"Salt and Sea Adventure truly made our trip to Mahabalipuram special. From the moment we arrived, everything was smoothly arranged, from the comfortable accommodations to the expert local guides who brought the ancient temples and heritage sites to life. The itinerary was well-organized, allowing us to explore both the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of the region. Highly recommend their services for anyone looking to visit Mahabalipuram!"
Sights
Explore Mahabalipuram
Places You'll See
Tour Highlights
- Well planned Tour itinerary.
- Kitchen as per our own convenience.
- Best hotels through out the tour.
- Unique tour of Scenic Beauty
- Stay in destinations that have proper facilities like hospitals, Market.
- Our groups are scheduled back to back, which is very helpful.
Tour Itinerary
Mahabalipuram
5 Days 6 Nights
Mahabalipuram:
Shore Temple, Cave Temples, Krishna's Butterball, Sculpture Museum
Days Plan
Day 1: Arrival in Mahabalipuram & Relaxation
- Morning:
- Arrive in Mahabalipuram and check in to your hotel or resort.
- Relax and get familiar with the area.
- Afternoon:
- Head to Mahabalipuram Beach to unwind and enjoy the coastal views.
- Explore the nearby Krishna's Butterball, the large balancing rock.
- Evening:
- Enjoy a beachside dinner at a local restaurant with fresh seafood.
Day 2: Explore the Heritage Monuments
- Morning:
- Visit the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering views of the Bay of Bengal.
- Walk around Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), which are impressive monolithic structures carved into the rock.
- Afternoon:
- Explore Arjuna's Penance, the largest bas-relief sculpture, depicting a mythological scene.
- Visit the Cave Temples for an ancient architectural experience.
- Evening:
- Stroll through the Mahabalipuram Beach or visit local shops for souvenirs.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
- Morning:
- Take a day trip to Kanchipuram (1.5-hour drive), known for its ancient temples and silk sarees.
- Visit the Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Varadaraja Perumal Temple.
- Afternoon:
- Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at a local restaurant in Kanchipuram.
- Explore the Kanchipuram Handloom Weaving Cluster for authentic silk sarees and textiles.
- Evening:
- Return to Mahabalipuram in the evening.
Day 4: Explore the Tiger Cave & Relaxation
- Morning:
- Visit the Tiger Cave, a rock-cut temple complex set amidst scenic surroundings.
- Take a leisurely walk around the site, exploring the carvings and rock formations.
- Afternoon:
- Relax at the beach or enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment at one of the local wellness centers.
- Evening:
- Visit the Sculpture Museum to learn about the region's rich history of stone carvings and artwork.
- Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant.
- Morning:
Day 5: Shopping & Departure
- Morning:
- Visit the local Mahabalipuram Market for souvenirs such as stone sculptures, jewelry, and handicrafts.
- Take a last stroll along the beach or visit any sites you may have missed.
- Afternoon:
- Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a beachfront café or restaurant.
- Pack up and check out from your accommodation.
- Evening:
- Depart for your next destination or head back to Chennai (1.5-hour drive) for your return flight.
Notes:
• 2 passport size photos
• Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence / Voters ID / Passport
• Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
• Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
• NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
• Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on tour as well
Mahabalipuram
Tour Details
Hear from Our
Happy Travelers
—Ravi Kumar, India
"Our family’s Mahabalipuram trip was beyond expectations thanks to Salt and Sea Adventure! They crafted a personalized package that perfectly balanced culture, history, and relaxation. We enjoyed exploring the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and the beautiful beaches. The team was attentive to our needs, and the trip was seamless. If you're planning to visit Mahabalipuram, this is the company to go with!"
—Sarah & John Parker, USA
"I’ve always wanted to visit Mahabalipuram, and Salt and Sea Adventure made it all happen effortlessly. From the historical monuments to the local cuisine, they took care of every detail. The trip was well-paced, with plenty of time to enjoy the stunning architecture and rich culture. Their professionalism and passion for the region truly enhanced our experience. A wonderful experience for anyone wanting to explore Mahabalipuram!"
—Priya Patel, Uttar Pradesh
Best Time to Visit:
- The best time to visit Mahabalipuram is during the winter season, from November to March. During this period, the weather is cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) can bring heavy rains, and the summer months (April to June) can be quite hot and humid.
How to Reach:
To reach Mahabalipuram, here are the most common travel options:
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA), about 60 km (1.5-hour drive) from Mahabalipuram.
- You can take a taxi, private car, or ride-hailing services like Ola or Uber to reach Mahabalipuram from the airport.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Egmore or Chennai Central, which are around 60 km from Mahabalipuram.
- You can take a taxi or local train from Chennai to Mahabalipuram.
By Road:
- Mahabalipuram is well-connected by road to Chennai and other nearby cities like Pondicherry. You can hire a taxi or use private cars.
- There are also buses available from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, which are budget-friendly options.
By Bus:
- Government and private buses operate between Chennai and Mahabalipuram. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Importance of Mahabalipuram:
Mahabalipuram holds significant cultural, historical, and architectural importance. Here’s why:
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Known for its ancient rock-cut temples, sculptures, and monuments, it is a UNESCO-listed site, showcasing the brilliance of Pallava architecture.
Rich History: Mahabalipuram was a thriving port city during the Pallava dynasty in the 7th-9th centuries, playing a crucial role in trade and culture.
Architectural Masterpieces: The Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance are prime examples of Dravidian architecture, attracting historians and tourists alike.
Cultural Heritage: The town is a hub for Indian art and sculpture, with intricate carvings and stories from Hindu mythology.
Tourism: As a popular tourist destination, it boosts the economy and highlights South India’s rich historical legacy, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Book Now and embark on your next unforgettable adventure
With our team of seasoned travel experts and local guides, we ensure that each trip is crafted to perfection, tailored to your preferences, and filled with unforgettable memories.