Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 60 kilometers south of Chennai along the Coromandel Coast. Renowned for its ancient rock-cut temples and monuments, Mahabalipuram is a significant destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in ancient Indian art.

No direct train service available.

Nearest Railway station: Chennai Central railway station or Chennai Egmore Railway station.

Nearest Airport : Chennai International Airport.

Top Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram

Shore Temple

300 M from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot. The Shore Temple is one of the most iconic monuments in Mahabalipuram, built during the reign of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II in the 8th century. It is one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India and is named for its location overlooking the Bay of Bengal. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and is known for its intricate carvings and Dravidian architecture and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fee : 40 Rs Indian

Entry Fee : 600 Rs Foreigners

(The ticket purchased is valid for all monuments at Mahablipuram)

Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas)

1.5 Kms from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot. Also known as the Pandava Rathas, these are five monolithic rock-cut structures, each carved out of a single granite stone. They are named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata epic. Each ratha (chariot) is unique in its architecture and design, and they are a fine example of Pallava artistry.

Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fee : 40 Rs Indian

Entry Fee : 600 Rs Foreigners

(The ticket purchased is valid for all monuments at Mahablipuram)

Arjuna's Penance

200M from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot. Arjuna's Penance, also known as the Descent of the Ganges, is a massive open-air rock relief carved on two huge boulders. This intricate bas-relief depicts scenes from Hindu mythology, including the descent of the sacred river Ganges to Earth. It's considered one of the largest and most elaborate bas-reliefs in the world.

Timing: 6 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee : 40 Rs Indian

Entry Fee : 600 Rs Foreigners

(The ticket purchased is valid for all monuments at Mahablipuram)

Krishna's Butterball

300 M from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot. Krishna's Butterball is a massive, naturally balanced rock perched on a slope. Despite its precarious position, it has remained stable for centuries. The rock is a popular photo spot and is associated with various local legends.

Timing: 6 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee : 40 Rs Indian

Entry Fee : 600 Rs Foreigners

(The ticket purchased is valid for all monuments at Mahablipuram)

Cave Temples

Mahabalipuram is home to several rock-cut cave temples, each adorned with carvings depicting Hindu deities and mythological scenes. Notable cave temples include the Varaha Cave Temple, Mahishasuramardini Cave, and the Tiger Cave, each offering a glimpse into the artistic prowess of the Pallava dynasty.

Varaha Cave

200 M from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot. Varaha Cave, also known as Varaha Mandapa, is a rock-cut cave temple in Mahabalipuram. This 7th-century monument is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The cave is a fine example of Pallava art and architecture and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Mahabalipuram. The cave features intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various Hindu deities and mythological scenes.

Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM

Mahishasuramardini Cave

The Mahishasuramardini Cave, also known as the Mahishasuramardini Mandapa, is a rock-cut cave temple located in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. Dating back to the 7th century, it is dedicated to the goddess Durga. The cave is renowned for its elaborate carvings depicting the goddess Durga in her Mahishasuramardini form, where she is shown slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The cave's artwork exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of the Pallava dynasty and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram.

Timing : 9 AM to 6 PM

Tiger Cave

10 Kms from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot. It is a 7th-century site attributed to the Pallava dynasty. The cave is named for the tiger-like carvings on its walls, though it is not a true cave temple but rather a small rock-cut shrine. The Tiger Cave features intricate carvings of Hindu deities and animals, reflecting the artistic and architectural skills of the Pallava period. It is a lesser-known but significant example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture.

Timing : 9 AM to 5.30 PM

Entry Fee : No

Mahabalipuram Lighthouse

400 M from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot. The Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, constructed in 1887, offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view of the area. Nearby, there is an ancient lighthouse dating back to the Pallava period. Olakannesvara Temple , the old lighthouse can be seen nearby.

Timing: 10 AM to 12.30 Pm and 2 PM to 4.30 PM

Entry Fee: 10 Rs

Sculpture Museum

200 M from Mahabalipuram Bus Depot . The Sculpture Museum in Mahabalipuram houses a vast collection of sculptures and artifacts related to the town's history and architecture. The museum includes both ancient and contemporary sculptures, offering a deep dive into the region's artistic heritage.         

Timing : 10 AM to 5 PM . Saturday 10 AM to 3 PM. Friday closed.

Entry Fee : 10

Mamallapuram Dance Festival

If you visit between December and January, you can witness the annual Mamallapuram Dance Festival, which showcases traditional Indian classical dance forms. The festival is held against the backdrop of the Shore Temple, adding a magical ambiance to the performances.

Time : 5.30 Pm to 8.30 Pm

Beach and Water Activities

Mahabalipuram has beautiful beaches where you can relax or engage in water activities. The beaches are relatively less crowded and are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the scenic views.

Mahabalipuram Beach : 500M from Bus Depot

Sadras Beach: 12 Kms from Bus Depot

Covelong Beach : 20 Kms to north from Bus Depot