Start your Mahabalipuram exploration with a visit to the famous Shore Temple. This ancient temple is located on the shoreline of the Bay of Bengal and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the intricate stone carvings and ancient architecture of this temple. There is also a small museum on the temple grounds that displays artifacts and relics found during the temple's excavation.
After exploring the temple, head to the nearby Mahabalipuram Beach for a relaxing afternoon. This beach is known for its soft sand and calm waters. Take a dip in the sea, play beach volleyball, or simply lounge around on the sand. There are also a few beachside shacks that serve fresh seafood and drinks.
End your first day in Mahabalipuram with a visit to the mysterious Krishna's Butterball. This giant rock boulder is perched precariously on a slope and looks like it could roll down the hill at any moment. It is a popular spot for taking pictures and trying to figure out how it is balanced so perfectly.
Start your second day in Mahabalipuram with a visit to the Pancha Rathas. These five monolithic structures are carved out of a single rock and resemble chariots. Each ratha is dedicated to a Hindu god and is named after them. The intricate carvings and details on each ratha are awe-inspiring.
After visiting the Pancha Rathas, head to the Mahishamardini Cave. This cave temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga and features a beautiful bas-relief of her slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The cave also has a few smaller shrines dedicated to other Hindu gods and goddesses.
End your Mahabalipuram trip with a visit to the Varaha Cave Temple. This rock-cut cave temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and features a magnificent bas-relief of him in his boar incarnation rescuing the earth goddess Bhudevi. The cave also has a few smaller shrines dedicated to other Hindu gods and goddesses.
If you have extra time, visit the Arjuna's Penance, another famous bas-relief in Mahabalipuram. You can also take a boat ride to see the Five Rathas from the sea. To maximize your fun, try surfing or windsurfing at the Mahabalipuram Beach. Don't forget to try the local seafood, especially the prawns and lobsters. Have fun and be safe!