3-Day Budget Foodie Itinerary in Mahabalipuram

Day 1: Exploring Heritage Sites

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fruit Shop on Ghandi Road

Start your day with a refreshing fruit salad and chilled fresh fruit juices to fuel your heritage exploration.
Head to the nearest heritage site after breakfast.
INR150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that beautifully showcases Dravidian architecture along the coast.
Walk to the nearby Shore Temple from the breakfast spot.
INR250, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Wander around Arjuna's Penance, a stunning rock carving that offers an insight into ancient Indian mythology and artistry.
A short walk from Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Sea Breeze

Delight in authentic South Indian meals, especially the thali, which offers a variety of flavours at a reasonable price.
It's a short rickshaw ride to the hotel.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Pancha Rathas

Explore the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic structures carved from rock, presenting an excellent example of ancient Indian architecture.
Take an auto-rickshaw to the site.
INR250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Unwind at the scenic Mahabalipuram beach, where you can enjoy the sun, surf, and the sound of waves.
A short walk from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The New Lighthouse Restaurant

Indulge in a seafood platter while watching the sunset for an unforgettable dining experience.
A short rickshaw ride to the restaurant.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art & Culture

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast of idli and sambar, paired with strong filter coffee.
Check out nearby cafes within walking distance.
INR150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Sculpture Museums

Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of stone sculptures at the local museums that display the artistic heritage of Mahabalipuram.
Walk to the nearest museum.
INR200, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Tiger Cave

A stroll at Tiger Cave offers a serene atmosphere and intriguing rock cut sculptures surrounded by lush greenery.
Take an auto-rickshaw to the site.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Madras Restaurant

Sample delightful biryani alongside various spicy curries that will tantalize your taste buds.
A quick rickshaw ride from Tiger Cave.
INR350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Five Rathas

Continue your journey through history at the Five Rathas, where you can appreciate the fine details of these rock-cut temples.
A short rickshaw ride back.
INR250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Take some time to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs such as stone sculptures and traditional textiles.
Nearby the Five Rathas site.
INR500 (varies), 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Kebab Corner

Savour succulent kebabs and steaming naan as you unwind after a day of exploration.
Short walk to the restaurant.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Beach and Relaxation

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Mamalla Heritage

Treat yourself to a hearty breakfast with options like dosa and coconut chutney.
Easily accessible with a short walk.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Enjoy Morning Yoga at the Beach

Join a local yoga class on the beach to rejuvenate while soaking in the morning sun.
Head to the beach area.
INR300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Free Time at the Beach

Spend your free time swimming or relaxing on the sandy shores, enjoying the gentle waves.
Remain at the beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bay View Restaurant

Indulge in fresh catch of the day, accompanied by tropical flavours right by the sea.
A short walk to the restaurant.
INR500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Crocodile Bank

Take an educational trip to the Crocodile Bank to learn about these fascinating reptiles and their conservation.
Take an auto-rickshaw to the bank.
INR400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Your Accommodation

Return to your hotel for some rest or a refreshing shower after a busy day.
Auto-rickshaw back to the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Vinayak Family Restaurant

Enjoy a satisfying dinner with various vegetarian specialities that will leave you feeling content.
Head to the restaurant within walking distance.
INR350, 1.5 hours
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