Travel Guide of Mahabalipuram in India by Influencers and Travelers
Mamallapuram, also known as Mahabalipuram, is a town in Chengalpattu district in the southeastern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, best known for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of 7th- and 8th-century Hindu Group of Monuments at Mamallapuram.
The Best Things to Do and Visit in Mahabalipuram
TRAVELERS TOP 10 :
1 - Shore Temple
The Shore Temple is so named because it overlooks the shore of the Bay of Bengal. It is located near Chennai in Tamil Nadu. It is a structural temple, built with blocks of granite, dating from the 8th century AD.
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2 - Descent of the Ganges
Descent of the Ganges is a monument at Mamallapuram, on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, in the Chengalpattu district of the state of Tamil Nadu, India.
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3 - Pancha Rathas
Pancha Rathas is a monument complex at Mahabalipuram, on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, in the Kancheepuram district of the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Pancha Rathas is an example of monolithic Indian rock-cut architecture.
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4 - Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram
The Group of Monuments at Mamallapuram is a collection of 7th- and 8th-century CE religious monuments in the coastal resort town of Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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5 - Mamallapuram Light House
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6 - Madras Crocodile Bank Trust
14 km away
The Chennai Snake Park, officially the Chennai Snake Park Trust, is a not-for-profit NGO constituted in 1972 by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker and is India's first reptile park.
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7 - Chengalpattu
15 km away
Chengalpattu, previously known as Chingleput, is a town and the headquarters of Chengalpattu district of the state Tamil Nadu, India. It was split up from Kanchipuram district. The District has largest towns as Pallavaram and Tambaram.
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8 - Potheri
28 km away
Potheri is a rapidly-growing village locality in the South suburbs of the Metropolitan city Chennai. It is a town that comes under Maraimalai Nagar municipality of Chengalpattu taluk in the Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu, India.
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9 - Vandalur Zoo
31 km away
Arignar Anna Zoological Park, also known as the Vandalur Zoo, is a zoological garden located in Vandalur, is in the southwestern part of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, about 31 kilometres from the Chennai Central and 15 kilometres from Chennai Airport.
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10 - New Perungalathur
33 km away
Perungalathur is a town in the Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu, India. A residential locality in southern part of the metropolitan are of Chennai, the town is served by Perungalathur Railway Station of the Chennai Suburban Railway Network.
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11 - Vedanthangal
39 km away
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a 30-hectare protected area located in the Chengalpattu District and Madurantakam taluk of the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The sanctuary is about 75 kilometres from Chennai on National Highway 45. Easily reachable from Madurantakam and Chengalpattu.
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12 - Adyar
43 km away
Adyar, or Adyar-On-Sea, is a large neighbourhood in south Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is located on the southern banks of the Adyar River.
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13 - St Thomas Mount
43 km away
St.Thomas Mount-cum-Pallavaram is a cantonment in Chennai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Located in Chennai, it includes some prominent places like the St.Thomas Mount itself, which is a sacred place of Christians where St.Thomas
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14 - Elliots Beach
43 km away
Elliot's Beach is located in Besant Nagar, Chennai, India. It forms the end-point of the Marina Beach shore, and is named after Edward Elliot, onetime chief magistrate and superintendent of police, Madras.
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15 - Nandambakkam
44 km away
Nandambakkam is a western neighbourhood of Chennai, India. It is known for the Chennai Trade Centre and the Surgical Instruments Factory. In 2011 Nandambakkam was included to Chennai district by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
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Pictures and Stories of Mahabalipuram from Influencers
6 pictures of Mahabalipuram from Kishore Ragav Ganesh Kumar, Cassi Josh, Prabhu Chandian and other travelers
- Sunrise at Shore temple at Mahabalipuram. ...click to read more
- Experienced by @Prasanna Venkatesh Krishnamoorthy | ©Unsplash
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Why should you visit Mahabalipuram ?
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🗼 Landmark 🚢 LighthouseHow to visit Mahabalipuram ?
Why traveling there?
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a charming coastal town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is renowned for its stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient temples, pristine beaches, and exquisite stone carvings. Traveling to Mahabalipuram offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of India, along with its natural beauty.
How to get there?
Mahabalipuram is well-connected by road and is approximately 60 kilometers from Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and around the world. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mahabalipuram. Alternatively, you can take a train to Chennai Central Railway Station and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Mahabalipuram.
What to book in advance?
It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist season (December to February). Also, consider booking guided tours to explore the archaeological sites and learn about the rich history of the region. Some popular tour options include day trips to the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance.
What are the costs?
The costs of traveling to Mahabalipuram can vary depending on your preferences. Budget accommodations start at around $10 per night, while luxury hotels can cost upwards of $100 per night. Meals at local restaurants can cost between $2 to $10, while entrance fees to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites range from $5 to $10 per person. Taxis and buses are reasonably priced, with a one-way trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram costing around $20 by taxi and $2 by bus.
What are the best things to do?
1. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance.
2. Relax on the pristine beaches, such as Mahabalipuram Beach and Sadras Beach.
3. Visit the impressive Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the town and coastline.
4. Learn about the region's history and culture at the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival, held annually in January.
5. Take a guided tour of the ancient rock-cut caves and temples, such as the Krishna Mandapam and Varaha Cave Temple.
Where to eat?
1. Moonrakers Restaurant: Known for its delicious seafood, Moonrakers offers a variety of Indian and international dishes.
2. Le Yogi: This restaurant serves authentic South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and vadas.
3. Santana: A beachside cafe offering a relaxed ambiance and a diverse menu, including fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas.
Where to stay?
1. Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram: A luxurious beachfront resort with elegant rooms, two swimming pools, and a spa.
2. Chariot Beach Resort: Offering comfortable accommodations, a large swimming pool, and easy access to the beach.
3. Hotel Mamalla Heritage: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and close proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Off the beaten path
For an unusual travel experience, visit the nearby village of Kadumbadi to witness the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen. Participate in a fishing trip with them, learn about their unique fishing techniques, and enjoy a meal prepared with the day's fresh catch. This authentic experience provides a glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived in harmony with the sea for generations.
Where to Stay in Mahabalipuram
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🚢 Lighthouse spots 🗼 Landmark spots 🐾 Wildlife spots 🏰 Hindu temple spots 🌊 Ocean spots 🏰 Place of worship spots 🏰 Historic site spotsTravel map of Mahabalipuram
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