Mahabalipuram is basically famous for its excellently carved temples and exotic beaches which attract thousands of tourists from all over the world every year. They come to sun bathe, relax and unwind themselves here. Mahabalipuram also offers several majestic and historical monuments besides the beautiful beaches. Rock-cut temple architecture is surprisingly attractive. Shore Temple, Rathas, Arjuna's penance are also worth visiting for more religious tourists. There are some more tourist attractions on this beach like crocodile farm, snake venom extracting centre, schools of art and sculpture and a wide choice of resorts along the beach draw holiday-seekers all round the year. Beaches of Mahabalipuram are rated among the most spectacular on the shores of Bay of Bengal. One can also enjoy watching the classical music shows like Bharathanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Odissi and folk dances. Mahabalipuram is also one of the finest un-spoilt beaches in the country on the coastline of Tamil Nadu. Accommodation on this beach is also very comfortable as this beach houses several beautiful hotels and resorts.

Attractions around Mahabalipuram Beach

Mahabalipuram is known for its beautiful tourist attractions which attract thousands of tourists from all over the world. The nearby attraction of Mahabalipuram beach is the rock-cut masterpieces. This place is very much famous for its beautiful and majestic monuments and temples. Temples of Mahabalipuram are particularly attractive. Among these all beautiful temples some worth visiting places here includes Shore Temple, Rathas and Arjuna's penance. These places are mostly visited by devotees. The crocodile farm, snake venom-extracting center along with the schools of art and sculpture, forms the prime attractions for tourists. Another major tourist attraction of this place is Dance Festival, hosted by Department of Tourism of Government of Tamil Nadu.


At the distance of 4 km north of the main monument complex there is Tiger's Cave. This erstwhile open-air theater was used to held cultural programmes. Although it is very near the sea, the place is serene and calm. There are five famous temples and each one of five Rathas or five monolithic temples were created in a different style. These are also known as "Pancha Pandava Rathas", and four of the Rathas are supposed to have carved out of a single rock formation. Some of the best live performances of Classical dances as Bharathanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Odissi also wins the hearts of the visitors.

Best Time To Visit

From November to February is the best time to sun bathe, relax and unwind yourself at the beach of Mahabalipuram.

Where to Eat

Beach side restaurants at Mahabalipuram Beach serve attractively presented seafood in relaxing setting. Fresh fish, prawns, crabs and squid are shown to you before cooking them so that you can make your choice.

Where to Stay

Proper accommodation is very crucial for making your trip to Mahabalipuram more joyful and convenient. As visited by thousands of visitors every year, this place houses several budget class to deluxe class hotels and resorts. Hotels here offer the best of facilities. Well-furnished rooms in the hotels are a very suitable place to stay here that offers most of the comforts at your feet. Just take your pick from a range of strategically located luxury and budget hotels. Some of the best hotels and beach resorts of this beautiful place are:

Silver Sands Beach Resort (3 Star)
Golden Sun beach Resort (3 Star)
Temple Bay Ashok Beach Resort (3 Star)
Shelter Beach Resort
Hotel Fisherman's Cove
MGM Beach Resort
Ideal Beach Resort

How to Reach

Mahabalipuram is easily approachable through air, rail and road networks. Its nearest airport and railhead at Chennai, 60 km, connects it with other important cities of India and the world through frequent flights and trains. While in the case of road travel, regular buses ply from the town to Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai and vice-versa.