Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
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TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Overview
Meet your guide Shore temple.The UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is home to rock-cut statues that date back as far as the 7th century. Recognized as some of the oldest examples of Dravidian architecture, these well-preserved artifacts were built in honor of Hindu gods.
Options
Private walk without pickup
Private walk
Group walk without pickup
other travelers will join
Tuk Tuk private tour
Tuk Tuk private tour
What's included
Certified guide
Entrance fees
Gratuities
What to expect
Shore Temple
30m · Admission ticket included
The magnificent temple overlooks the Bay of Bengal and was an important centre during the reign of the Pallavas when Mahabalipuram was the main port of their Kingdom. Built by King Raja Simha during the early 8th century, the Shore Temple is a landmark in the architectural landscape of India. Marco Polo referred to this as the seven pagodas. The existing temple is the last surviving of the 7 which once stood as a beacon for sea farers.
Pancha Rathas
30m · Admission ticket included
These are rock cut monolith temples structures built in the 7th century. Each of the 5 rathas or chariots are dedicated to the lead cast of the Mahabharat epic- Draupadi, Arjuna, Nakul-Sahadeva, Bhima and Yudhister. There is also a sculpture of an elephant next to the ratha of Nakul-Sahadeva. Once you stand towards the rear of the elephant you will notice that there is an uncanny resemblance between the rear of the chariot and the elephant.
Arjuna's Penance
20m · Admission ticket included
We next visit Arjuna’s Penace, a bas-relief monument that’s considered one of India’s most magnificent pieces of ancient art, depicting vivid scenes from the Mahabharata. The relief is 100 feet long and 45 feet tall! The main story being told is how Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers, performed severe austerities in order to obtain Lord Shiva's weapon.
Krishna's Butter Ball
15m · Admission ticket included
This curious boulder seems to defy Newton's laws of gravity and has not moved an inch despite being in this precarious position on the slope for more than a thousand years.
Varaha Cave Temple
15m · Admission ticket included
The Varaha cave is carved out of huge piece of granite and dates back to the 7th century. This temple took several decades to be completed.
Pancha Pandava Cave
15m · Admission ticket included
Pandava cave is the largest cave-temple at Mahabalipuram The cave is supported on six pillars and two pilasters.
Mahishasuramardini Cave
15m · Admission ticket included
Two of the most impressive works of art of Mahabalipuram reside in this cave.
Ganesh Ratha Temple
15m · Admission ticket included
This is a imposing chariot carved out of a single stone. Originally dedicated to Lord Shiva, it now has the deity of his son Lord Ganesh.
Mahabalipuram Lighthouse
15m · Admission ticket included
Built in the year 640, it is India’s oldest light house and one of the oldest in the world.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
Our certified guide will meet you at the entrance of the Shore Temple.
End point
Tour ends in Krishna butter ball
Additional information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
