Overview
Mamallapuram, also known as Mahabalipuram, is a town on a strip of land between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake. Situated one and a half hour away from the capital city of Chennai, this city is known for its colossal temples and monuments many of which date back to 7th and 8th centuries.
The most prominent of these is the seafront Shore Temple that comprises of 3 ornate granite shrines. Krishna’s Butter Ball is a massive boulder balanced on a small hill near the Ganesha Ratha stone temple. Well, our guide not only knows the local language but will make every effort to understand your likes and preferences before starting your trip of the temple city.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
All current applicable taxes
Admission Fee
Lunch
Private air-conditioned vehicle for sightseeing
Professional English speaking guide
Any items / services not specifically mentioned in the price includes section
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
Good to know
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
What to expect
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3 hours
Your sightseeing in Mamallapuram starts with a short meeting with your local guide who is well-informed and well versed with the lanes of the city. Thus begins your day long trip to Mamallapuram which is known for its famous stone carvings and colossal temples. The edifices in Mahabalipuram, mostly carved straight out of granite, are among the oldest existing examples of Dravidian (South Indian) architecture and thus feature in the bucket list of various tourists especially the ones interested in ancient architecture. One of the attractions in the itinerary is the Arjuna’s Penance, a giant structure filled with carvings illustrating instances from the great epic, the Mahabharata. Arjuna relief is in the centre of Mahabalipuram, facing the sea at a short distance from the shores of the Coramandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal.
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Mahabalipuram
2 hours
On your way further, you get to visit the Shore Temple, considered to be one of the oldest Dravidian style architecture in South India. It was initially identified as part of the Seven Pagodas at Mahabalipuram. All the three Temples of the Shore Temple complex are built on the same platform. Viewed from the northern end, the temples appear to be a replica of the Dharmaraja Ratha. The Shore Temples configuration of the two Shiva shrines with the small Vishnu shrine in between illustrates an attempt to balance the different, competing religious requirements. Finally, before heading back to your hotel in Chennai, visit the monolithic temples also known as Five Rathas, named after the five heroes of the epic Mahabharata. After the visit your guide will bring you back to you hotel where your tour would conclude.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Asia/Kolkata).
Additional Information
- All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Tour of Mamallapuram from Chennai
Can I cancel Tour of Mamallapuram from Chennai for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 5–6 hours.
Is pickup offered?
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
What's included?
- All current applicable taxes
- Admission Fee
- Lunch
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for sightseeing
- Professional English speaking guide
What's not included?
- Any items / services not specifically mentioned in the price includes section
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by WRJ Holidays







