1‑Day Mahabalipuram Adventure with Friends

Day 1: Mahabalipuram Highlights

Morning

Start early from Chennai and enjoy a scenic drive along the East Coast Road, arriving in Mahabalipuram around 8:30 AM. After a quick coffee stop, explore the iconic Shore Temple and the sculpted marvels of the Pancha Rathas, marveling at their intricate stone carvings and ocean backdrop.

Afternoon

Head to the massive relief of Arjuna’s Penance to appreciate its epic narrative scenes, then stroll to see the massive boulder of Krishna’s Butterball. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant, sampling fresh South Indian seafood, before unwinding on the golden sands of Mahabalipuram Beach.

Evening

Stay on the beach to catch a spectacular sunset, with the historic shoreline providing a perfect photo backdrop. Conclude the day with dinner at a seaside café, reflecting on the day’s highlights and the camaraderie of the group.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Fuel & Parking (self‑driving car, 150 km round trip) – 2 hours, ₹1,200 total
• Breakfast stop (café) – 30 minutes, ₹350 total
• Shore Temple & Pancha Rathas (entry fee) – 1.5 hours, ₹210 per person (₹1,470 total)
• Arjuna’s Penance & Krishna’s Butterball (entry fee) – 1 hour, ₹180 per person (₹1,260 total)
• Lunch at beachfront restaurant – 1 hour, ₹1,500 total
• Beach time & sunset – 2 hours, free
• Dinner at seaside café – 1 hour, ₹1,800 total
• Total Estimated Cost: ₹8,380

Tips

If you have an extra half‑day, consider adding a visit to the nearby Mahabalipuram Lighthouse for panoramic views or a short trip to the historic Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary. To shorten the itinerary, skip the lunch stop and grab a quick snack from local stalls, focusing only on the main monuments and beach time.