One Day Chennai To Mahabalipuram Trip By Cab

If you are looking for a short and scenic getaway from the bustling city of Chennai, then One day Chennai To Mahabalipuram Trip is the perfect trip for you. Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a coastal town that is famous for its ancient temples, rock-cut sculptures, and sandy beaches. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region from the 3rd to the 9th century CE.

A one day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram by cab is a convenient and comfortable way to explore the best attractions of this historic town. You can book a cab online or offline, and choose from a range of options such as hatchback, sedan, SUV, or luxury cars. The cab will pick you up from your preferred location in Chennai and drop you back at the end of the day. The cab fare will depend on the type of car, the distance, and the duration of the trip.

In this article, we will provide you with a suggested itinerary for a one day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram by cab, covering the most popular and must-see places in the town. You can customize this itinerary according to your preferences and budget, and enjoy a memorable and hassle-free trip. Let’s get start.

An overview of a one day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram by cab is as follows:

• You will start your journey early in the morning from Chennai and drive along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) towards Mahabalipuram, which is about 60 km away.
• You will reach Mahabalipuram by 9 am and visit the Shore Temple, one of the oldest structural temples in South India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Next, you will head to the Pancha Rathas, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable example of monolithic rock-cut architecture. The five rathas or chariots are name after the Pandava brothers and their wife Draupadi from the Mahabharata epic.
• From there, you will walk to the nearby Descent of the Ganges or Arjuna’s Penance, a giant open-air rock relief measuring 29 by 13 meters. It depicts the story of the descent of the sacred river Ganges from the heavens to the earth, led by King Bhagiratha.
• After admiring the rock art, you will proceed to Krishna’s Butter Ball, a curious balancing rock that defies gravity and logic.
• By now, you must be hungry and ready for lunch. You can choose from a variety of restaurants and cafes in Mahabalipuram that offer Indian, continental, and seafood cuisines.
• After lunch, you can relax and enjoy the Mahabalipuram Beach, which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the town.
• By evening, you can head back to Chennai by cab, or extend your stay in Mahabalipuram and explore more of its heritage and culture.

Highlight’s of Chennai to Mahabalipuram One day Trip By cab

• Duration: Total Duration Morning 07.00 am to 7.00 pm (12 hr). (Full-Day Chennai To Mahabalipuram One day Trip By cab
• Private Cab )Not Shared)
• Experienced Cab Drivers.
• AC Cab
• Pickup & Drop From Home / Hotel From Chennai.
• Driving along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) and enjoying the views of the Bay of Bengal and the coastal attractions.
• Visiting the Shore Temple, one of the oldest structural temples in South India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admiring its granite architecture and carvings.
• Exploring the Pancha Rathas, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable example of monolithic rock-cut architecture, and learning about the different styles of temple architecture.
• Witnessing the Descent of the Ganges or Arjuna’s Penance, a giant open-air rock relief that depicts the story of the sacred river Ganges and the hero Arjuna.
• Marveling at Krishna’s Butter Ball, a curious balancing rock that defies gravity and logic, and posing for some fun photos.
• Relishing the delicious food and drinks at the various restaurants and cafes in Mahabalipuram, and sampling the local specialties like seafood and filter coffee.
• Relaxing and enjoying the Mahabalipuram Beach, which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the town, and indulging in some water sports and sunbathing.
• Visiting the nearby attractions like the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, the Seashell Museum, and the Tiger Cave, and discovering more about the history and culture of the town.
• Opting for a night safari at the Crocodile Bank, where you can see the nocturnal behaviour of the reptiles and learn more about their conservation.

Itinerary of One day trip To Mahabalipuram From Chennai By Car

The pick-up will be from Chennai 7.00 am and 9.00 am

Your location in Chennai will be drop off between 7.00 pm.

Package Cost of One day Trip From Chennai To Mahabalipuram by Private cab

What is Including and Excluding in Chennai To Mahabalipuram One day Trip by cab

Including Package

• Pick-Up And Drop From Hotel Or Home
• Selected Cab Charges.
• Driver Charges.
• Toll Charges.
• Parking Charges.

Excluding Package

• Multiple Pickup And Drop.
• Accommodation.
• Food (Lunch, Breakfast, or any Food.)
• Entry Fee. (Some Places Charge Entry Fee.

How to Book One day Chennai To Mahabalipuram Trip By Private cab

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Things to do & Must see places to Visit Mahabalipuram: Visit during Chennai To Mahabalipuram One day Tour By cab

Shore Temple

The Shore Temple is one of the oldest structural temples in South India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located on the shore of the Bay of Bengal in Mahabalipuram, about 60 km from Chennai. It was built by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II in the 8th century CE.

Location

The Shore Temple is situated on the eastern edge of Mahabalipuram, near the beach. It is easily accessible by road from Chennai and other nearby towns. The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, about 29 km away. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 55 km away.

Timing/Entry Fee

The Shore Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The entry fee is INR 10 for Indians, INR 340 for foreigners, and free for children below 15 years. There is also a nominal fee for camera and video.

Things to Do

• Admire the granite architecture and carvings of the temple complex, which consists of three shrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and a reclining Vishnu. The main shrine faces the east and has a pyramidal tower. The other two shrines face the west and have smaller towers. The temple is also known for its intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, such as the Nataraja (dancing Shiva), the Durga (goddess of war), and the Somaskanda (Shiva with his consort Parvati and son Skanda).
• Enjoy the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal and the beach from the temple premises. The temple is surrounded by a wall and a moat, and has a stone gateway on the western side. The temple is also illuminated at night, creating a stunning sight.
• Visit the nearby attractions, such as the Pancha Rathas, the Arjuna’s Penance, the Krishna’s Butter Ball, and the Mahabalipuram Beach, which are all within walking distance from the temple.

Significance

The Shore Temple is a symbol of the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region from the 3rd to the 9th century CE. The temple is one of the earliest examples of structural temple architecture in South India, and reflects the influence of both the Dravidian and the Buddhist styles. The Shore Temple is also a testimony of the maritime trade and commerce that flourished between India and Southeast Asia during the Pallava period. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is part of the group of monuments known as the Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments.

Pancha Rathas

The Pancha Rathas, also known as the Five Rathas or the Pandava Rathas, are another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable example of monolithic rock-cut architecture. They are located in Mahabalipuram, about 1 km from the Shore Temple. They were carved out of a single large boulder during the reign of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I in the 7th century CE.

Location

The Pancha Rathas are situated in a sandy compound in Mahabalipuram, near the lighthouse. They are easily accessible by road from Chennai and other nearby towns. The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, about 29 km away. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 55 km away.

Timing/Entry Fee

The Pancha Rathas are open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The entry fee is INR 10 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners, and free for children below 15 years. There is also a nominal fee for camera and video.

Things to Do

• Explore the five rathas or chariots, which are named after the Pandava brothers and their wife Draupadi from the Mahabharata epic. They are Dharmaraja Ratha, Bhima Ratha, Arjuna Ratha, Nakula-Sahadeva Ratha, and Draupadi Ratha. They display different styles of temple architecture, such as the Nagara, the Dravida, and the Vesara. They are also adorned with sculptures of gods, goddesses, animals, and humans.
• Admire the craftsmanship and skill of the Pallava sculptors, who carved the rathas out of a single large boulder without any mortar or joints. The rathas are incomplete, as they were never consecrated or used for worship. They are considered as models or prototypes of the structural temples that were later built by the Pallavas and other dynasties.
• Visit the nearby attractions, such as the Shore Temple, the Arjuna’s Penance, the Krishna’s Butter Ball, and the Mahabalipuram Beach, which are all within walking distance from the rathas.

Significance

The Pancha Rathas are a testimony of the artistic and architectural excellence of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region from the 3rd to the 9th century CE. The rathas are one of the earliest examples of monolithic rock-cut architecture in India, and reflect the influence of both the Hindu and the Buddhist traditions. The Pancha Rathas are also a showcase of the diversity and variety of temple architecture in South India, and have inspired many later temples and monuments. The rathas are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and are part of the group of monuments known as the Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments.

Arjuna’s Penance

Arjuna’s Penance, also known as the Descent of the Ganges or the Bhagiratha’s Penance, is a giant open-air rock relief measuring 29 by 13 meters. It is located in Mahabalipuram, about 500 meters from the Shore Temple. It was carved on two massive boulders during the reign of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I in the 7th century CE.

Location

Arjuna’s Penance is situated on the west side of Mahabalipuram, near the bus stand. It is easily accessible by road from Chennai and other nearby towns. The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, about 29 km away. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 55 km away.

Timing/Entry Fee

Arjuna’s Penance is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The entry fee is INR 10 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners, and free for children below 15 years. There is also a nominal fee for camera and video.

Things to Do

• Witness the story of the descent of the sacred river Ganges from the heavens to the earth, led by King Bhagiratha. The relief depicts the scene where the Ganges is falling from the matted locks of Shiva, who agreed to break the force of the river with his hair. The relief also shows the various gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and animals that witnessed the event.
• Marvel at the story of Arjuna, the hero of the Mahabharata, performing a penance to obtain a boon from Shiva. The relief depicts the scene where Arjuna is standing on one leg, holding a bow and arrow, and meditating on Shiva. The relief also shows the various sages, ascetics, and animals that surrounded Arjuna.
• Enjoy the intricate details and figures of the relief, which is considered as one of the largest and finest rock-cut sculptures in the world. The relief is full of life and movement, and showcases the skill and imagination of the Pallava sculptors. The relief is also a masterpiece of perspective and proportion, and creates a sense of depth and dimension.
• Visit the nearby attractions, such as the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas, the Krishna’s Butter Ball, and the Mahabalipuram Beach, which are all within walking distance from the relief.

Significance

Arjuna’s Penance is a symbol of the religious and cultural diversity of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region from the 3rd to the 9th century CE. The relief is a fusion of both the Hindu and the Buddhist traditions, and depicts the stories of both the Mahabharata and the Puranas. The Arjuna’s Penance is also a representation of the natural and social environment of the Pallava period, and depicts the flora and fauna of the region, as well as the people and their activities. The relief is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is part of the group of monuments known as the Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments.

Krishna’s Butter Ball

Krishna’s Butter Ball, also known as Vaan Irai Kal and Krishna’s Gigantic Butterball, is a gigantic balancing rock, granite-boulder resting on a short incline in the historical coastal resort town of Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu state of India. It is part of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the seventh- and eighth-century CE as Hindu religious monuments by the Pallava dynasty.

Location

Krishna’s Butter Ball is situated on the west side of Mahabalipuram, near the bus stand. It is easily accessible by road from Chennai and other nearby towns. The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, about 29 km away. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 55 km away.

Timing/Entry Fee

Krishna’s Butter Ball is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. There is no entry fee for visiting the rock.

Things to Do

• Marvel at the curious phenomenon of the rock that defies gravity and logic. The 250-ton granite boulder rests on a short incline and seems to be ready to roll down any moment, but it has been in the same position for over 1200 years. It is named after Krishna, the butter-loving god, who is believed to have dropped it from the sky.
• Pose for some fun and creative photos with the rock. Many visitors try to push the rock, or pretend to hold it up, or lean against it, or sit under it. The rock offers a great opportunity for some memorable and amusing pictures.
• Visit the nearby attractions, such as the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas, the Arjuna’s Penance, and the Mahabalipuram Beach, which are all within walking distance from the rock.

Significance

Krishna’s Butter Ball is a symbol of the artistic and architectural excellence of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region from the 3rd to the 9th century CE. The rock is one of the earliest examples of monolithic rock-cut architecture in India, and reflects the influence of both the Hindu and the Buddhist traditions. The Krishna’s Butter Ball is also a showcase of the natural and social environment of the Pallava period, and depicts the flora and fauna of the region, as well as the people and their activities. The rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is part of the group of monuments known as the Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments.

Mahabalipuram Beach

Mahabalipuram Beach, also known as Mamallapuram Beach, is a scenic beach along the Bay of Bengal in the town of Mahabalipuram, about 60 km from Chennai. The beach is famous for its golden sand, clear water, and historical monuments. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu.

Location

Mahabalipuram Beach is located on the eastern edge of Mahabalipuram, near the Shore Temple. It is easily accessible by road from Chennai and other nearby towns. The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, about 29 km away. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 55 km away.

Timing/Entry Fee

Mahabalipuram Beach is open from sunrise to sunset every day. There is no entry fee for visiting the beach.

Things to Do

• Relax and enjoy the sun, sand and sea at the beach. The beach has golden sand and clear water, and offers activities like surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. You can also visit the nearby attractions like the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, the Seashell Museum, and the Tiger Cave.
• Admire the historical monuments and sculptures at the beach. The beach is adjacent to the world-famous Mahabalipuram Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest structural temples in South India. The temple complex consists of three shrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and a reclining Vishnu, built with granite blocks and sculptures. The temple is also known for its intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
• Explore the other monuments and attractions in Mahabalipuram, which are all within walking distance from the beach. You can visit the Pancha Rathas, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable example of monolithic rock-cut architecture. You can also witness the Descent of the Ganges or Arjuna’s Penance, a giant open-air rock relief that depicts the story of the sacred river Ganges and the hero Arjuna. You can also marvel at Krishna’s Butter Ball, a curious balancing rock that defies gravity and logic.

Significance

Mahabalipuram Beach is a symbol of the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region from the 3rd to the 9th century CE. The beach is a testimony of the maritime trade and commerce that flourished between India and Southeast Asia during the Pallava period. The Mahabalipuram Beach is also a fusion of both the Hindu and the Buddhist traditions, and depicts the stories of both the Mahabharata and the Puranas. The beach is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is part of the group of monuments known as the Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments.

Dakshin Chitra

Dakshin Chitra, meaning “a picture of the south”, is a living-history museum and a cultural centre of heritage, art, architecture, crafts and performing arts of South India. It is located on the East Coast Road, about 25 km from Chennai. It is a project of the Madras Craft Foundation, a non-profit organisation founded by Deborah Thiagarajan.

Location

Dakshin Chitra is situated on the East Coast Road, near Muttukadu. It is easily accessible by road from Chennai and other nearby towns. The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, about 23 km away. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 35 km away.

Timing/Entry Fee

Dakshin Chitra is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day, except on Tuesdays and Diwali. The entry fee is INR 100 – INR 120 for adults, INR 50 for students (13-18 years), INR 250 for foreign adults, and INR 70 for foreign students. There is also a nominal fee for camera and video.

Things to Do

• Explore the 18 authentic historical houses from the four southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The houses are reconstructed with original materials and display the architecture, art, lifestyles, crafts and culture of the regions. You can also interact with the artisans and craftsmen who demonstrate their skills and explain their traditions.
• Enjoy the various cultural performances and workshops that are held regularly at the museum. You can watch folk dances, puppet shows, music concerts, theatre plays, and other forms of art and entertainment. You can also participate in various workshops and learn about pottery, painting, weaving, basket making, and other crafts.
• Visit the other attractions and facilities at the museum. You can browse through the library, the art gallery, the craft shop, and the souvenir kiosk. You can also dine at the restaurant or the café, which offer a variety of cuisines and beverages. You can also relax at the amphitheatre, the playground, or the garden.

Significance

Dakshin Chitra is a symbol of the diversity and richness of the south Indian culture and heritage. It is a living museum that showcases the history, traditions, and values of the people of the region. Dakshin Chitra is also a platform for the promotion and preservation of the indigenous arts and crafts of the region. It is also a centre for education and awareness, where visitors can learn and appreciate the various aspects of the south Indian culture and heritage.

Crocodile Bank

Crocodile Bank, officially known as the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology, is a reptile zoo and a conservation centre located on the East Coast Road, near Mahabalipuram. It was founded by the renowned herpetologist Romulus Whitaker in 1976, with the aim of saving India’s dwindling crocodile population. Today, it is one of the largest reptile zoos in the world, and houses over 2500 animals, including 15 species of crocodiles, 10 species of turtles, 3 species of snakes, and 1 species of lizard.

Location

Crocodile Bank is situated on the East Coast Road, near Muttukadu, about 25 km from Chennai and 14 km from Mahabalipuram. It is easily accessible by road from Chennai and other nearby towns. The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, about 23 km away. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 35 km away.

Timing/Entry Fee

Crocodile Bank is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day, except on Mondays. The entry fee is INR 60 for adults, INR 30 for children (below 10 years), and INR 200 for night safari adults, and INR 100 for night safari children. There is also a nominal fee for camera and video.

Things to Do

• Observe and learn about the various reptiles and their habitats at the zoo. You can see different species of crocodiles, such as the mugger, the gharial, the saltwater crocodile, the Nile crocodile, and the dwarf crocodile. You can also see other reptiles, such as the Komodo dragon, the Aldabra giant tortoise, the Indian saw-scaled viper, the Asian water monitor, and the king cobra.
• Watch the feeding sessions and the crocodile talks that are held regularly at the zoo. You can witness the crocodiles being fed by the zoo staff, and learn more about their behaviour, diet, and conservation. You can also listen to the crocodile talks, where the zoo staff explain the facts and myths about the crocodiles, and answer your questions.
• Experience the night safari, where you can see the nocturnal behaviour of the reptiles, and learn more about their adaptation, ecology, and threats. You can also see the crocodiles glowing in the dark, due to the reflection of light from their eyes. The night safari is held from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
• Visit the other attractions and facilities at the zoo. You can browse through the library, the art gallery, the craft shop, and the souvenir kiosk. You can also dine at the restaurant or the café, which offer a variety of cuisines and beverages. You can also relax at the amphitheatre, the playground, or the garden.

Significance

Crocodile Bank is a symbol of the conservation and awareness of reptiles and their habitats. It is a living museum that showcases the history, traditions, and values of the people of the region. It is also a platform for the promotion and preservation of the indigenous arts and crafts of the region. Crocodile Bank is also a centre for education and research, where visitors can learn and appreciate the various aspects of the reptile biology and ecology.

FAQ’s

Conclusion:

A one day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram by cab is a convenient and comfortable way to explore the best attractions of this historic town. You can enjoy the scenic drive along the East Coast Road, and visit the world-famous monuments, sculptures, and beaches of Mahabalipuram. Learn about the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Pallava dynasty, and witness the fusion of both the Hindu and the Buddhist traditions. You can also indulge in some delicious food and drinks, and relax and unwind at the end of the day. A one day trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram by cab is a memorable and hassle-free trip that you will cherish for a lifetime.