What to do in Mahabalipuram

Activities, attractions and tours

Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Mahabalipuram has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Mahabalipuram, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Mahabalipuram with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Mahabalipuram, and make it a breeze to explore Mahabalipuram and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Mahabalipuram to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Mahabalipuram, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Mahabalipuram.

Mahabalipuram attractions

Mahabalipuram has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Mahabalipuram to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Mahabalipuram.

Looking for things to do in Mahabalipuram can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Mahabalipuram or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Mahabalipuram attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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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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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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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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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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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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Recommended things to do in Mahabalipuram

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
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Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Mahabalipuram

Popular places to visit

Marina Beach

Marina Beach

4/5(44 reviews)

Relaxed walks, pretty sunrises, elaborate entertainment, traditional Indian street food and historical landmarks make this one of Chennai’s liveliest beaches.

Marina Beach
Aerial Photography Drone photography of Chennai and the suburbs in Tamil Nadu India; River bed landscape images of villages; Beach aerial view

ECR Beach

4.5/5(4 reviews)

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at ECR Beach during your travels in Chennai? Make time to visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

ECR Beach
flower market in pondicherry

Pondy Bazaar

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Pondy Bazaar during your trip to Chennai. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.

Pondy Bazaar
Beach Shore waves

Neelankarai Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Neelankarai Beach during your trip to Chennai?

Neelankarai Beach
Mamallapuram Beach

Mamallapuram Beach

4/5(8 reviews)

Enjoy the atmosphere of Mahabalipuram's central beach, which is alive with historic temples, stone carving stalls and a thriving backpacker scene.

Mamallapuram Beach
Kapaleeswarar Temple

Kapaleeswarar Temple

4.5/5(31 reviews)

Marvel at the Dravidian architecture of this centuries-old temple, spot intricately carved figurines, watch devotees pray and experience a lively Hindu festival.

Kapaleeswarar Temple
Edward Elliot's Beach

Edward Elliot's Beach

4/5(16 reviews)

Enjoy relaxed walks on a golden-sand beach, watch a picturesque sunrise, sample traditional Chennai beach food and visit architecturally impressive landmarks.

Edward Elliot's Beach
Anna Salai

Anna Salai

4/5(16 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Chennai with a stop at Anna Salai. Wander the marina in this culturally rich area.

Anna Salai

SRM University - Kattankulathur Campus

4/5(4 reviews)

Explore the campus of SRM University - Kattankulathur Campus during your trip to Potheri. Make some time to visit the monuments while you're in the area.

SRM University - Kattankulathur Campus

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Mahabalipuram

Chennai

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 kms (0.50 miles) 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.

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