Religious Places in Mahabalipuram

The temple town of Mahabalipuram, in Tamil Nadu, is famous for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing 7th and 8th century monuments, along with sun-kissed beaches and scenic shorelines.

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Things To See & Do

Pancha Rathas

Pancha Rathas

Temples Structured Like Chariots
The 8th century monument complex comprises of five temples built like chariots. The rock-cut structures are carved out of pink granite and are named after Draupadi and the Pandavas.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Shore Temple

Shore Temple

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, the Shore Temple dates back to the 8th century. The temple complex was built out of granite during the Pallava dynasty.

2 hours

Suggested Time

Olakkannesvara Temple

Olakkannesvara Temple

Ancient rock-cut temple offering stunning panoramic views.
Dravidian-style temple dating to circa the 8th century AD & decorated with stone carvings.
Shore Temple ticket counter

Shore Temple ticket counter

Entryway to ancient marvels by the Bay of Bengal.
The Shore Temple ticket counter in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, serves as the entry point to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its 8th-century granite architecture and historical significance as a Pallava dynasty port. Located in the Fisherman Colony, the ticket grants access to multiple attractions, including the Shore Temple complex, Five Rathas, and Krishna's Butter Ball, with operating hours from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM and an entry fee of ₹40.
Roya Gopuram

Roya Gopuram

Marvel at intricate carvings on an unfinished temple gate!
Stone remains of an ancient, unfinished temple entrance with ornate carvings & sculptures.
Mukunda Nayanar Temple

Mukunda Nayanar Temple

Discover timeless Pallava heritage in serene simplicity!
Mukunda Nayanar Temple in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, is a historic two-tiered Pallava-era temple featuring intricate architectural elements like an octagonal shikhara and a Somaskanda panel depicting Shiva, Parvati, and Skanda. Though poorly maintained and often closed, this granite structure remains a hidden gem worth visiting for its cultural significance and serene ambiance.
Ganesha Ratha

Ganesha Ratha

Discover ancient artistry carved into pink granite rock!
Intricate exterior carvings adorn this Hindu temple cut from pink granite in the 7th century.

Best Time To Visit Mahabalipuram

Perfect winter destination

  • NOV-FEB

    Peak Season

  • MAR-MAY

    Moderate Season

  • JUN-OCT

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant days and cold nights.
  • Things You'll Love:Sightseeing and water sports.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Mamallapuram Dance FestivalDecember/January

PongalJanuary

Book Your Trip to Mahabalipuram

From

Travel Options to reach Mahabalipuram

Our Recommendations

Flight to Chennai Airport, then Car to Mahabalipuram

Booking Options Starting From

₹7,056

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Flight to Chennai Airport, then Bus to Mahabalipuram

Booking Options Starting From

₹6,137

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Stay in Mahabalipuram

Recommended Options

VIEW ALL

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹7,782

EXPLORE
MARUTHAM VILLAGE RESORT

MARUTHAM VILLAGE RESORT

Mahabalipuram

₹6,999

Onwards

Ideal Beach resort

Ideal Beach resort

East Coast Road

₹10,349

Onwards

BODHIWOODS RESORTS

BODHIWOODS RESORTS

GKM St

₹5,999

Onwards

4 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹9,970

EXPLORE
MGM Beach Resorts (15Kms before Mahabalipuram)

MGM Beach Resorts (15Kms before Mahabalipuram)

In Chennai

₹9,904

Onwards

Grand Continent Mahabalipuram A Sarovar Premiere Affiliate Hotel

Grand Continent Mahabalipuram A Sarovar Premiere Affiliate Hotel

Fisherman colony

₹10,221

Onwards

Coral Beach Resort

Coral Beach Resort

East Coast Road

₹9,785

Onwards

5 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹28,588

EXPLORE
Kaldan Samudhra Palace

Kaldan Samudhra Palace

East Coast Road

₹17,765

Onwards

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa

ECR Kovalam

₹50,000

Onwards

Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay

Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay

East Raja Street

₹18,000

Onwards

More about Religious Places in Mahabalipuram

While planning a holiday to Mahabalipuram, we recommend you go through this trove of information to make the most of your holiday. Mahabalipuram is a Heritage destination and is best experienced when visited during October, November, December, January and February as you can pleasant days and cold nights here. One can also plan a holiday during June, July, August and September to enjoy moderate rainfalls accompanied by humidity. For people looking to the ditch the crowd, visiting Mahabalipuram during March, April and May is also a great way of exploring the destination.

Mahabalipuram is also known for its Mamallapuram Dance Festival and Pongal which are celebrated in the months of December/January and January respectively. While here, you must definitely visit and explore Krishna’s Butterball known for its The granite boulder weighs about 250 tonnes and is six metres high and five metres wide. It is said to have been in the same place for about 1,200 years. Tiger Cave is another one in the top places to visit in Mahabalipuram known for its The granite boulder weighs about 250 tonnes and is six metres high and five metres wide. It is said to have been in the same place for about 1,200 years. We recommend that you do give a visit to these places to learn about the history and culture of Mahabalipuram better. Have a happy, safe and an unforgettable holiday in Mahabalipuram!

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Mahabalipuram

What are some of the best places to stay in Mahabalipuram?

Mahabalipuram has a large variety of resorts and stays that you can select from ranging from budget to luxurious stays. Some of the most popular places to stay in Mahabalipuram are Welcomhotel Kences Palm Beach, Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort and Chariot Beach Resort.

What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in Mahabalipuram?

In the peak season months October, November, December, January and February you will experience pleasant days and cold nights wherein around moderate season i.e. June, July, August and September you will enjoy moderate rainfalls accompanied by humidity. Whatever that suits your calendar, Mahabalipuram awaits you for a good time.

What is the best time to visit Mahabalipuram?

Ideally the best time to visit any place is considered when the weather conditions are delightful. For Mahabalipuram, you can choose to go in October, November, December, January and February which is the peak season and June, July, August and September which is the moderate season. Both will serve you well to unwind from your tedious routine.