About
A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Coromandel Coast, built by the Pallava dynasty in the 7th–8th centuries. The Shore Temple, Five Rathas (monolithic rock temples), Arjuna's Penance bas-relief, and Krishna's Butter Ball are iconic.
Must-see highlights
Shore Temple sunrise (UNESCO)
Five Rathas monolithic chariots
Arjuna's Penance world's largest bas-relief
Krishna's Butter Ball balancing rock
Beach sculpture walk
Mahishasuramardini Cave Pallava carvings
Tiger Cave Mukundanayanar
Sculpture workshops Mahabalipuram
Crocodile Bank Trust (14km)
Kovalam Beach (12km)
UNESCO World Heritage Walk guided tour
On the map
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors · Chennai Beach / Chengalpattu 60km · Chennai International Airport 58km
Nearby attractions
Shore TempleFive RathasArjuna's PenanceTiger CaveChennai (60km)Crocodile Bank
How to get here
Chennai → Mahabalipuram
bus · 1.5h
₹80
approx.
Chennai → Mahabalipuram
cab · 1.5h
₹1,200
approx.
Plan a trip here
Generate a complete day-by-day itinerary including travel routes and cost estimates.
Add to my tripBest Time to Visit
November – February
Nearest Transport
Chennai Beach / Chengalpattu60 km
Chennai International Airport58 km
Stay Options
budget₹700/night
mid₹2,000/night
luxury₹6,000/night
Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
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Aug
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Nov
Dec
Peak (80+) Good (60+) Fair Avoid
