Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai with Lunch, Guide, Entrances

From $98.30 per person Lowest Price Guarantee

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You can select up to 4 travelers in total.

Adult (2-80) Minimum: 1, Maximum: 4

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Free Cancellation For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Mahabalipuram Day Tour from Chennai with Guide, Lunch, Entrances

2 Adults x $164.60

$329.20

Approx Total

$329.20

Pickup included

Inclusions / Exclusions

Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Bottled water in the car only
All monument sightseeing with English speaking private local guide
Entrance fees of Monuments
Private Air-conditioned vehicle. 1-2 guests in an air-conditioned sedan
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Private Air-conditioned vehicle. 3-4 guests in an air-conditioned 5 seater vehicle
Lunch (local cuisine vegetarian)
Parking Fees
Hotel or airport pickup and drop

Alcoholic Beverages
Gratuities
Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Any meals not mentioned

Overview

Experience the charm of Mahabalipuram with our hassle-free, all-inclusive luxury private tour from Chennai. This exclusive tour ensures a seamless experience of Mahabalipuram's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, covering entrance fees to all prominent points of interest along with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. Delve into the rich history and cultural significance of each site without the hassle of organizing admission fees or transportation independently. Travel in comfort during the journey with our air-conditioned transportation and courteous chauffeur. Indulge in enjoyable local cuisine lunch in Mahabalipuram. Unlock the treasures of this coastal town effortlessly by booking this experience. Let us guide you through the best of Mahabalipuram, ensuring a memorable and enriching exploration of its UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Itinerary

Pancha Rathas

Begin your day with a visit to the Pancharathas, an architectural marvel that stands as the initial stop on your itinerary. Explore the awe-inspiring Pancha Rathas, also recognized as the Pandava Rathas, a collection of nine monolithic temples renowned for their grandeur. Crafted in the form of chariots from substantial granite blocks, these five structures exemplify the rock-cut architecture that flourished during the Pallava rule in the 7th century. Named after the legendary five Pandava brothers and their common spouse Draupadi from the epic 'Mahabharata,' the rathas include the 'Dharmaraja Ratha,' 'Bhima Ratha,' 'Arjuna Ratha,' 'Nakula Sahadeva Ratha,' and 'Draupadi Ratha.' This exceptional site has earned UNESCO World Heritage status, inviting visitors to delve into the opulent cultural heritage and masterful craftsmanship of ancient India. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of these historical chariots, each telling a unique tale from the pages of India's rich past.

30 minutes
Arjuna's Penance

Embark on our next stop, Arjuna's Penace, as we unveil the mesmerizing tableau of rock-cut sculptures in Mamallapuram. Here, you'll encounter the captivating depictions of the descent of the Ganges and Arjuna's Penance, etched onto two colossal boulders to create a breathtaking masterpiece of art and culture. Widely acclaimed as some of the finest rock carvings in India, these sculptures showcase unparalleled craftsmanship. Situated amidst the group of monuments in Mamallapuram, acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these sculptures are not just art but narrators of history and cultural significance. Take a deep dive into the intricate details of the carvings, allowing yourself to be captivated by the skillful artistry of ancient artisans. This is an unmissable opportunity to witness the extraordinary fusion of creativity and history embedded in the heart of Mamallapuram.

20 minutes
Krishna's Butter Ball

Experience the awe-inspiring Butterball, a massive rock boulder weighing 250 tons and standing 20 feet high and 5 meters wide. This incredible landmark is perched on a slippery slope of a hill, balanced on a base of less than 4 feet. Despite its precarious position, the rock has remained firm for centuries, defying gravity and leaving visitors in awe. Marvel at this natural wonder and witness the mystery of its enduring stability.

20 minutes
Shore Temple

Experience the majesty of the Shore Temple, one of the oldest and most iconic temples in Tamil Nadu. Built during the reign of Narasimhavarman II of the Pallava dynasty, this ancient temple is nestled on the shores of the once-bustling port of Mamallapuram. Comprised of two Siva temples and a stunning carving of Anantasayana Vishnu, this historic monument was constructed between the 7th and 9th centuries, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage of the Pallava dynasty. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Shore Temple is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the wonders of ancient Indian architecture and culture.

30 minutes
Varaha Cave Temple

Proceeding along your itinerary, your next destination awaits at The Varaha Cave, a remarkable sanctuary hewn from a massive granite block and originating from the 7th century. The intricate craftsmanship of this temple, which spanned several decades for completion, is a testament to the dedication and artistry of its creators. Notable features within this cavernous expanse include the presence of squatting lions embellishing the pillars that uphold the hall, contributing to the temple's grandeur. Another captivating highlight involves the sculpted representations of two guardian angels, standing as sentinels in vigilant protection of the sanctum. Immerse yourself in the historical ambiance and artistic mastery that define The Varaha Cave, a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient craftsmanship.

15 minutes
Pancha Pandava Cave

Your upcoming destination on the itinerary brings you to the Pandava Cave, distinguished as the largest cave-temple in Mahabalipuram. Supported by six pillars and two pilasters, this cave stands as an architectural marvel of the region. Notably, the highlight of this structure lies in its mesmerizing sculptures featuring mythical creatures known as Yali, intricately carved onto the pillars. Prepare to be captivated by the artistic finesse and cultural richness embedded within the Pandava Cave, marking another significant chapter in Mahabalipuram's historical and architectural narrative.

20 minutes
Mahishasuramardini Cave

Proceeding on your journey, the Mahishasuramardini Cave emerges as the next captivating stop. Housed within its depths are two exceptional masterpieces that contribute to the artistic allure of Mahabalipuram. Adorning the cave walls are two imposing bas-reliefs, each narrating a distinct tale. The first bas-relief showcases Lord Vishnu in a serene repose atop the coils of a serpent, a scene exuding divine tranquility. In contrast, the second bas-relief portrays the fierce Goddess Durga engaged in a battle with the demon Mahishasura, astride a powerful lion. These intricate depictions not only exemplify artistic brilliance but also unveil compelling narratives that add depth to the cultural and mythological tapestry of Mahabalipuram.

15 minutes
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Our journey advances towards the Ganesha Ratha, a striking chariot sculpted from a singular stone. Initially consecrated to Lord Shiva, it presently houses the divine presence of his son, Lord Ganesha. This architectural marvel, crafted in the 7th century under the reign of King Mahendravarman I, stands as a testament to ancient craftsmanship and religious devotion. Adding to the allure of the Ganesha Ratha are 18 inscriptions, elegantly etched in both ancient Grantha and Nagari scripts of Sanskrit. These inscriptions not only enhance the temple's aesthetic charm but also provide a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance embedded in its sacred precincts.

15 minutes

Additional Info

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Do note that the round-trip travel time from Chennai to Mahabalipuram is approximately 2-3 hours, with each leg taking approximately 60-90 minutes.

Free Cancellation

April 26100% refund

April 27No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Reviews

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2 reviews

Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews

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We had a great experience touring New York City with Jonathan. He's a great tour guide and he made it very memorable and enjoyable. The tour was also super informative and I'm glad to have had a great tour guide during my visit in NYC. Would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a tour her We had a great experience touring New York City with Jonathan. He's a great tour guide and he made it very memorable and enjoyable. The tour was also super informative and I'm glad to have had a great tour guide during my visit in NYC. Would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a tour her We had a great experience touring New York City with Jonathan. He's a great tour guide and he made it very memorable and enjoyable. The tour was also super informative and I'm glad to have had a great tour guide during my visit in NYC. Would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a tour her We had a great experience touring New York City with Jonathan. He's a great tour guide and he made it very memorable and enjoyable. The tour was also super informative and I'm glad to have had a great tour guide during my visit in NYC. Would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a tour her We had a great experience touring New York City with Jonathan. He's a great tour guide and he made it very memorable and enjoyable. The tour was also super informative and I'm glad to have had a great tour guide during my visit in NYC. Would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a tour her We had a great experience touring New York City with Jonathan. He's a great tour guide and he made it very memorable and enjoyable. The tour was also super informative and I'm glad to have had a great tour guide during my visit in NYC. Would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a tour her

Reviews by TravelOne travelers

Showing 1-2 of 2 reviews with 5 stars

A relaxing way to view the UNESCO site and nearby attractions

Published on Feb, 2025

I learned so much on this tour! It was fabulous and my guide was really nice, and easy to chat with. I got so much more out of the experience of seeing the temples by having her there to explain and answer my questions. The driver was also very nice and car comfortable. Highly recommend!

A fascinating day out, travelling back in time.

Published on Feb, 2025

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Mahabalipuram and were fortunate to have Gita as our guide. Her experience and excellent english really made the day for us, and on the car journey to and fro she was happy to discuss a wide range of topics including the effects on the area of the 2004 tsunami, and theincreasing growth of Chennai etc etc. At Mahabalipuram itself we saw all the key sights and Gita carefully explained the development of the rock carvings and the increasing knowledge of working with granite that culminated in the Seashore Temple. We would thorougly recoomend this tour, especially with Gita as guide.

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