5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Mahabalipuram in November 2023

1. Day 1: Shore Temple
   10 minutes (3.5 km) from Mahabalipuram Bus Stand

   In the morning, visit the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest stone temples in South India. Admire the impressive architecture and archaeological significance. For lunch, head to Seashell Restaurant and enjoy delicious seafood with a view of the beach. Spend the evening relaxing at the beach and watching the sunset.

2. Day 2: Pancha Rathas and Arjuna's Penance
   8 minutes (2.4 km) from Shore Temple

   Start your day early and explore Pancha Rathas, an impressive set of five monolithic temples. Next, head to Arjuna's Penance, a massive rock carving depicting Hindu mythology. For lunch, try out some local South Indian dishes at Moonrakers Restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Mahabalipuram Beach and enjoy water sports like surfing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. End the day with a stroll along the beach and dinner at Charcoal, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Mahabalipuram.

3. Day 3: Mahabalipuram Lighthouse and Crocodile Bank
   15 minutes (7.5 km) from Mahabalipuram Beach

   In the morning, visit the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Next, head to the Crocodile Bank and observe various species of crocodiles and alligators. For lunch, try the fresh seafood at Moonrakers Restaurant. Spend the afternoon exploring the Dakshinachitra Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of South India. End the day with dinner at Moonrakers Restaurant.

4. Day 4: Tiger Cave and Mamallapuram Dance Festival
   15 minutes (8.3 km) from Dakshinachitra Museum

   Start your day early and visit Tiger Cave, a rock-cut Hindu temple believed to date back to the 7th century. Next, head back to the hotel for a relaxing morning. In the evening, attend the Mamallapuram Dance Festival, a month-long festival featuring various classical dance forms of India. Enjoy the performances and immerse yourself in Indian culture. For dinner, try some delicious biryani at Hotel Saravana Bhavan.

5. Day 5: Kovalam and Sadras Fort
   30 minutes (17.5 km) from Mamallapuram Dance Festival

   In the morning, take a day trip to Kovalam Beach and enjoy water sports like surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Next, head to Sadras Fort, a 17th-century fort built by the Dutch. For lunch, try some local delicacies at Vinayaga Mess. Spend the evening relaxing at the hotel and packing for your departure the next day. End your trip with dinner at Moonrakers Restaurant.

Recommendations

Other attractions you may consider include the Mahishamardini Cave, Krishna's Butterball, and the Varaha Cave Temple. If you have more time, take a day trip to Pondicherry, a charming French colonial town with a unique blend of Indian and European cultures. To maximize your fun, try out the various water sports at the beach and immerse yourself in Indian culture by attending local festivals and trying out traditional Indian cuisine.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shore Temple (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Pancha Rathas (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Arjuna's Penance (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Mahabalipuram Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Mahabalipuram Lighthouse (1-2 hours, INR 10)
• Crocodile Bank (2-3 hours, INR 40)
• Dakshinachitra Museum (2-3 hours, INR 250)
• Tiger Cave (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Mamallapuram Dance Festival (2-3 hours, INR 250)
• Kovalam Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Sadras Fort (1-2 hours, INR 30)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 7000

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.