Embark on a day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram and discover the architectural splendors of Southern India. Explore ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures in this heritage site.
Embark on a day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram and discover the architectural splendors of Southern India. Explore ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures in this heritage site.
- Shore Temple - This stunning temple overlooks the Bay of Bengal and was a significant center during the Pallava dynasty when Mahabalipuram served as the main port of their kingdom. Constructed by King Raja Simha in the early 8th century, the Shore Temple is a landmark in India’s architectural heritage.
- Mahishasura Mardini Cave - This cave…
- Shore Temple - This stunning temple overlooks the Bay of Bengal and was a significant center during the Pallava dynasty when Mahabalipuram served as the main port of their kingdom. Constructed by King Raja Simha in the early 8th century, the Shore Temple is a landmark in India’s architectural heritage.
- Mahishasura Mardini Cave - This cave features two impressive bas-reliefs on its walls. The first depicts Lord Vishnu resting atop a serpent’s coils, while the second shows Goddess Durga battling the demon Mahishasura on a lion.
- Mahabalipuram Lighthouse - Erected in 640, it is India’s oldest lighthouse and among the oldest globally. Mahabalipuram was a bustling port since the 7th century, and this lighthouse played a crucial role in ensuring mariners’ safety.
- Ganesh Ratha Temple - This is a striking chariot carved from a single stone. Initially dedicated to Lord Shiva, it now houses the deity of his son, Lord Ganesh. Built in the 7th century by King Mahendravarman I, the temple also features 18 inscriptions in ancient Grantha and Nagari scripts of Sanskrit.
- 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. It also boasts exquisite carvings of elephants.
- Krishna’s Butter Ball - The next attraction 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.
- Arjuna’s Penance - The next visit is to Arjuna’s Penance, a bas-relief monument regarded as one of India’s most magnificent ancient artworks, depicting vivid scenes from the Mahabharata. The relief measures 100 feet long and 45 feet tall, illustrating the story of Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers, performing severe austerities to obtain Lord Shiva’s weapon.
- Pancha Rathas - Pancha Rathas, or the five chariots, is the first destination. These rock-cut monolithic structures are dedicated to the main characters of the Mahabharata epic—Draupadi, Arjuna, Nakul-Sahadeva, Bhima, and Yudhishthira. There is also a sculpture of an elephant next to the ratha of Nakul-Sahadeva.
- Hotel Mamalla Bhavan (Pure Vegetarian Restaurant) - Finally, enjoy a South Indian lunch at Hotel Mamalla Bhavan.

- Entrance fees included
- Lunch provided
- Air-conditioned vehicles
- All taxes and fees covered
- Expert guidance from a professional guide
- Entrance fees included
- Lunch provided
- Air-conditioned vehicles
- All taxes and fees covered
- Expert guidance from a professional guide
- Portage and tips
- Portage and tips
Mahabalipuram, a stunning heritage site in Southern India, is renowned for its art and architectural wonders, including numerous rock-cut sculptures and magnificent temples. A tour package from Chennai to Mahabalipuram ensures a delightful exploration of various attractions, all within a single day.
The journey begins with a pickup from your…
Mahabalipuram, a stunning heritage site in Southern India, is renowned for its art and architectural wonders, including numerous rock-cut sculptures and magnificent temples. A tour package from Chennai to Mahabalipuram ensures a delightful exploration of various attractions, all within a single day.
The journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Chennai, followed by a transfer to Mahabalipuram. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Mahabalipuram Seashore Temple, one of the oldest granite stone temples in Southern Asia, showcasing the ancient artistry and craftsmanship.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.