Two-Day Itinerary Near Chennai

  1. Day 1: Mahabalipuram
    1 hour 30 minutes (40 miles) from Chennai

    Begin your day with a visit to Shore Temple, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 8th century. Admire the intricate carvings and architecture before heading to Pancha Rathas, a group of five monolithic temples shaped like chariots. Take a stroll through The Sculpture Museum to learn about the history of Mahabalipuram and observe the craftsmen at work. For lunch, try some traditional South Indian dishes at Mamalla Bhavan. In the afternoon, head to Covelong Beach for some relaxation and water sports activities.

  2. Day 2: Dakshinachitra and Crocodile Bank
    1 hour 20 minutes (20 miles) from Mahabalipuram

    Start your day by exploring Dakshinachitra, a living museum that showcases the heritage, arts, and crafts of South India. Visit the 18 heritage houses, which display the lifestyles of people from different South Indian states. For lunch, head to Madras Coffee House, known for its traditional South Indian filter coffee and delicious snacks. In the afternoon, visit the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology, which is home to over 2,500 species of reptiles, including crocodiles, alligators, and turtles. Take a guided tour and watch the feeding sessions. End your day with a breathtaking view of the Bay of Bengal at MGM Beach Resort.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Shore Temple (1 hour, INR 500)
  • Pancha Rathas (45 minutes, INR 250)
  • The Sculpture Museum (1 hour, INR 200)
  • Mamalla Bhavan (1 hour, INR 300)
  • Covelong Beach (2-3 hours, INR 200 for water sports)
  • Dakshinachitra (2-3 hours, INR 250)
  • Madras Coffee House (1 hour, INR 150)
  • Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology (2-3 hours, INR 200)
  • MGM Beach Resort (1 hour, INR 500 for dinner)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 2450
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