Chennai & Mahabalipuram 1-Day Tour

Overview

Drive the East Coast Road to the UNESCO rock-cut town of Mahabalipuram. Pallava monuments, beaches and a cultural museum fit into one comfortable day from Chennai.

About the place

Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) is a Pallava port town on the Bay of Bengal, about 55 km south of Chennai on the ECR. The Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas are UNESCO World Heritage sites — granite monuments from the 7th–8th centuries. Wear shoes you can remove at shrines, carry cash for entry tickets, and expect sea breeze and bright sun. Lunch spots line the beach road; your driver waits while you explore.

Places you'll see

Itinerary

1. 1

   Mahabalipuram Shore Temple

   Depart by 10:30 AM45 minsMust see: Nandi sculptures and sunrise-aligned lingam

   Granite seaside shrine facing the Bay of Bengal — among the oldest stone temples in South India.

2. 2

   DakshinaChitra

   Depart by 11:30 AM45 mins

   Living museum of South Indian heritage houses and crafts at Muttukadu.

3. 3

   Arjuna’s Penance

   Depart by 12:10 PM40 mins

   Vast open-air rock relief also called Descent of the Ganges.

4. 4

   Covelong Beach

   Depart by 1:20 PM40 mins

   Quiet surfing village beach for a short break.

5. 5

   Pancha Rathas

   Depart by 2:45 PM45 mins

   Five monolithic chariot-shaped temples dedicated to the Pandavas.

6. 6