Ready for an unforgettable trip? Our Chennai to Mahabalipuram Sightseeings by car provides Just a short, scenic drive from Chennai lies the ancient port town of Mahabalipuram (also known as Mamallapuram). This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its stunning rock-cut temples and intricate sculptures from the 7th-century Pallava dynasty. Planning your visit by car is the best way to enjoy the beautiful East Coast Road (ECR) and explore the monuments at your own speed!
The Scenic Route: Chennai to Mahabalipuram
The fastest and most beautiful route from Chennai is via the East Coast Road (ECR).
- Distance: Approximately 60 km
- Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours
- The Drive: The ECR is a well-maintained, smooth highway that runs parallel to the Bay of Bengal. You’ll get lovely glimpses of the sea, making the journey itself part of the fun. Start early, around 7:00 AM, to beat the heat and the crowds at the monuments!
Chennai to Mahabalipuram Distance Guide
| Trip | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai → Mahabalipuram | ≈ 55–60 km | 1 – 1.5 hours |
| Mahabalipuram → Chennai (Return) | ≈ 55–60 km | 1 – 1.5 hours |
| Round Trip Total | ≈ 110–120 km | 2 – 3 hours |
Top Places Covered in Chennai to Mahabalipuram Sightseeings
| Place | Details | Why It’s Special |
|---|---|---|
| Shore Temple | Temple near sea | Old stone temple + sea view |
| Arjuna’s Penance | Huge stone carving | Stunning ancient art |
| Five Rathas | Rock chariots | UNESCO world heritage |
| Krishna’s Butter Ball | Giant rock | Popular photo spot |
| Mahabalipuram Beach | Golden sand | Calm waves + sunset beauty |
| Crocodile Bank (Nearby) | Reptile park | Fun for kids and families |
| Lighthouse | Hilltop view | Full town + sea view |
Best Time to Visit Chennai To Mahabalipuram
- November to February → Cool weather, less tired, best season
- March to June → More heat, still good for beach lovers
- July to October → Medium crowd, green views after rain
- Sunset time (5 PM to 7 PM) → Best for beach and lighthouse view
Best Hours to Visit Chennai to Mahabalipuram
- Start from Chennai at 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM
- Reach Mahabalipuram by 7:00 AM or 7:30 AM
- Temples + monuments visit till 3 PM
- Beach + Lighthouse view at 5 PM to 7 PM (Sunset)
Chennai to Mahabalipuram Car Rental Charges by Padmavathi Travels
| Vehicle | Price (₹) | Trip Type |
|---|---|---|
| Etios / Desire A/C | 3,999/- | One-Day Trip |
| Innova / Ertiga | 5,999/- | One-Day Trip |
| Crysta | 6,999/- | One-Day Trip |
| Tempo Traveller | 7,999/- | One-Day Trip |
❌ Not included: Food and accommodation
Included: Car Rental, Driver Bata, Tollgate , Parking
Coverings Sightseeings : Muttukadu Boat House
Kovalam (Covelong) Beach, Seashore Beach
Crocodile Park ( Monday Holiday)
Mahabaipuram Seashore temple, Krishna’s Butter Ball
Pancha Rathas, seashell Museum
Lighthouse, Mahabalipuram Arjuna’s Penance
What Padmavathi Travels Takes Care Of
- Clean and safe A/C vehicles
- Trained and polite drivers
- Best travel time planning
- Stops at all main sightseeing spots
- Worry-free road trip experience
- Affordable pricing for one-day trip
Must-See Mahabalipuram Sightseeings by Car
Mahabalipuram’s main attractions are grouped close together, making it easy to visit them all in a day by car.
1. Shore Temple (Alaivay-k-Kovil)
This is the most iconic monument. It’s the sole surviving temple of the legendary “Seven Pagodas,” with the others believed to be submerged under the sea.
- What you’ll see: A beautiful, structural temple made of cut stones, located right on the edge of the Bay of Bengal. It was built in the 7th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6:00 AM) for a magical sunrise view.
2. Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas)
The word ‘Rathas’ means chariots. This complex features five rock-cut temples, each carved out of a single large rock—they are monolithic!
- What you’ll see: Five structures named after the Pandavas (Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, Sahadeva) and Draupadi from the Mahabharata. Each ratha is unique and shows different styles of ancient South Indian temple architecture.
3. Arjuna’s Penance (Descent of the Ganges)
This is an enormous open-air rock relief and one of the world’s largest. It’s a masterpiece of Pallava art.
- What you’ll see: Detailed carvings covering a massive granite boulder. The main panel tells the story of either Arjuna performing severe Tapas (penance) or the River Ganga descending to Earth. Look closely for carvings of gods, animals (like the famous elephants), and people.
4. Krishna’s Butterball (Vaan Irai Kal)
Get your cameras ready for this famous spot!
- What you’ll see: A massive, smooth, round granite boulder resting precariously on a slope. It seems to defy gravity, looking as if it could roll down at any moment! It’s a fun spot for photos.
5. Mahabalipuram Lighthouse
For the best panoramic view, climb the old lighthouse.
- What you’ll see: The top offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the entire town, including the monuments, the beach, and the coastline. The current lighthouse was built in 1904, but there’s a much older Pallava-era stone lighthouse at the base.
Covelong Beach (Kovalam) – Your Seaside Stopover
Covelong Beach is a popular stopover located on the ECR, well before you reach the main Mahabalipuram monuments. It’s often called India’s first surfing village!
- What you’ll see: This tranquil beach, formerly a fishing village, is ideal for a quick break. It is famous for its surfs schools and water activities. You can enjoy the calm atmosphere and watch surfers ride the waves.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to enjoy the sea breeze.
Distance Between Sightseeing Places Inside Mahabalipuram
| Within Mahabalipuram | Distance |
|---|---|
| Shore Temple ↔ Five Rathas | 1.5 to 2 km |
| Five Rathas ↔ Butter Ball | 1 to 1.2 km |
| Butter Ball ↔ Lighthouse | 1.2 to 1.5 km |
| All top spots radius | 1 to 3 km ✅ Very close |
So walking or car drop between places is very easy.
Contact for Booking
For booking your Chennai to Mahabalipuram car package at the best price:
- Mobile: 9962717100
- Website: www.balajidarshanbooking.com
- Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it possible to see all of Mahabalipuram in one day?
Yes, Mahabalipuram is perfect for a one-day trip from Chennai. If you start early (around 7:00 AM), you can comfortably visit all the main monuments and return to Chennai by evening.
2. How much time does it take to reach Mahabalipuram from Chennai by car?
It takes 1 to 1.5 hours one way.
3. Is a car trip good for families with kids and elders?
Yes. AC cars, easy stops, and short distance make it perfect.
4. Are the sightseeing places close to each other?
Yes. All main spots like Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Butter Ball, and beach are within 1 to 3 km radius.
5. Do we need to pay extra for toll and parking?
When you book with Padmavathi Travels, the price already covers travel.