity - Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva - and is adorned with intricate carvings that attract history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

1 hour

Suggested Time

Ganesh Ratha Temple

Ganesh Ratha Temple

A Monolithic Wonder Dedicated to Lord Ganesha
Ganesh Ratha Temple, situated in Mahabalipuram, is an exquisite monolithic temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Carved out of a single rock, this temple is a fine example of the Dravidian architectural style prevalent during the Pallava dynasty. The temple's intricate carvings and unique construction make it a popular tourist attraction.

1 hour

Suggested Time

Mahabalipuram Lighthouse

Mahabalipuram Lighthouse

Fully Functional Lighthouse
Right next to India’s oldest lighthouse constructed by Pallava king Mahendra Pallava, stands this modern structure with a circular masonry tower.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Mahabalipuram Beach

Mahabalipuram Beach

Beautiful Golden-Sand Beach
The charming Mahabalipuram Beach is encircled by scenic mountains and attracts a large number of tourists every year. It is the perfect place for lazing around and sunbathing.

2 hours

Suggested Time

Best Time To Visit Mahabalipuram

Perfect winter destination

  • NOV-FEB

    Peak Season

  • MAR-MAY

    Moderate Season

  • JUN-OCT

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant days and cold nights.
  • Things You'll Love:Sightseeing and water sports.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Mamallapuram Dance FestivalDecember/January

PongalJanuary

Book Your Trip to Mahabalipuram

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Travel Options to reach Mahabalipuram

Our Recommendations

Flight to Chennai Airport, then Car to Mahabalipuram

Booking Options Starting From

₹7,464

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Flight to Tiruchirappalli Airport, then Car to Mahabalipuram

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₹12,896

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Stay in Mahabalipuram

Recommended Options

VIEW ALL

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹4,572

EXPLORE
Madras Chronicle Bay Resort & Spa

Madras Chronicle Bay Resort & Spa

East Raja Street

4.3/5

₹4,368

Onwards

MARUTHAM VILLAGE RESORT

MARUTHAM VILLAGE RESORT

Mahabalipuram

4.7/5

₹6,249

Onwards

Hotel Mamalla Heritage

Hotel Mamalla Heritage

Fisherman colony

4.1/5

₹3,100

Onwards

4 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹9,947

EXPLORE
Chariot Beach Resort

Chariot Beach Resort

GKM St

3.6/5

₹8,262

Onwards

MGM Beach Resorts (15Kms before Mahabalipuram)

MGM Beach Resorts (15Kms before Mahabalipuram)

In Chennai

3.9/5

₹14,396

Onwards

Coral Beach Resort

Coral Beach Resort

East Coast Road

3.8/5

₹7,185

Onwards

5 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹17,166

EXPLORE
Welcomhotel by ITC  Hotels, Kences Palm Beach

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Kences Palm Beach

Mahabalipuram

4.2/5

₹12,500

Onwards

Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay

Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay

East Raja Street

4.5/5

₹18,000

Onwards

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa

ECR Kovalam

4.5/5

₹21,000

Onwards

Best Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram


Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a small town popular for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves. It is located on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal in Tamilnadu. The place is renowned for the amazing monuments, temples, and historical places to visit in Mahabalipuram.


Tourist Places in Mahabalipuram

Tiger Cave, India Seashell Museum, Shore Temple, Krishnas Butterball, Pancha Rathas

State

Tamil Nadu

Best Time to Visit in Mahabalipuram

October to February

Things to Do in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, Arjunas Penance, Descent of the Ganges, Varaha Cave Temple, Ganesh Ratha Temple

Places to visit in Mahabalipuram with Family

Trimurti Cave, Sculpture Museum, Crocodile Bank, Sadras, Mamallapuram Lighthouse


Top Places to visit in Mahabalipuram


India Seashell Museum

India Seashell museum houses conchs, seashells, and other natural things obtained from the sea. The beautiful aquarium here holds a variety of fishes, sharks, starfishes, etc.


Five Rathas

One of the incredible historical places to visit in Mahabalipuram, The Five Ratha links back to the era of Epic Mahabharata. The Dravidian architecture and huge elephant structures will take you back to the beautiful bygone era.


Krishna’s Butterball

A huge rock known as Krishna’s butterball is among the top places to visit in Mahabalipuram. The positioning of this rock is surprising and left even the scientist awestruck.


Tiger Caves

Travelers admire this place because of its historical significance and architectural structure. The deity of the shrine in tiger caves is Goddess Durga. There are eleven heads of tigers carved on the walls of caves.


Mahabalipuram Beach

Mahabalipuram beach is located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mahabalipuram. It features many rock-cut sculptures, stunning caves, temples, etc.


Best Time to visit in Mahabalipuram


Summer

Summers begin in March and last till May in Mahabalipuram. During summers the climate is quite hot and temperature ranges between 4 to 21 degrees Celsius.


Monsoon

Monsoon commences in Mahabalipuram in June and lasts till September. These months experience moderate weather here.


Winter

November to February is the winter season and the best time to visit Mahabalipuram. The weather is pleasant, nights are cool and the temperature goes low up to 16 degrees Celsius.


Places to visit in Mahabalipuram with family & friends


Arjuna’s Penance

One of the largest rock-cut reliefs in the world, Arjuna’s Penance is also known as Descent of the Ganges. Its unique structure, carving and sculpting, and 7th-century art are worth watching. It is among the top places to visit in Mahabalipuram in 1 day.


Crocodile Bank

Don’t forget to discover the Crocodile bank, one of the unique places to visit in Mahabalipuram. The conservation center houses a diverse species of Indian and African alligators, crocodiles, and snakes. It is one of the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram in 2 days.


Krishna Cave Temple

This captivating temple is among the top places to visit in Mahabalipuram with family. An open-air relief dedicated to Lord Krishna. Various carvings on the monument describe the story of Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan and playing with milkmaids.


Best Places Mahabalipuram for couples


Covelong Beach

Located on the Bay of Bengal coastline, Covelong beach is a charming retreat for couples. Silver sands, palm trees, crashing waves, and the best of nature make it among the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram for couples where they can spend quality time.


Alamparai Fort

It has striking architecture and the sight from the top of the fort is breathtaking. This fort is a perfect example of ancient architecture.


Mahabalipuram Lighthouse

The circular masonry tower of this lighthouse is constructed of natural stones. Climbing on the stones to reach the top of the lighthouse can be a real treat. From the top, the view is just captivating. It is counted among the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram.


Good Places to visit at Night in Mahabalipuram


Maritime Tales

You can have an exotic drinking experience here on the shores of Mahabalipuram. They serve rare imported spirits including Bourbon, Tennessee, premier beers and wines, etc.


The Wharf 2.0

One of the great places to visit in Mahabalipuram at night. The Wharf 2.0 is an amazing place to sit back and relish your favorite drinks and detectable food with the charming sounds of the waves.


Best places to visit near Mahabalipuram


Mudaliar Kuppam

Mudaliar Kuppam is an emerging backwater destination near Mahabalipuram. Adventure freaks must explore speedboats, motorboats, pedal boats, kayaks, and banana boating here.


Vedanthangal Bird sanctuary

It is one of the oldest water bird sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary is a famous migratory home to over 40000 different bird species from all around the world. Several small lakes here attract the birds offering convenient feeding grounds to them.


Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram or Knachi is an amazing place to visit near Mahabalipuram. It has a rich history and is among the oldest cities in India. The temples here are best known for their grandeur and great architecture.


There are plenty of places to visit in and around Mahabalipuram, that you should not miss out on. If you ever travel to Tamil Nadu, make sure you consider this city of temples as well. You will be thankful for every second that you spend in Mahabalipuram admiring the art, culture, architecture, and beauty of this town.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Mahabalipuram

What are some of the best places to stay in Mahabalipuram?

Mahabalipuram has a large variety of resorts and stays that you can select from ranging from budget to luxurious stays. Some of the most popular places to stay in Mahabalipuram are Welcomhotel Kences Palm Beach, Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort and Chariot Beach Resort.

What are the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram?

The most loved attractions in Mahabalipuram are Krishna’s Butterball, Tiger Cave and Pancha Rathas.

For which type of travelling is Mahabalipuram a perfect destination?

Mahabalipuram is a perfect destination for Heritage themed holidays.