You’ve probably heard stories and fables about Mahabalipuram in Upanishads and books. Tourists and pilgrims flock to this little hamlet on a spit of land between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake because of its medieval temples and enticing sunsets. These places to visit in Mahabalipuram Tell a story that has been passed down for thousands of years. If you chance to be in Tamil Nadu on vacation, this should surely be on your bucket list. You’ll be grateful for every second you spend enjoying the little Tamilian town’s architecture, art, and culture.
Best Time To Visit Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram, located on the picturesque East Coast Road in the state of Tamil Nadu, is one of the most attractive winter places to visit from October to March. Summers are incredibly hot, and getting about becomes exceedingly tough.
The temperature becomes very humid, and the searing heat may rapidly dehydrate and tire one. During these months, the temperature might range from 22 degrees to 31 degrees.
15 Best Places To Visit Mahabalipuram
There are several tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram that will keep you occupied touring in this temple city. All of these locations are well-known for their famous and magnificent buildings. You should surely include the following tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram on your Tamil Nadu itinerary for a memorable and enjoyable visit.
- India Seashell Museum – Witness The Beautiful Sea Elements
- Shore Temples – Beautifully Located Structures
- Five Rathas – Significant To A Hindu Epic
- Krishna’s Butterball – An Intriguing Structure
- Tiger Caves – Magnet For History Buffs
- Mahabalipuram Beach – Tranquil Atmosphere
- Arjuna’s Penance – Best Tamilian Architecture
- Alamparai Fort – A Significant Historical Site
- Crocodile Bank – The Predators In Their Habitat
- Covelong Beach – A Charming Retreat
- Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple – Rock Cut Relic
- Krishna Cave Temple – Remarkable Wall Carvings
- Ganesh Ratha Temple – Finest Example Of 7th Century Architecture
- Trimurti Cave – The Power Of Three Gods
- Mamallapuram Lighthouse – Exquisite Views
1. India Seashell Museum – Witness The Beautiful Sea Elements
If you are in Mahabalipuram, one of the sites to see in Mahabalipuram Tamil Nadu is the India Seashell Museum. This museum displays seashells, conch, and other natural marine things. It also features a lovely aquarium with a variety of marine animals such as fish, starfish, sharks, and so on. This site would easily take an hour or two to explore. A curator may also show you through the museum and offer you a full explanation.
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm every day
Entrance fee for museum plus aquarium: 130 INR/-
Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104-191/1A2, Kalpakkam Road
2. Shore Temples – Beautifully Located Structures
There is a complex of temples at Mahabalipuram that must be seen. A number of temples exist deep under the waves, and you might opt to cruise the ocean to uncover them. These temples are historically significant to the people who live here. The subterranean temples rise to the surface as the water level falls.
Shore temples are so-called because they are situated in the Bay of Bengal. It dates from the eighth century AD and was built by the Pallava dynasty. These temples are among the most beautiful destinations to visit in Mahabalipuram.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee for Indians: 10 INR/-, children below 15 years: Free
Foreigner entry fee: 340 INR/-
Location: Building complex in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
3. Five Rathas – Significant To A Hindu Epic
Five Rathas is one of those ancient sites that everyone should see while in Mahabalipuram. The five Rathas are associated with the Mahabharata and the five Pandavas, and viewing them is one of the top things to do in Mahabalipuram. If you want to see authentic Dravidian architecture, you should take a walk around these Rathas or chariots. The sight of the massive elephant buildings might transport you to a bygone period. This is a must-see for all architectural enthusiasts.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee for Indians: 10 INR/-
Foreigner entry fee: 250 INR/-
Location: Historical landmark in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
4. Krishna’s Butterball – An Intriguing Structure
A massive boulder a short distance from the Five Rathas draws a large number of people. The rock’s location is rather unusual, and it has caused many scientists to put on their thinking caps. According to mythology, King Narasimhavarman attempted but failed to move this massive rock.
As a result, the villagers believe in and refer to this rock as the Stone of Sky God. A few individuals also associate this boulder with Krishna stealing the butterball from his mother, Yashoda.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee for Indians: 40 INR/-
Foreigner entry fee: 600 INR/-
Location: E Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
5. Tiger Caves – Magnet For History Buffs
People visit this location because of its architectural structure as well as its historical relevance. The construction is similar to a mandap. The goddess Durga is the principal deity of the temple at the Tiger Caves. This location is around 4 kilometers from Mahabalipuram’s main city. On the cave walls are 11 carved tiger heads. As a result, the area is known as Tiger Caves.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104ty!
6. Mahabalipuram Beach – Tranquil Atmosphere
The famed Mahabalipuram Beach, also known as Mamallapuram by locals, is situated on the beaches of the Bay of Bengal and is one of the major tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram. It has several spectacular rock-cut sculptures that will warm your heart! This coastline includes spectacular caverns, gigantic rathas, chariots, and temples that draw hundreds of pilgrims, architectural aficionados, and history buffs every month and leave them beguiled! Apart from viewing the amazing Mahabalipuram temples and caves, this beach is a wonderful spot to unwind and spend quality time with your loved ones.
Location: Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu
Timings: Open 24X7
Entrance fee: Nil
7. Arjuna’s Penance – Best Tamilian Architecture
The Arjuna’s Penance is one of the largest rock-cut reliefs in the whole world and one of the most popular places to visit in Mahabalipuram. Also known as the ‘Descent of the Ganges’ owing to its unique structure that depicts these two eminent and symbolic events in the Hindu mythology, this attraction is a favourite spot of historians, scholars, academics, and tourists who love ancient Tamilian architecture. What makes it one of the greatest temples in India is its 7th century art and the unique form of carving and sculpting that has given it its distinct shape and structure, and also landed it on the list of sites protected by ASI and UNESCO.
Location: Mamallapuram is located in the Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu, India.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entrance fee: 10 INR (Indians) | 250 INR (Foreign Nationals) | 25 INR (Videography)
8. Alamparai Fort – A Significant Historical Site
Not many are aware of the existence of the Alamparai Fort in Mahabalipuram, since it’s not as famous as other places to see in Mahabalipuram. However, this captivating fort is a very important historical site in this city. It’s essentially a long forgotten trading post that has a striking and rather imposing architecture, and the views from its top are sure to take your breath away! Though it’s not in perfect condition anymore, a walk across this dilapidated yet enthralling fort will make you feel like stepping back in time. Owing to the numerous shrubs, creepers, bushes, and trees here, it is a remarkable example of ancient architecture that has let nature take over and blended perfectly with the surrounding foliage.
Location: Edaikazhinadu, Tamil Nadu 603304
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entrance fee: Nil
9. Crocodile Bank – The Predators In Their Habitat
Looking for some places to visit in Mahabalipuram next? Don’t forget to visit the exciting Crocodile Bank situated about 14 km from Mahabalipuram main city. Established by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker in 1976, this conservation center holds a diverse species of Indian and African alligators, crocodiles, and even snakes. You’ll be able to spot these ferocious beings out in open pools here that have been made to resemble their natural habitat. The snake farm located right next to this center has a laboratory where antivenom is produced, helping the local snake catcher tribes make a living.
Location: Post Bag No 4, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entrance fee: INR 35
10. Covelong Beach – A Charming Retreat
A popular tourist hub on the coastline of the Bay of Bengal, the famous Covelong Beach is located in the Covelong Village a few miles away from the main city of Mahabalipuram. This charming retreat is one of the best beaches near Chennai for nature lovers, beach bums, and couples who wish to spend quality time on its silver sands, palm trees, and crashing waves. Once entangled in long-drawn political squabbles, this beach has now been transformed into one of most happening picnic spots near Chennai. Another interesting factor that draws people to this village is that it has India’s first Surfing School which makes it one of the top places to see in Mahabalipuram.
Location: Covelong, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Entrance fee: Nil
11. Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple – Rock Cut Relic
The Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple represents the pinnacle of 7th century Indian architecture. This monument, commonly known as Yampuri, is a rock-cut edifice that awes visitors with its beauty. one among the most lovely places to visit in Mahabalipuram The sculptures of Hindu mythology decorate the Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple. It depicts Lord Vishnu riding his seven-hooded snake and Lord Durga riding her lion as she defeats the monster Mahishasur. This edifice, which attracts Hindu worshippers and visitors, also has images from the Puranas painted on the cave walls. This temple sits on a hill and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Timings: NA
Entrance fee: Nil
12. Krishna Cave Temple – Remarkable Wall Carvings
Another open-air relic with construction going back to the seventh century. This temple, as the name implies, is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the most visually appealing. places to visit in Mahabalipuram . Back in 1984, the monument became a component of the Group of Monuments that were included to the list of UNSECO World Heritage Sites. The temple was encircled by the empire of Vijayanagar in the 16th century. The sculptures of Lord Krishna hoisting the Govardhan Parvat decorating the cave walls demonstrate the outstanding and extraordinary artistry of that era.
Location: W Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee: Nil
13. Ganesh Ratha Temple – Finest Example Of 7th Century Architecture
The Ganesh Ratha temple is the pinnacle of rock cut Indian architecture, created from a single rough material. one among the most intriguing places to see in Mahabalipuram Ganesh Ratha Temple was also built in the 7th century and is now a tourist attraction for history aficionados in the nation. The temple was constructed during the time of Mahendravarman I. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the God of Destruction. A Shivaling is also supposed to have been installed within the temple but was subsequently removed. In modern times, the temple has dedicated every corner to Lord Ganesha, who is worshiped here. The temple is visited by a large number of Hindu pilgrims.
Location: Mahabalipuram, Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee: Nil
14. Trimurti Cave – The Power Of Three Gods
Trimurti Cave, as the name implies, is a rock carved creation representing the three Gods of Hindu mythology. These Gods were the creator, known as Brahma, the deity of preservation, known as Vishnu, and the god of destruction, known as Shiva. The other cave temples on Mahabalipuram’s floors have pillared mandaps, but this one leads straight to the shrines of three Gods. one among the most intriguing places to see in Mahabalipuram Tirumati Cave also has a temple depicting Goddess Durga riding a lion and defeating the demon Mahishasura.
Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Timings: NA
Entrance fee: Nil
15. Mamallapuram Lighthouse – Exquisite Views
The lighthouse is one of the must visit places to see in Mahabalipuram . This specific beauty was built in the twentieth century. However, the lighthouse was not open to the public until 2011. The lighthouse’s construction is made of natural stones. The nicest feature about this lighthouse is that visitors are permitted to climb the stoney steps. Once there, the panoramic views of the environs are a tremendous feast for the viewers’ eyes and spirit. It is certainly an event that is well worth capturing!
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 9:30 to 5 pm
Entrance fee: INR 100
How To Reach
Via Road
The easiest method to go to Mahabalipuram is by bus from Chennai, and there are multiple buses that run regularly to this location. Due to high traffic, it takes around 2-3 hours to reach Mahabalipuram. There are also several options available for booking private buses from some of the main cities.
Via Train
The nearest railway station to Mahabalipuram is around 22 kilometers away at Chengalpattu. One may alternatively take a train to Chennai and then rent a cab or use the Tamil Nadu Public Transport. Buses are regularly available and may be a handy mode of transportation. The railway station in Chennai is 62 kilometers from Mahabalipuram.
Via Air
There aren’t any direct flights to Mahabalipuram, and the closest is the Chennai Airport. All the major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and other big cities are well-connected. The distance from the airport to Mahabalipuram is approximately 52 km. From here, one can hire a taxi and reach the temple town of Mahabalipuram.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mahabalipuram
What are the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram?
The following are the top tourist places in Mahabalipuram – India Seashell Museum, Shore Temples, Five Rathas, Krishna’s Butterball, Tiger Caves, Mahabalipuram Beach, Arjuna’s Penance, Alamparai Fort, Crocodile Bank, Covelong Beach, Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple, Krishna Cave Temple, Ganesh Ratha Temple, and Trimurti Cave.
What is famous in Mahabalipuram?
Mahabalipuram is famous for its beautiful temples and monuments. The most visible tourist attraction in this area is the Shore Temple. It consists of three temples erected in a single compound in the eighth century.
Is it safe to go to Mahabalipuram during the Covid season?
To guarantee a safe travel experience, you must adhere to all essential travel standards specified by authorities. Before your visit, receive both doses of vaccine and an RT PCR test, since you may be required to present it at the entrance and departure ports. Maintain social distance and wear a mask while going out. Avoid going to crowded locations or events. After contacting surfaces, continue to sanitize your hands on a regular basis.
What are the greatest things to do in Mahabalipuram in two days?
India Seashell Museum, Shore Temples, Five Rathas, Krishna’s Butterball, Tiger Caves, Mahabalipuram Beach, Arjuna’s Penance, Alamparai Fort, Crocodile Bank, Covelong Beach, Mahishasura Mardini Cave Temple, Krishna Cave Temple, Ganesh Ratha Temple, Trimurti Cave, etc. are the most popular places in Mahabalipuram to explore on a 2 days trip.
What is the best time to visit Mahabalipuram?
Winter months, particularly between October and March, are ideal for planning a vacation to Mahabalipuram. During this period, the weather stays lovely.
Is Chennai close to Mahabalipuram?
Yes, Chennai is 62 kilometers from Mahabalipuram. Both locations are well-connected by road, and you can get here by bus or cab.
Are the beaches in Mahabalipuram opened 24 hours?
No, Mahabalipuram’s beaches are not open till late at night. During the day, you may visit the beaches.
Is Pondicherry close to Mahabalipuram?
Yes, a journey to Pondicherry is doable while visiting Mahabalipuram. It’s just a one-hour drive from here.
