3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Mahabalipuram: Relaxation and Culture on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Relaxing at the Beach

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Kashi Art Café, enjoying healthy options and local flavours.
Located in the heart of Mahabalipuram, just a short walk from the beachfront.
IND50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the iconic Shore Temple, marveling at its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.
A 10-minute walk from the café.
IND300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dalon Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious, budget-friendly lunch featuring fresh seafood and Indian dishes.
Located 5 minutes from the Shore Temple.
IND200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at the beach, the perfect spot for sandcastle building and splashy fun.
The beach is right next to the Shore Temple.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Visit the Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots) complex, where you'll find beautifully carved rock temples.
A 15-minute walk from the beach.
IND300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening Snack at Hotel Mamalla Heritage

Savour affordable snacks at this family-friendly hotel with a lovely ambiance.
A quick 10-minute walk from Pancha Rathas.
IND150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Sea Shore Restaurant

End the day with a delicious dinner featuring fresh local seafood right by the shore.
A short stroll back to the beachfront.
IND350, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Grand World

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel or venture out for a simple meal nearby.
A short walk to the hotel restaurant.
Free or IND100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Explore the stunning rock relief that depicts the story of Arjuna, allowing the family to appreciate this cultural masterpiece.
A 10-minute walk from your breakfast location.
IND300, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stop by the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse

Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the ocean and coastline.
A 15-minute walk from Arjuna's Penance.
IND100, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The New Café

Enjoy a simple and affordable lunch in a relaxed environment, offering local cuisine.
A 10-minute stroll from the lighthouse.
IND200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Guided Heritage Walk

Engage with a local guide for an educational walk through Mahabalipuram’s streets, learning about its history and art.
Start at the café and continue to various sites.
IND500, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Sculpture Museums

Explore local craftsmanship at the sculpture museums featuring traditional art forms.
A 10-minute walk back to the main road.
IND250, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Tasting Session at A2B

Indulge in some evening snacks like idli and dosa at A2B, a local vegetarian eatery.
A 15-minute rickshaw ride.
IND150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Gem Restaurant

Enjoy a mellow dinner with dishes from multiple cuisines that are well suited for families.
A rickshaw ride back towards the beach.
IND300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Mamalla Heritage

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, where you can enjoy a selection of items.
Breakfast at the hotel is convenient.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Crocodile Bank

Explore the Crocodile Bank to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
A short rickshaw ride of about 20 minutes.
IND500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Return to Mahabalipuram and Relax

Head back to Mahabalipuram for a bit of downtime, lounging by the beach or poolside.
Rickshaw back to the hotel.
IND100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Café 12

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Café 12, known for its ambience and varied menu.
A short walk from the hotel.
IND250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Nature Walk at Half Moon Beach

Take a tranquil nature walk at Half Moon Beach, surrounded by lush landscapes and calming waves.
A 15-minute rickshaw ride.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Coffee Break at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy refreshing drinks and coffee while overlooking the sea perfect for winding down.
Nearby Half Moon Beach.
IND150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Moonrakers

Savour delicious local and continental dishes for a memorable farewell dinner with the family.
A short ride to Moonrakers.
IND350, 1 hour
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