Things to Do in Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a charming coastal town in Tamil Nadu, India, renowned for its ancient rock-cut temples, sculptures, and breathtaking beaches. Steeped in rich history and culture, Mahabalipuram offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, Mahabalipuram has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Mahabalipuram, including activities for different durations and interests.
Also Read: Chardham Yatra from Chennai
Best Things to Do in Mahabalipuram
- Explore the Shore Temple: Marvel at the stunning Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 8th century. Admire its intricate carvings and serene surroundings.
- Visit the Five Rathas: Explore the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic rock-cut temples representing different styles of South Indian temple architecture.
- Climb the Mahishasura Rock: Ascend the Mahishasura Rock to witness magnificent rock-cut sculptures, including the famous Descent of the Ganges or Arjuna’s Penance.
- Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach: Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, known for its golden sands and picturesque views. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or indulge in water sports.
- Explore the Sculpture Museum: Visit the Sculpture Museum to see a fascinating collection of sculptures and artifacts dating back to the Pallava dynasty.
- Try Local Cuisine: Sample delicious South Indian cuisine at local eateries. Don’t miss the seafood, a specialty of the region.
- Shop for Souvenirs: Browse through the local markets for handicrafts, stone sculptures, and other souvenirs to take back home.
- Attend a Cultural Show: Experience the rich cultural heritage of Mahabalipuram through traditional dance performances and music concerts.
Things to Do in Mahabalipuram in 2 Days
- Day 1: Explore the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas in the morning. Spend the afternoon at Mahabalipuram Beach. In the evening, visit the Sculpture Museum and attend a cultural show.
- Day 2: Start your day early with a visit to the Mahishasura Rock. After breakfast, explore the other rock-cut temples and caves in the area. Spend the evening shopping and trying local delicacies.
Things to Do in Mahabalipuram in 3 Days
- Day 3: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Kanchipuram, known for its exquisite silk sarees and ancient temples. Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple and the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple.
List of Top 10 Things to Do in Mahabalipuram
- Explore the Shore Temple
- Visit the Five Rathas
- Climb the Mahishasura Rock
- Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach
- Explore the Sculpture Museum
- Try Local Cuisine
- Shop for Souvenirs
- Attend a Cultural Show
- Visit the Tiger Cave
- Explore the Crocodile Bank
Things to Do in Mahabalipuram for Couples
- Watch the Sunrise/Sunset: Experience the beauty of Mahabalipuram’s coastline with your partner.
- Enjoy a Romantic Dinner: Dine at one of the beachside restaurants for a romantic evening.
- Take a Boat Ride: Explore the coastal beauty of Mahabalipuram together with a boat ride.
- Visit the Lighthouse: Climb up the lighthouse for panoramic views of the town and the sea.
Things to Do in Mahabalipuram Early Morning
- Watch the Sunrise at Mahabalipuram Beach: Start your day with a mesmerizing sunrise view by the beach.
- Explore the Temples: Visit the rock-cut temples and caves early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the sculptures in the soft morning light.
Things to Do in Mahabalipuram with Family
- Visit the Crocodile Bank: Take your family to the Crocodile Bank to see various species of crocodiles and learn about conservation efforts.
- Explore the Children’s Park: Spend a fun-filled day at the Children’s Park with rides and activities for kids.
- Enjoy a Picnic: Pack a picnic and head to one of the scenic spots in Mahabalipuram for a family outing.
Unique Things to Do in Mahabalipuram
- Attend a Sculpting Workshop: Learn the art of stone sculpting from local artisans.
- Try Scuba Diving: Experience the underwater world with a scuba diving session off the coast of Mahabalipuram.
- Visit the Maritime Heritage Museum: Explore the museum to learn about Mahabalipuram’s maritime history and ancient trade routes.
How to Reach Mahabalipuram
By Air: The nearest airport to Mahabalipuram is the Chennai International Airport, located approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mahabalipuram. The journey takes about 1-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Mahabalipuram is the Chengalpattu Junction, located around 29 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mahabalipuram. The journey takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions.
By Bus: Mahabalipuram is well-connected by road to Chennai and other major cities in Tamil Nadu. You can easily find buses from Chennai, Chengalpattu, and other nearby cities to Mahabalipuram. The bus journey takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the starting point and traffic conditions.
You can easily book Mahabalipuram bus tickets on AbhiBus and travel hassle-free. Here are some of the most travelled bus routes by people to reach Mahabalipuram.
- Hyderabad to Mahabalipuram bus
- Chennai to Mahabalipuram bus
- Ernakulam to Mahabalipuram bus
- Nagore to Mahabalipuram bus
Mahabalipuram’s rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque beaches make it a must-visit destination in South India. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, Mahabalipuram has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Mahabalipuram and immerse yourself in its beauty and charm.
