One Day Itinerary for Mahabalipuram

1. 9:00AM: Shore Temple
   It is one of the oldest temples in South India built in the 8th century. The temple follows Dravidian style architecture.
   Estimated time required: 1 hour
2. 10:30AM: Pancha Rathas
   The Five Rathas are monolithic temples built-in pyramid shape and named after the Pandavas and Draupadi from the epic Mahabharata.
   Estimated time required: 1 hour
   Estimated Distance & Time from previous location: 1 km, 10 min
3. 12:00PM: Mahabalipuram Beach
   A beautiful beach located at the center of the town. A perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
   Estimated time required: 1 hour
   Estimated Distance & Time from previous location: 1 km, 10 min
4. 1:30PM: Lunch at Moonrakers
   A seaside resort restaurant that offers a range of Indian and Continental dishes.
   Estimated time required: 1 hour
   Estimated Distance & Time from previous location: 3.1 km, 15 min
5. 3:00PM: Descent of the Ganges
   A unique rock carving with intricate details showcasing different Hindu gods, animals, and everyday life.
   Estimated time required: 1 hour
   Estimated Distance & Time from previous location: 3.8 km, 15 min
6. 4:30PM: LightHouse
   The lighthouse built in the late 19th century offers a majestic view of the Bay of Bengal.
   Estimated time required: 30min
   Estimated Distance & Time from previous location: 1 km, 5 min
7. 5:00PM: Mahishasura Mardini Cave
   An extraordinary rock-cut temple that narrates the tale of Goddess Durga and her battle with demon King Mahishasura.
   Estimated time required: 1 hour
   Estimated Distance & Time from previous location: 1 km, 5 min

Time and Costs Estimate

• Shore Temple (1 hour, INR 340)
• Pancha Rathas (1 hour, INR 340)
• Beach (1 hour, Free)
• Lunch at Moonrakers (1 hour, INR 1200)
• Descent of the Ganges (1 hour, INR 340)
• LightHouse (30 min, INR 10)
• Mahishasura Mardini Cave (1 hour, INR 340)
Total Estimated Costs (excluding transportation and souvenirs): INR 2,910

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit the Arjuna's Penance, an open-air bas-relief that narrates the tale of Arjuna from the Mahabharata.

If you have less time, skip the beach and the lighthouse.