Full-Day Sightseeing Tour To Mahabalipuram

Shore temple

Pancha Rathas

Arjuna Penance

Butter ball

Tiger cave

Show all 9 photos

Highlights

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram

Discover ancient temples, including the Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas

Explore intricate rock carvings at Krishna Mandapam and Varaha Cave Temple

Enjoy a relaxing beach visit and a stunning sunset at Shore Temple

Experience a traditional South Indian buffet lunch

Mahabalipuram

archaeological, cultural, sightseeing

Private Tour

1 Day

Easy

English, French

Description

Explore the Shore Temple, an ancient marvel by the Bay of Bengal, and admire its intricate carvings. Discover the Pancha Rathas, stunning rock-cut temples showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. Marvel at Arjuna’s Penance, a massive bas-relief sculpture depicting mythological tales. Visit Krishna Mandapam and Varaha Cave Temple to delve deeper into historical artistry. Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, soaking in the serene ambiance. Conclude the day with a mesmerizing sunset at the iconic Shore Temple.

Itinerary

Mahabalipuram sightseeing trip
- 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Hotel Pick-up.
  - Begin your day with a hotel pick-up. If you’re staying in Chennai, your driver will arrive at your hotel at around 7:00 AM.
  - Relax during the drive, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your location and traffic.
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Mamalla Bhavan or Local Café
  - After reaching Mahabalipuram, start your day with a quick breakfast at Mamalla Bhavan or A2B
  - Enjoy traditional South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa, and vadas.
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Visit the Shore Temple
  - Begin your sightseeing at Shore Temple, an ancient temple by the Bay of Bengal.
  - Spend time admiring the intricate carvings, enjoy the view of the ocean, and learn about its historical significance.
- 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Explore the Pancha Rathas
  - After visiting the Shore Temple, head to Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), a set of beautiful rock-cut temples.
  - Take your time exploring each of the five chariot-like structures, which are dedicated to different deities and showcase amazing craftsmanship.
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Visit Arjuna’s Penance
  - Proceed to Arjuna’s Penance, the famous bas-relief sculpture depicting the story from the Mahabharata.
  - Marvel at the fine details of the carving, one of the largest in India, portraying numerous gods and animals.
- 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Lunch at Hotel Mamalla’s Buffet
  - Enjoy a hearty buffet lunch at Hotel Mamalla Heritage (a well-known hotel and restaurant in Mahabalipuram).
  - The buffet offers a variety of South Indian dishes, including seafood, vegetarian options, and traditional items like sambar, rasam, curd rice, and more.
- 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Visit the Krishna Mandapam and Other Sculptures
  - Post-lunch, head to Krishna Mandapam, a cave temple with beautiful carvings of Lord Krishna's childhood stories.
  - Explore Varaha Cave Temple nearby and admire the intricate rock carvings.
- 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Relax at the Beach
  - Take some time to unwind at the Mahabalipuram Beach.
  - Relax by the shore, take a stroll, or simply enjoy the sea breeze.
- 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Sunset at Shore Temple
  - Head back to the Shore Temple for a perfect view of the sunset.
  - Capture photos of the temple and the ocean with the golden light of the setting sun.
- 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Hotel Drop-off
  - After the sunset, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Chennai or your designated drop-off point.
  - The drive back to Chennai takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- 7:00 PM: Arrival at Hotel
  - Arrive back at your hotel, concluding your memorable day trip to Mahabalipuram.

What's Included

Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off: Pickup from your hotel in Chennai (or nearby areas). Comfortable, air-conditioned transport (car, van, or bus depending on the number of guests). Drop-off back to your hotel after the tour

Sightseeing: Visits to key attractions like Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), Arjuna’s Penance (Descent of the Ganges), Krishna Mandapam, and Varaha Cave Temple. Entry to all the listed monuments and temples

Lunch: Buffet lunch at Hotel Mamalla Heritage with a variety of South Indian and local dishes (vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available)

Guide Services (Optional): If you opt for a guide, knowledgeable local guides can provide historical and cultural insights at the monuments (optional, can be added at an additional cost)

Comfort and Convenience: Bottled water provided during the trip. Comfortable seating in the vehicle with air conditioning. All necessary taxes and entry fees for the listed attractions

What's Excluded

Personal Expenses: Items like souvenirs, snacks, or any personal shopping. Additional food or beverages not included in the lunch buffet

Tips and Gratuities: Tips for the driver, guide (if applicable), or any other staff are not included in the package

Additional Activities: Optional activities like boating, extra visits to other attractions, or special cultural performances

Know Before You Go

Essentials to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes.

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Water bottle and light snacks.

Camera or smartphone for pictures.

Cash (for tickets, local shopping, and tips).

Important Tips

Entry Tickets: Combination tickets are available for Shore Temple, Five Rathas, and other monuments.

Timings: Most monuments are open from 6 AM to 6 PM.

Respect Monuments: Avoid touching or climbing on ancient structures.

Best Time to Visit

Winter months (October to March) are ideal due to pleasant weather.

Avoid the afternoons in summer as it gets hot.

Enjoy your day trip to Mahabalipuram! It's a mix of history, culture, and coastal charm.

What To Bring

Comfortable Clothing:

Light, breathable clothes: Since the weather can be warm and humid, opt for lightweight, cotton clothes to stay cool.

Comfortable shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals as you’ll be exploring temples and monuments on foot. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for ease of walking over uneven terrain.

Sun Protection:

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s rays, especially if you’re spending time outdoors at the beach or temples.

Hat or Cap: A wide-brimmed hat or cap will help keep the sun off your face.

Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the bright sun.

Personal Essentials:

Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during the trip. Carry a refillable water bottle, as bottled water is often available for purchase at stops.

Tissues or Wet Wipes: Useful for cleaning hands before eating or after visiting the temples.

Hand Sanitizer: Good for quick hygiene when handwashing facilities aren’t readily available.

Camera or Smartphone:

Camera or Smartphone: To capture the stunning scenery, architecture, and historical monuments. Don’t forget extra storage for photos.

Chargers: Ensure your phone/camera has sufficient battery and bring a power bank if needed.

Hat and Sunglasses:

Hat or Scarf: A light scarf or shawl can also be useful for covering your shoulders when visiting temples, especially if you wish to be respectful of local customs.

Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the sun.

Light Snacks (Optional):

If you're someone who gets hungry between meals, consider packing some light snacks such as fruits, nuts, or energy bars.

Personal Identification:

ID Proof: Carry a copy of your ID proof (Aadhar, passport, or any other government-issued ID) in case it's required.

Travel Tickets: If you've pre-booked tickets or have a reservation, carry a copy (physical or digital).

Cash/Card:

Cash or Credit Card: While many places accept cards, it's always good to carry some cash for small purchases or tipping.

Medication (if necessary):

If you require any medications, be sure to bring them with you. It's a good idea to carry a basic first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, band-aids, and any personal medications.

Umbrella or Raincoat (Optional):

If you're traveling during the monsoon season (June–September), an umbrella or light raincoat can be helpful, just in case you encounter rain.

Small Backpack or Bag:

A small backpack or crossbody bag to keep your essentials like water, sunscreen, camera, and snacks easily accessible.

Meeting Point

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India

Cancellation Policy

For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -

Refund of 80% of the tour price.

Price

Adult
1 to 1	/person
2 to 3	/person
4 to 6	/person
7 to 0	/person
Child
1 to 10	/person
This is a private tour

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

/person

Adult

Child

Total

0.00

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

Full-Day Sightseeing Tour To Mahabalipuram

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Mahabalipuram sightseeing trip

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

Create your own adventure!

Choose Currency

Full-Day Sightseeing Tour To Mahabalipuram

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Mahabalipuram sightseeing trip

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

Create your own adventure!

Choose Currency Close modal

Cookie icon We use cookies!

Choose Currency