Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)

Mahabalipuram · Tamil Nadu

A UNESCO ensemble of 7th-century rock-cut temples and giant carvings by the sea — the crowning glory of Pallava art.

Timings

Shore Temple sunrise–sunset; other monuments open-access

Entry

Approx ₹40 (Indian) / ₹600 (foreign) for the Shore Temple

Best time

Morning or late afternoon

Time needed

Half day

On the Coromandel coast south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram is an open-air museum of 7th- and 8th-century Pallava art — a UNESCO World Heritage Site of rock-cut temples, monolithic shrines and colossal bas-reliefs carved straight from the living granite. It's one of South India's essential stops.

The elegant Shore Temple stands sentinel over the sea; the five Pancha Rathas are each carved from a single boulder; and 'Arjuna's Penance' is one of the largest rock reliefs in the world. Add the gravity-defying Krishna's Butter Ball and a laid-back beach-town vibe, and it's a delight.

Don't miss

›The seafront Shore Temple.
›The monolithic Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots).
›The vast 'Arjuna's Penance' rock relief and Krishna's Butter Ball.

Good to know

Only the Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas are ticketed; much is free to wander. It's an easy day trip from Chennai, or a relaxed overnight with the beach and stone-carving workshops.