Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Site of 7th-century rock-cut temples and cave shrines. Some of the top tourist places to visit in Mahabalipuram are:

Shore Temple
Five Rathas
Arjuna’s Penance
Mahishasuramardini Cave
Krishna’s Butter Ball
Light House
Pancha Pandava Rathas
Tiger Cave
Mahabalipuram Beach
Descent of the Ganges

Popular places to visit in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Some popular places to visit in Mahabalipuram are:

Shore Temple:

A magnificent example of Dravidian architecture.

Five Rathas:

Five monolithic rock temples in the shape of chariots.

Arjuna’s Penance:

A huge bas-relief panel depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

Mahishasuramardini Cave:

A rock-cut temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga.

Krishna’s Butter Ball:

A massive boulder that defies gravity and rests on a slope.

Light House:

A historic lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Pancha Pandava Rathas:

Five monolithic temples, each dedicated to a different Pandava prince from Hindu mythology.

Tiger Cave:

A rock-cut temple with intricate carvings and sculptures.

Mahabalipuram Beach:

A pristine and serene beach, perfect for a relaxing day.

Descent of the Ganges:

A beautiful bas-relief panel depicting the story of the descent of the Ganges River from heaven to earth.

5 days itinerary for Mahabalipuram Trip

Here is a 5-day itinerary for a trip to Mahabalipuram:

Day 1:

Arrive in Mahabalipuram and check in at your hotel.
In the afternoon, visit the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas.
Explore the local markets and try some of the local cuisines.

Day 2:

Visit the Arjuna’s Penance, Mahishasuramardini Cave, and Krishna’s Butter Ball.
In the evening, relax on Mahabalipuram Beach and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Day 3:

Visit the Light House and the Pancha Pandava Rathas.
Explore the nearby fishing village and learn about the traditional fishing techniques used by the local fishermen.

Day 4:

Visit the Tiger Cave and the Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes several rock-cut temples and cave shrines.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional South Indian dance and music.

Day 5:

Visit the Descent of the Ganges and the Cave Temples.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Pondicherry, a former French colony with a rich cultural heritage.
Return to Mahabalipuram and catch your flight back home.

3 days itinerary for Mahabalipuram Trip

Here is a 3-day itinerary for a trip to Mahabalipuram:

Day 1:

Arrive in Mahabalipuram and check in at your hotel.
In the afternoon, visit the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas.
Explore the local markets and try some of the local cuisines.

Day 2:

Visit the Arjuna’s Penance, Mahishasuramardini Cave, and Krishna’s Butter Ball.
In the evening, relax on Mahabalipuram Beach and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Day 3:

Visit the Light House and the Pancha Pandava Rathas.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Pondicherry, a former French colony with a rich cultural heritage.
Return to Mahabalipuram and catch your flight back home.

Popular Historical places to visit in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu that is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Site of 7th-century rock-cut temples and cave shrines. Some of the popular historical places to visit in Mahabalipuram are:

Shore Temple:

A magnificent example of Dravidian architecture, dating back to the 7th century.

Five Rathas:

Five monolithic rock temples in the shape of chariots, dating back to the 7th century.

Arjuna’s Penance:

A huge bas-relief panel depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, dating back to the 7th century.

Mahishasuramardini Cave:

A rock-cut temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, dating back to the 7th century.

Pancha Pandava Rathas:

Five monolithic temples, each dedicated to a different Pandava prince from Hindu mythology, date back to the 7th century.

Tiger Cave:

A rock-cut temple with intricate carvings and sculptures, dating back to the 7th century.

Descent of the Ganges:

A beautiful bas-relief panel depicting the story of the descent of the Ganges River from heaven to earth, dating back to the 7th century.

Mahabalipuram UNESCO World Heritage Site:

A complex of rock-cut temples and cave shrines, including the Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, Mahishasuramardini Cave, and Descent of the Ganges, dates back to the 7th century.

Top Temples to visit in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is renowned for its 7th-century rock-cut temples and cave shrines, many of which are considered important cultural landmarks. Here are some of the top temples to visit in Mahabalipuram:

Shore Temple:

A magnificent example of Dravidian architecture, dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu, dates back to the 7th century.

Five Rathas:

Five monolithic rock temples in the shape of chariots, each dedicated to a different Hindu deity, dating back to the 7th century.

Mahishasuramardini Cave:

A rock-cut temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, dating back to the 7th century.

Tiger Cave:

A rock-cut temple with intricate carvings and sculptures, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, dating back to the 7th century.

Descent of the Ganges:

A beautiful bas-relief panel depicting the story of the descent of the Ganges River from heaven to earth, dating back to the 7th century.

Best street foods corner in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its delicious street food. Here are some of the best street food corners in Mahabalipuram that you can visit to sample the local cuisine:

Seafood Market:

A bustling seafood market located near Mahabalipuram Beach that offers a variety of seafood dishes including prawns, crabs, and fish.

Local Bazaar:

The local bazaar is a great place to sample traditional South Indian street foods such as dosas, idlis, and vadas.

Food Stalls near the Beach:

There are several food stalls near Mahabalipuram Beach that serve local specialties such as bajjis, bonds, and pakoras.

Local Tea Shops:

The local tea shops offer a variety of South Indian snacks and sweets, including masala chai, filter coffee, and lassi.

Kovalam:

A nearby village that is known for its traditional South Indian cuisine and seafood dishes, including fish curry and fried prawns.

Best beaches to visit in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its scenic beaches. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in Mahabalipuram:

Mahabalipuram Beach:

The main beach in Mahabalipuram known for its long stretch of golden sand and clear waters is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Covelong Beach:

A serene beach located just a few kilometers from Mahabalipuram, known for its calm waters and secluded setting, is ideal for relaxing and surfing.

Kovalam Beach:

A scenic beach located in the nearby village of Kovalam, known for its pristine waters and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.

Crocodile Bank Beach:

A unique beach located near the famous Crocodile Bank conservation center, known for its abundant wildlife and scenic surroundings.

Casuarina Beach:

A beautiful beach located near the town of Mahabalipuram, known for its lush greenery and calm waters, is ideal for picnicking and swimming.

Best street foods to have in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its delicious street food. Here are some of the best street foods to have in Mahabalipuram:

Dosas:

A popular South Indian dish made with a fermented batter of rice and lentils, usually served with chutneys and sambar.

Idlis:

A steamed rice cake that is a staple breakfast dish in South India usually served with chutneys and sambar.

Bajjis:

A deep-fried snack made with vegetables or seafood, coated in a spicy batter, and served with chutney.

Bondas:

Deep-fried balls made with a mixture of lentils and spices, often served as a snack with chutney.

Pongal:

A traditional South Indian dish made with rice and lentils, flavored with ghee, cumin, and ginger.

Kuzhi Paniyaram:

A snack made with fermented rice and lentil batter, shaped into small cakes, and fried until crispy.

Masala Chai:

A flavorful tea made with tea leaves, milk, spices, and sugar, widely enjoyed in South India.

Famous market in Mahabalipuram for shopping

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its vibrant markets and shops. Here are some of the famous markets in Mahabalipuram for shopping:

Local Bazaar:

The local bazaar is a bustling market located in the heart of Mahabalipuram, known for its traditional South Indian textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Mahabalipuram Market:

The Mahabalipuram Market is a popular shopping destination for tourists, offering a wide variety of goods, including souvenirs, local handicrafts, and traditional textiles.

Shilparamam Cultural Village:

A unique market located near Mahabalipuram, known for its traditional South Indian crafts, including pottery, weaving, and textiles.

Government Handicrafts Emporium:

A government-run shop that offers a variety of traditional South Indian handicrafts, including textiles, jewelry, and sculptures.

Beach Road Market:

A street market located near Mahabalipuram Beach is known for its vibrant street vendors and shops selling a variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Cheap and best shopping places in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its affordable shopping options. Here are some of the cheap and best shopping places in Mahabalipuram:

Local Bazaar:

The local bazaar is a bustling market located in the heart of Mahabalipuram, known for its traditional South Indian textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts at affordable prices.

Mahabalipuram Market:

The Mahabalipuram Market is a popular shopping destination for tourists, offering a wide variety of goods at reasonable prices, including souvenirs, local handicrafts, and traditional textiles.

Beach Road Market:

A street market located near Mahabalipuram Beach is known for its vibrant street vendors and shops selling a variety of goods at affordable prices, including clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Government Emporiums:

Government-run shops, such as the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation, offer a variety of traditional South Indian handicrafts at reasonable prices, including textiles, jewelry, and sculptures.

Local Shops:

There are many small local shops scattered throughout Mahabalipuram that sell traditional South Indian handicrafts and textiles at reasonable prices.

Best Budget Restaurants in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its affordable dining options. Here are some of the best budget restaurants in Mahabalipuram:

Kamat Hotels:

A popular chain of budget restaurants offering traditional South Indian dishes at affordable prices.

Hotel Saravana Bhavan:

A popular South Indian chain restaurant offering a variety of traditional vegetarian dishes at reasonable prices.

Ananda Bhavan:

A vegetarian restaurant offering a range of South Indian and North Indian dishes at affordable prices.

Murugan Idli Shop:

A famous local eatery is known for its delicious and affordable South Indian dishes, particularly idlis and dosas.

Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant:

A budget-friendly restaurant offering a variety of traditional South Indian vegetarian dishes, as well as North Indian and Chinese cuisine.

Best street food stalls in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its street food scene. Here are some of the best street food stalls in Mahabalipuram:

Murugan Idli Shop:

A famous local eatery is known for its delicious and affordable South Indian dishes, particularly idlis and dosas.

Jain’s Baker:

A popular street food stall is known for its delicious cakes, pastries, and savory snacks.

Dosa Stall:

A popular street food stall offering a variety of dosas, including masala dosa, Mysore dosa, and rava dosa.

Kulfi Stall:

A street food stall is known for its delicious and creamy Indian-style ice cream, known as kulfi.

Bhel Puri Stall:

A street food stall offering a popular Indian snack, bhel puri, made from puffed rice, vegetables, and spices.

Popular pubs and bars in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its cultural and historical attractions. However, the nightlife scene in Mahabalipuram is limited, and there are not many bars and pubs in the area. Some of the popular bars and pubs in Mahabalipuram include:

The Bar at the GRT Temple Bay Resort:

A bar located within the GRT Temple Bay Resort offers a variety of cocktails, mocktails, and beers in a relaxed and elegant setting.

Sky Lounge at The Leela Palace:

A rooftop bar located at The Leela Palace, offers panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal, along with a range of cocktails and wines.

Rooftop Bar at the Fisherman’s Cove Resort:

A rooftop bar located at the Fisherman’s Cove Resort, offers a variety of cocktails and wines, along with stunning views of the beach and sea.

These bars and pubs offer a chance to unwind and relax, while also enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the nightlife scene in Mahabalipuram is limited, and visitors should plan accordingly.

Cheap and best pubs and bars in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, known for its cultural and historical attractions. However, the nightlife scene in Mahabalipuram is limited, and there are not many bars and pubs in the area that are considered cheap. Some of the more budget-friendly bars and pubs in Mahabalipuram include:

The Seaside Shack:

A casual bar located near the beach, offering a range of beers, cocktails, and other beverages at affordable prices.

The Beach House:

A laid-back bar located near the beach, offering a range of beers, cocktails, and other beverages at reasonable prices.

The Sunflower Bar:

A budget-friendly bar located in the center of town, offering a variety of drinks, including local beers and cocktails.

These bars and pubs offer a more casual and relaxed atmosphere and are more budget-friendly compared to some of the upscale bars and pubs in the area. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the nightlife scene in Mahabalipuram is limited, and visitors should plan accordingly.

Cheap and best restaurants in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its affordable and delicious food. Here are some of the cheap and best restaurants in Mahabalipuram:

Murugan Idli Shop:

A famous local eatery is known for its delicious and affordable South Indian dishes, particularly idlis and dosas.

Jain’s Baker:

A popular restaurant is known for its delicious cakes, pastries, and savory snacks, as well as its affordable prices.

Annapoorna:

A budget-friendly restaurant offering a variety of South Indian dishes, including idlis, dosas, and other vegetarian favorites.

Hot Chips:

A casual restaurant is known for its delicious and affordable street food, including chaat and other Indian snacks.

Karai Kadal:

A budget-friendly restaurant specializing in seafood, offering a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally-caught fish and other seafood.

Cheap and best clothes shopping in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its vibrant markets and street stalls, which offer a range of affordable shopping options for clothes and other items. Some of the cheap and best places for clothes shopping in Mahabalipuram include:

Mahabalipuram Bazaar:

A busy street market in the center of town, offering a variety of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs at affordable prices.

Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Emporium:

A government-run shop offering a range of locally-made clothing, textiles, and handicrafts at reasonable prices.

The Cotton Shop:

A shop specializing in hand-woven cotton fabrics and clothing, offering a range of items at affordable prices.

Street stalls and vendors:

Street stalls and vendors located throughout the town offer a range of clothing and accessories at low prices.

Adventurous things to do in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its scenic beaches and natural beauty. Here are some of the adventurous things to do in Mahabalipuram:

Surfing:

Mahabalipuram is a popular surf destination, offering a range of waves suitable for surfers of all skill levels.

Scuba diving:

The nearby waters offer opportunities for scuba diving, including a chance to explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs.

Rock Climbing:

Mahabalipuram is known for its unique rock formations, offering challenging and exciting opportunities for rock climbing.

Kayaking:

The nearby waterways offer opportunities for kayaking, including a chance to explore the scenic backwaters and mangrove forests.

Paragliding:

The nearby cliffs and hills offer opportunities for paragliding, offering a unique and thrilling way to experience the beauty of Mahabalipuram from the air.

Adventurous places to visit in Mahabalipuram

The Five Rathas:

A group of unique rock-cut temples known for their intricate carvings and stunning architecture.

Arjuna’s Penance:

A massive rock-cut bas-relief depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, offering a unique and thrilling experience for visitors.

Crocodile Bank:

A wildlife sanctuary located a short distance from Mahabalipuram, offering a chance to see and learn about a variety of reptiles, including crocodiles.

Tiger Cave:

A natural rock formation located near Mahabalipuram, offers a challenging and thrilling experience for hikers and rock climbers.

Pancha Pandava Rathas:

A group of five rock-cut temples, each dedicated to a different Hindu deity and offering a unique and adventurous experience for visitors.

Popular restaurants in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is known for its rich history, culture, and cuisine. Here are some of the popular restaurants in Mahabalipuram:

Rama’s Kitchen:

A local restaurant is known for its authentic South Indian cuisine, including dishes like dosa, idli, and sambar.

German Bakery:

A European-style bakery and cafe offering a variety of baked goods and light bites, as well as coffee and tea.

Sthala Restaurant:

A modern, upscale restaurant offering a range of international cuisine, including Indian, Italian, and Asian dishes.

Pudhu Veedu:

A local restaurant specializing in traditional South Indian cuisine, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Fisherman’s Wharf:

A seafood restaurant offering a range of fresh, local seafood, including dishes like crab curry and prawn masala.

Best Tips for a Budget trip to Mahabalipuram

Here are some tips to help you plan a budget trip to Mahabalipuram:

Travel during the off-season:

The peak tourist season in Mahabalipuram is from November to February, so consider visiting during the shoulder season to save on costs.

Accommodation:

Look for budget-friendly hotels or homestays that offer basic amenities and are located near the main attractions.

Food:

Try local street food stalls or budget-friendly restaurants that serve authentic South Indian cuisine. Avoid eating at touristy restaurants or cafes, as they tend to be more expensive.

Transportation:

Consider using local transportation options such as buses or auto-rickshaws instead of taxis, as they are more affordable. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle or scooter to explore the town on your own.

Sightseeing:

Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time and budget. Try to visit the main attractions, such as the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas, during the day, and save the more expensive experiences, such as boat tours, for the evening.

Shopping:

Shop for souvenirs at local markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts and textiles at more affordable prices.

Popular malls must visit in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a small town with a focus on its historical and cultural heritage, and as such, it doesn’t have any large malls. However, there are several local markets and shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs and locally-made crafts, such as:

Mahabalipuram Handicrafts Centre:

A government-run shop that offers a range of handcrafted items, including textiles, jewelry, and wooden carvings.

Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Emporium:

Another government-run shop that offers a variety of handcrafted items from across the state of Tamil Nadu, including traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and leatherwork.

Cottage Industry Emporium:

A shop that specializes in handcrafted items made by local artisans, including textiles, jewelry, and stone sculptures.

Mamallapuram Market:

A local market that sells a range of goods, including clothing, souvenirs, and locally-made crafts.

Popular street to visit in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a small town that is best known for its historical and cultural heritage. Here are some popular streets in Mahabalipuram that visitors may want to explore:

East Raja Street:

This street is lined with shops and stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and locally-made crafts.

Mamallapuram Market:

A bustling local market that offers a range of goods, including clothing, souvenirs, and locally-made crafts.

Gandhi Road:

A main road that runs through the town and is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Temple Road:

This road runs from the Shore Temple to the Five Rathas and is lined with shops selling souvenirs and local crafts.

A famous holy place in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a historic town in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, that is known for its rich cultural and religious heritage. Some of the famous holy places in Mahabalipuram are:

Shore Temple:

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Shore Temple is one of the oldest stone temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Pancha Rathas:

A group of five monolithic temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Pandavas, the heroes of the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata.

Mahishasuramardini Cave Temple:

A rock-cut temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, who is depicted defeating the demon Mahishasura.

Varaha Cave Temple:

A rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is depicted as a boar in this temple.

Krishna’s Butter Ball:

A massive boulder sits on a slope and is said to have been used by Lord Krishna as a seat while he was playing his flute.

Best nightclubs in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a historic town in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, that is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. It is not a popular destination for nightlife, as it is a small town with a more laid-back atmosphere. However, there are a few places that visitors can go to in the evenings, including:

Beach bars:

Some of the beachside hotels and resorts in the area may have bars that are open in the evenings and offer a laid-back atmosphere for a drink or two.

Restaurants:

There are a number of restaurants in the area that offer outdoor seating and live music, providing a lively atmosphere for a meal and drinks.

It is important to note that the nightlife in Mahabalipuram is limited and may not be as lively as in larger cities. Visitors looking for a bustling nightclub scene may want to consider visiting nearby Chennai, which is a larger city with a more active nightlife.

Best authentic Tamil Nadu restaurants in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a historic town in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, that is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional South Indian cuisine. Some of the best authentic Tamil Nadu restaurants in Mahabalipuram include:

Annalakshmi:

A vegetarian restaurant that serves traditional South Indian food, including dosas, idlis, and curries, in a simple, casual atmosphere.

Saravana Bhavan:

A popular chain of restaurants known for its authentic South Indian food, including dosas, sambar, and chutneys.

Hotel Suprabhat:

A traditional South Indian restaurant that serves dishes such as sambar, rasam, and curries.

Hotel Dosa Plaza:

A restaurant that specializes in dosas, offering a variety of different fillings and accompaniments.

A2B:

A popular chain of restaurants that serves South Indian vegetarian food, including dosas, idlis, and curries.

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