Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram: Pallava stone art: 3-day itinerary

3 daysBest time: Nov–FebHeritageBeaches

Day 1

6:30 AMShore TempleCome at sunrise for soft light on the sea temple Map
9:00 AMPancha RathasFive chariot-shaped temples cut from rock Map
11:00 AMArjuna's PenanceGiant rock carving, also called Arjuna's Penance Map
4:00 PMKrishna's ButterballHuge balancing boulder; a fun photo spot Map

Day 2

8:00 AMMahabalipuram LighthouseClimb for views over the town and coast Map
9:00 AMMahishasuramardini MandapaCave temple with a fine Durga carving Map
11:00 AMTiger CaveRock shrine with tiger heads, by the sea Map
3:00 PMMadras Crocodile BankCrocodile and reptile park on the coast road Map

Day 3

8:30 AMKailasanathar TempleOldest temple in town, carved in sandstone Map
10:00 AMEkambareswarar TempleTall gateway tower and a sacred mango tree Map
11:30 AMKamakshi Amman TempleMain goddess temple of Kanchipuram Map
3:30 PMVaradharaja Perumal TempleBig Vishnu temple; shop for silk sarees after Map

What a 3-day trip to Mahabalipuram costs

Budget: about ₹2,800–₹6,300 per person
Mid-range: about ₹7,000–₹14,800 per person
Comfort: about ₹16,300–₹32,500 per person

A rough estimate for 2 adults sharing a room: stay, food, local travel and entry tickets, from typical price ranges (not live prices). Getting to Mahabalipuram is not included.

Use this plan

Pick your dates in Turkart. It adds the train booking reminders, permits, checklist and group expenses for you.

Start with this plan

Timings are suggestions. Check opening days, permits and road conditions before you travel.