Exploring Mahabalipuram in a Day

Day 1: Discovering Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at a local cafe, enjoying some idlis, dosas, and filter coffee to energize yourself for the day ahead.
Head to a nearby cafe within walking distance from your accommodation.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shore Temple

Visit the magnificent Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Explore the beautiful Dravidian architecture and learn about the history of this ancient temple.
Walk along the beach road for about 10 minutes to reach the Shore Temple.
INR 350 (foreigners), INR 30 (Indians), 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Pancha Rathas

Next, head to the Pancha Rathas, an impressive monolithic rock-cut temple complex that showcases exquisite carvings representing the Pandava brothers from the epic Mahabharata.
Walk for about 15 minutes from the Shore Temple to reach the Pancha Rathas.
INR 250 (foreigners), INR 20 (Indians), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali or seafood delicacies for lunch at a local restaurant near the monuments.
Walk or take a short auto rickshaw ride to a nearby restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Arjuna's Penance

Explore the magnificent bas-relief sculpture at Arjuna's Penance, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and showcasing intricate carvings on a massive rock.
Arjuna's Penance is a short walk away from the Pancha Rathas.
INR 250 (foreigners), INR 10 (Indians), 1 hour

4:00PM

Krishna's Butter Ball

Visit the iconic Krishna's Butter Ball, a massive balancing rock structure that defies gravity, sparking curiosity and amazement among visitors.
Krishna's Butter Ball is a 5-minute walk from Arjuna's Penance.
Free entry, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Wind down your day by relaxing at the serene Mahabalipuram Beach, watching the sunset and feeling the gentle sea breeze.
Walk to the beach from Krishna's Butter Ball, it's just a short stroll away.
Free entry, 1 hour
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