Overview
Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) is a seaside town facing the Bay of Bengal, famous globally for its UNESCO-listed group of sanctuaries carved directly out of coastal granite by the Pallava kings in the 7th and 8th centuries. The salt-swept Shore Temple, the colossal 'Descent of the Ganges' bas-relief, and the legendary monolithic Pancha Rathas showcase impossibly intricate ancient Indian masonry. Today, it couples these ancient monoliths with a thriving surf scene, drawing heavily on weekend tourism from nearby Chennai.
Best Time to Visit
November to February. Avoiding the peak monsoon and the aggressive humid summers is critical for outdoor exploration.
How to Reach
- By Air: Chennai International Airport gives the easiest access, just 55 km north.
- By Train: Chengalpattu (22 km) is the nearest railhead, though Chennai is preferred.
- By Road: Barely an hour’s drive from Chennai along the incredibly scenic East Coast Road (ECR).