• Pancha Rathas - Arriving at the World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, the first stop is Panch Rathas, or the 5 chariots. These impressive rock-cut monoliths are dedicated to the main characters of the Mahabharata epic: Draupadi, Arjuna, Nakul-Sahadeva, Bhima, and Yudhister. Additionally, there is a sculpture of an elephant beside the ratha of Nakul-Sahadeva.
• Pancha Pandava Cave - The Pandava cave is the largest cave-temple in Mahabalipuram. It is supported by six pillars and two pilasters, featuring three stunning sculptures of mythical creatures called Yali on the pillars.
• Arjuna’s Penance - Next, we explore Arjuna’s Penance, a bas-relief monument renowned as one of India’s most magnificent ancient artworks, illustrating vivid scenes from the Mahabharata. The relief measures 100 feet in length and 45 feet in height, depicting the story of Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers, performing severe austerities to obtain Lord Shiva’s weapon.
• Krishna’s Butter Ball - The following stop is Krishna’s Butterball, a granite boulder perched on a rocky slope. This intriguing boulder appears to defy Newton’s laws of gravity, remaining stationary in its precarious position for over a thousand years.
• Varaha Cave Temple - Carved from a massive granite piece, the Varaha cave dates back to the 7th century and took several decades to complete. The pillars supporting the hall are adorned with squatting lions, and the sculptures of two guardian angels protecting the sanctum are noteworthy highlights.
• Trimurti Cave - This cave exemplifies the remarkable architectural style of the Pallavas. The rock-cut temple is dedicated to the holy trinity of Hindu Gods: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, and features exquisite carvings of elephants.
• Ganesh Ratha Temple - This impressive chariot is carved from a single stone. Initially dedicated to Lord Shiva, it now houses the deity of his son, Lord Ganesh. Constructed in the 7th century by King Mahendravarman I, the temple also boasts 18 inscriptions in ancient grantha and nagari scripts of Sanskrit.
• Old Light House - Built in 640, this is India’s oldest lighthouse and one of the oldest in the world. Mahabalipuram was a bustling port since the 7th century, and this lighthouse played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of mariners.
• Mahishasura Mardini cave - This cave features two impressive bas-reliefs on its walls. The first depicts Lord Vishnu resting atop the coils of a serpent, while the other shows Goddess Durga battling the demon Mahishasura on a lion.
• Shore Temple - The final destination is the Shore Temple, a magnificent structure overlooking the Bay of Bengal. It was a significant center during the Pallavas’ reign when Mahabalipuram served as the main port of their Kingdom. Built by King Raja Simha in the early 8th century, the Shore Temple is a landmark in India’s architectural history. Marco Polo referred to it as the seven pagodas, with the existing temple being the last survivor of the seven that once guided seafarers.

• Professional guide
• Entrance charges

Over the course of three hours, the Mahabalipuram walking tour will transport participants to the 7th century, showcasing incredible rock-cut monuments. This tour is organized by a company approved by the Ministry of Tourism and is a member of the Indian Tour Operators Association.

Participants can enjoy the tour on foot or in their own vehicle. Additionally, arrangements for a tuk-tuk or autorickshaw can be made. Visitors will encounter masterpieces from this World Heritage site, including the Pancha Rathas, which are rock-cut monolithic temples, Arjuna’s Penance, a giant open-air rock relief, the gravity-defying Krishna’s Butterball, and the Shore Temple, the last remaining of the Seven Pagodas mentioned by Marco Polo.

Mahabalipuram proudly holds the title of the world’s first stone carving city. However, the next generation of sculptors is moving to urban areas for employment, posing a threat to this fine art. Our company supports this community by training and employing local guides and purchasing their crafts to enhance their livelihoods.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.