What to do in Mahabalipuram

Activities, attractions and tours

A stone structure with steps leading up to it, surrounded by greenery.
A large rock structure with carved columns and a temple on top.
A stone staircase carved into a rocky hillside.
A man taking a photo of a stone carving.
A monkey sitting on a rock.

Things to do

Total Chennai city tour in Private car with guide & lunch by Wonder tours

Total Chennai city tour in Private car with guide & lunch by Wonder tours

฿2,482
per adult
Total Chennai city tour in Private car with guide & lunch by Wonder tours
Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Tickets

Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Tickets

฿4,199
per adult
Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Tickets
Taj Mahal Tour Packages from chennai with price

Chennai to Taj Mahal and Agra Same Day Tour with Return Flights

฿1,655
per adult
Chennai to Taj Mahal and Agra Same Day Tour with Return Flights
Taj Mahal and Agra Overnight Tour Package from Chennai with Flight

Taj Mahal Sunrise and Agra Overnight Tour from Chennai withflight

฿2,316
per adult
Taj Mahal Sunrise and Agra Overnight Tour from Chennai withflight
Chennai Sightseeing with Monuments Entrances

Discovering the Best of Chennai: A Full Day City Tour

฿4,137
per adult
Discovering the Best of Chennai: A Full Day City Tour
Guided tours with Art historians

Mahabalipuram Slow Travel Cultural Tour

฿4,644
per adult
Mahabalipuram Slow Travel Cultural Tour
Heritage Tour to Mahabalipuram

Heritage Tour to Mahabalipuram

฿2,435
per adult
Heritage Tour to Mahabalipuram
Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

Day Trip to Mahabalipuram (Curated Private Sightseeing Experience)

฿5,566
per traveller
Day Trip to Mahabalipuram (Curated Private Sightseeing Experience)
Chennai to Taj Mahal, Agra day trip with return flights

Chennai to Taj Mahal, Agra day trip with return flights

฿2,978
per adult
Chennai to Taj Mahal, Agra day trip with return flights
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Top places to visit

1. Mamallapuram Beach

Join backpackers, sun worshippers and local fishermen at Mamallapuram Beach, a pleasant corner of India's eastern coast that looks out onto the Bay of Bengal. Surf, swim and sunbathe, and then explore the ancient architectural landmarks within walking distance of the sand.
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A sandstone temple complex with intricate carvings and domed structures.

2. Shore Temple

The Shore Temple overlooks the Bay of Bengal and is an attractive sight on the Mahabalipuram shorefront. The name of this finely carved structure derives from its proximity to the sea, being situated on the sands of Mahabalipuram beach. Study the weathered façades, marvel at sculptures of the temple’s patron Hindu gods and gaze at the pyramidal towers as they reflect the golden rays of sunset.
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A temple with a tiered tower and a surrounding courtyard with stone sculptures.

3. Pancha Pandava Rathas

Marvel at the monoliths of Pancha Rathas, a complex of granite structures that have been decorated with ornate carvings. See tributes to Hindu gods and bring your camera to capture the striking beauty of chiseled sculptures and façades.
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Ancient stone structures with intricate carvings and large rocks scattered around.

4. New Lighthouse

High atop Mahabalipuram's central hill is the New Lighthouse, an imposing presence over the coastline. Climb up the tower for the extraordinary views and visit the ancient temple next door.
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A tall lighthouse with a red top, surrounded by lush greenery and a distant view of the sea.

5. Ganesha Ratha

Ganesha Ratha is one of the best preserved architectural landmarks of the Pallava dynasty. This multitiered temple was carved from pink granite and features columned façades and symbolic sculptures. Admire this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which enchants with its striking beauty and rich historic significance.
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A large rock with detailed carvings of figures and animals, surrounded by trees.

What to do in Mahabalipuram

Stay near popular Mahabalipuram attractions

A sandstone temple complex with intricate carvings and domed structures.

Mamallapuram Beach

8.4/10 (49 reviews)
Golden sands meet ancient history at this beach bordering UNESCO-listed Shore Temple and rock sculptures. Watch local fishermen at work while the Bay of Bengal's waves provide a soothing soundtrack.
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Day trip destinations from Mahabalipuram

A busy urban street with a prominent church steeple, various commercial buildings, and a clear blue sky.

Chennai

Frequently asked questions

Is Mahabalipuram worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Mahabalipuram is explore Mamallapuram Beach. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then discover more of this area's coastal beaches and history.
How do I spend a day in Mahabalipuram?
Kick your day off with a visit to Mamallapuram Beach and Madras Crocodile Bank Trust. Then, explore different parts of Mahabalipuram for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Mahabalipuram?
The top tourist attraction in Mahabalipuram is Mamallapuram Beach, so be sure to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Mahabalipuram?
Three days in Mahabalipuram is more than enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many travellers book for two days on average. Mamallapuram Beach, Old Mahabalipuram Road and Pancha Pandava Rathas are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Chennai.
Is Mahabalipuram a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your type of holiday, Mahabalipuram is a perfect place to visit. Find top attractions, such as Mamallapuram Beach, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Mahabalipuram Beach, a hip neighbourhood located about 0.80 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Mahabalipuram with kids?
Planning what to do in Mahabalipuram with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're travelling with little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Mahabalipuram for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Mahabalipuram, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Old Mahabalipuram Road or Mumu Surf Shop.
Are there free things to do in Mahabalipuram?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Mahabalipuram is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without getting your cash out. Mamallapuram Beach is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.