What to do in Mahabalipuram

Activities, attractions and tours

A stone structure with steps leading up to it, surrounded by greenery.
A large rock structure with carved columns and a temple on top.
A stone staircase carved into a rocky hillside.
A man taking a photo of a stone carving.
A monkey sitting on a rock.

Mahabalipuram Attractions

Let Expedia help you experience the best that Mahabalipuram has to offer! If you’re looking for fun itinerary ideas, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Activities and Tours

Mahabalipuram is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay, and make it a breeze to explore the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Mahabalipuram to make sure that you enjoy your experience to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights.

Mahabalipuram Attractions

Expedia has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In addition to scheduling local tours, booking reservations and scoring advance event tickets, Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, all on one consolidated travel itinerary, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Mahabalipuram.

Looking for things to do can be time consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Mahabalipuram attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season.

Things to do

Matir Mandir

Chennai to Pondicherry 2-Day Vehicle Hire for Local Sightseeing

CA $211
per traveller
Chennai to Pondicherry 2-Day Vehicle Hire for Local Sightseeing
Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Tickets

Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Tickets

CA $178
per adult
Chennai: Private Day Tour with Transportation and Tickets
Total Chennai city tour in Private car with guide & lunch by Wonder tours

Total Chennai city tour in Private car with guide & lunch by Wonder tours

CA $105
per adult
Total Chennai city tour in Private car with guide & lunch by Wonder tours
Taj Mahal Tour Packages from chennai with price

Chennai to Taj Mahal and Agra Same Day Tour with Return Flights

CA $70
per adult
Chennai to Taj Mahal and Agra Same Day Tour with Return Flights
Taj Mahal and Agra Overnight Tour Package from Chennai with Flight

Taj Mahal Sunrise and Agra Overnight Tour from Chennai withflight

CA $98
per adult
Taj Mahal Sunrise and Agra Overnight Tour from Chennai withflight
Sail and Snorkel with Turtles at WW2 Shipwreck Includes BBQ

Aruba Sail and Snorkel with Turtles at WW2 Shipwreck Includes BBQ

CA $168
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Aruba Sail and Snorkel with Turtles at WW2 Shipwreck Includes BBQ
Golden Triangle Tour 4 Days From Chennai with Return Flights

Golden Triangle Tour 4 Days From Chennai with Return Flights

CA $1,755
per adult
Golden Triangle Tour 4 Days From Chennai with Return Flights
Polynesian Fire Luau in Orlando

Polynesian Fire Luau in Orlando

CA $105
per adult
Polynesian Fire Luau in Orlando
Mahabalipuram Temple and Beach Day Tour from Chennai

Mahabalipuram Temple and Beach Day Tour from Chennai

CA $154
per adult
Mahabalipuram Temple and Beach Day Tour from Chennai
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Top places to visit

1. Mamallapuram Beach

Join backpackers, sun worshippers and local fishermen at Mamallapuram Beach, a pleasant corner of India's eastern coast that looks out onto the Bay of Bengal. Surf, swim and sunbathe, and then explore the ancient architectural landmarks within walking distance of the sand.
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A sandstone temple complex with intricate carvings and domed structures.

2. Shore Temple

The Shore Temple overlooks the Bay of Bengal and is an attractive sight on the Mahabalipuram shorefront. The name of this finely carved structure derives from its proximity to the sea, being situated on the sands of Mahabalipuram beach. Study the weathered façades, marvel at sculptures of the temple’s patron Hindu gods and gaze at the pyramidal towers as they reflect the golden rays of sunset.
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A temple with a tiered tower and a surrounding courtyard with stone sculptures.

3. Pancha Pandava Rathas

Marvel at the monoliths of Pancha Rathas, a complex of granite structures that have been decorated with ornate carvings. See tributes to Hindu gods and bring your camera to capture the striking beauty of chiseled sculptures and façades.
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Ancient stone structures with intricate carvings and large rocks scattered around.

4. New Lighthouse

High atop Mahabalipuram's central hill is the New Lighthouse, an imposing presence over the coastline. Climb up the tower for the extraordinary views and visit the ancient temple next door.
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A tall lighthouse with a red top, surrounded by lush greenery and a distant view of the sea.

5. Ganesha Ratha

Ganesha Ratha is one of the best preserved architectural landmarks of the Pallava dynasty. This multitiered temple was carved from pink granite and features columned façades and symbolic sculptures. Admire this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which enchants with its striking beauty and rich historic significance.
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A large rock with detailed carvings of figures and animals, surrounded by trees.

Recommended things to do in Mahabalipuram

Number of things to do
23
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Mahabalipuram: Tuk-Tuk Tour with Hotel Pickup: CA $14
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Mahabalipuram

Stay near popular Mahabalipuram attractions

A sandstone temple complex with intricate carvings and domed structures.

Mamallapuram Beach

8.4/10 (49 reviews)
Enjoy the atmosphere of Mahabalipuram's central beach, which is alive with historic temples, stone carving stalls and a thriving backpacker scene.
See properties

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Mahabalipuram

A busy urban street with a prominent church steeple, various commercial buildings, and a clear blue sky.

Chennai

Frequently asked questions

Is Mahabalipuram worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Mahabalipuram is explore Mamallapuram Beach. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then discover more of this area's coastal beaches and history.
How do I spend a day in Mahabalipuram?
Kick your day off with a visit to Mamallapuram Beach and Madras Crocodile Bank Trust. Then, explore different parts of Mahabalipuram for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Mahabalipuram?
The top tourist attraction in Mahabalipuram is Mamallapuram Beach, so be sure to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Mahabalipuram?
Three days in Mahabalipuram is more than enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many travellers book for two days on average. Mamallapuram Beach, Old Mahabalipuram Road and Pancha Pandava Rathas are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Chennai.
Is Mahabalipuram a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your type of vacation, Mahabalipuram is a perfect place to visit. Find top attractions, such as Mamallapuram Beach, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Mahabalipuram Beach, a hip neighbourhood located about 0.80 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Mahabalipuram with kids?
Planning what to do in Mahabalipuram with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're travelling with little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Mahabalipuram for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Mahabalipuram, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Old Mahabalipuram Road or Mumu Surf Shop.
Are there free things to do in Mahabalipuram?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Mahabalipuram is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without getting your cash out. Mamallapuram Beach is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.