Top Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram

Places to visit in Mahabalipuram are plenty in number. The coastal town is renowned for its ancient temples, rock-cut sculptures, and scenic beaches. So that’s exactly why it’s an excellent destination for travelers. 

List of 7 Best Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram

And today, we’ll take you through 7 of the most spectacular Mahabalipuram tourist places you must visit. Also, don’t forget to bookmark this page. Or else, there are so many places to see in Mahabalipuram, your itinerary will end up being longer than most mythological epics. 

1. Shore Temple – A Marvel of Pallava Architecture

The Shore Temple – one of the most popular Mahabalipuram places to visit – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a spectacular example of Pallava architecture, built in the 8th century AD. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, and it is believed to be one of the earliest structural stone temples in South India. Basically, if someone decides to make an Indian version of the Flintstones, it’d be shot right here. 

2. Pancha Rathas – An Extravaganza of Monolithic Sculptures

Pancha Rathas, also known as Five Rathas, is a group of five monolithic temples carved out of a single rock. Each of these temples is dedicated to a different deity and is a perfect example of Dravidian architecture. The temples are beautifully carved and decorated with intricate sculptures depicting mythological scenes. The Pancha Rathas are a must-visit Mahabalipuram tourist place for art and history buffs. 

3. Krishna’s Butter Ball – A Natural Marvel

Krishna’s Butter Ball is a massive rock boulder that defies gravity and stands on a slope without rolling down. It is one of the most popular Mahabalipuram places to visit, and tourists love to take pictures of this natural marvel. According to local folklore, the rock is said to represent Lord Krishna’s butterball as a symbol of his playfulness. 

4. Varaha Cave Temple – A Hidden Gem

Varaha Cave Temple is a beautiful cave temple situated on a hillside. It is one of the lesser-known Mahabalipuram tourist places. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful carvings, sculptures, and inscriptions. The temple was built in the 7th century AD, and it is another example of how Pallava architecture can blow your minds.

5. Mahishamardini Cave – A Marvel of Monolithic Sculptures

Mahishamardini Cave is a beautiful rock-cut temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, located on a hillside in Mahabalipuram. The temple is known for its beautiful carvings and sculptures depicting old lores. Also, the moment you step inside the Mahishamardini Cave, you’d feel like you’ve travelled back in time. You know why? Coz the sculptures inside the cave have been literally living under a rock. Hehe, sorry, bye. 

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6. Tiger’s Cave – A Serene Abode

Tiger’s Cave is a beautiful rock-cut temple situated on the outskirts of Mahabalipuram. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known for its beautiful carvings and sculptures. It is a peaceful and serene place, surrounded by lush greenery, and is a perfect spot for meditation and relaxation. Also, sorry Salmon fans, if the title made you think that the cave is Agent Tiger’s top-secret base. 

7. Mahabalipuram Beach – A Scenic Delight

Mahabalipuram Beach is a beautiful and serene beach on the Bay of Bengal coast. The beach is known for its beautiful golden sand, calm waves, and breathtaking sunsets. It is a perfect spot for leisurely walks, relaxing swims, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Mahabalipuram. There are also various activities available on the beach, such as surfing, fishing, and boating.

Mahabalipuram is great for tourists looking for a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The above-mentioned Mahabalipuram tourist places are just a few attractions the town offers. In addition, there are many other places to see in Mahabalipuram, such as Arjuna’s Penance, the Descent of the Ganges, and the Sculpture Museum too. See? We did tell you there are always more places to visit in Mahabalipuram than the number of days you have put aside for your trip.

Now that you have known about the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram, you can checkout for PGs in Chennai for a comfortable stay. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, Stanza Living is the perfect choice for a comfortable and hassle-free stay in Chennai