Mahabalipuram Adventurous Day Trip

  1. 9:00AM: Shore Temple
    10 minutes (2 km) from Mahabalipuram Bus stop

    Visit the 8th-century Shore Temple, which is an architectural marvel filled with interesting sculptures of gods and goddesses. The temple is situated on the coastline of Mahabalipuram giving you a panoramic view of the sea.

  2. 11:00AM: Pancha Rathas
    5 minutes (1 km) from Shore Temple

    Pancha Rathas is a monument complex composed of five chariots carved out of rock. They are considered to be an excellent representation of Dravidian architecture. The monument complex is surrounded by greenery, and there are a lot of monkeys in the area.

  3. 12:30PM: The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust & Centre for Herpetology
    25 minutes (16 km) from Pancha Rathas

    If you love reptiles, this is the place for you. The Madras Crocodile Bank is a reptile park and the largest crocodile sanctuary in India. The park has more than 2,000 species of reptiles including crocodiles, alligators, snakes, and turtles.

  4. 2:30PM: Surfing at Covelong Beach
    45 minutes (24 km) from Madras Crocodile Bank

    Experience the thrill of surfing at Covelong Beach, which is the surfing capital of Chennai. The beach is perfect for beginners and experts and is known for its huge waves. You can rent a surfboard and take surfing lessons from a local instructor.

  5. 4:00PM: DakshinaChitra Museum
    30 minutes (20 km) from Covelong Beach

    DakshinaChitra Museum showcases various South Indian cultural and traditional heritage. It exhibits a wide range of artifacts, including jewelry, textiles, and artifacts from different periods. The museum offers interactive workshops and classes to learn traditional arts, weaving, pottery, and more.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Shore Temple (1 hour, INR 40)
  • Pancha Rathas (1 hour, INR 30)
  • Madras Crocodile Bank Trust & Centre for Herpetology (2 hours, INR 35)
  • Surfing at Covelong Beach (1.5 hours, INR 500 for rental and lesson)
  • DakshinaChitra Museum (2 hours, INR 100)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding transportation): INR 705

Useful tips

If you have more time, you can visit other attractions like the Mahabalipuram beach, the 7th-century Kanchipuram Kamakshi Amman Temple. If you have less time, you may skip the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust & Centre and head straight to Covelong Beach for water activities.

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