9:00 AM Pick up from your hotel. Depart from your Chennai hotel for a comprehensive excursion to Mahabalipuram.

Visit the Shore Temple, an 8th-century marvel overlooking the Bay of Bengal. This structural temple, built from granite blocks during the reign of Narasimhavarman II, is one of South India’s oldest and most significant temples. Its intricate carvings and architectural design reflect the grandeur of the Pallava dynasty, and it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.

Explore the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), a rock-cut monument complex featuring five monolithic temples, each dedicated to different Hindu deities. Carved from a single granite rock, these structures are notable for their distinct architectural styles and detailed carvings. Each ratha is named after the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata epic and represents various forms of Hindu temple architecture.

Admire Arjuna’s Penance, a colossal rock relief depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including Arjuna’s quest for divine insight. This massive bas-relief, carved on a giant granite boulder, is one of the largest and most detailed rock carvings in India, showcasing intricate scenes of gods, demons, and animals in a dynamic, narrative composition.

See Krishna’s Butterball, a massive granite boulder perched precariously on a slope. This geological marvel, weighing approximately 250 tons, appears to defy gravity, sparking curiosity and fascination among visitors. Its unique balance and the surrounding ancient temple ruins create a striking visual contrast.

Visit Tiger Cave, an early rock-cut temple situated just north of Mahabalipuram. The cave features elaborate carvings and an open-air shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its tiger-themed sculptures, the cave is believed to have served as a shrine or meditation spot, adding to its historical and spiritual significance.

Explore the Descent of the Ganges, also known as Arjuna’s Penance, a monumental bas-relief carved on a rock face. This elaborate depiction illustrates the descent of the sacred Ganges river to Earth, featuring a vivid array of mythological figures, including gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, demonstrating the artistic mastery of the Pallava sculptors.

Discover the Mahabalipuram Open-Air Museum, which showcases a collection of rock-cut sculptures and architectural relics from the Pallava dynasty. The museum offers detailed insights into the period’s artistic achievements, including various carvings and structures that highlight the religious and cultural significance of the era.

Visit the Cave Temples of Mahabalipuram, including the Varaha Cave and Mahishasuramardini Cave. These rock-cut temples, carved into granite hills, feature intricate depictions of deities and mythological scenes. The Varaha Cave, dedicated to the boar incarnation of Vishnu, and the Mahishasuramardini Cave, illustrating the goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon, are notable for their detailed and expressive carvings.

After a day of exploring Mahabalipuram’s rich historical and cultural landmarks, drive back to Chennai.