An incredible place to explore if you’re interested in history, culture, or just looking for a unique day trip. The rock-cut temples and sculptures are breathtaking, with each monument telling its own story. The craftsmanship is mind-blowing considering how old these structures are, and the scale of some of them is just impressive. The whole site is well maintained, and it’s easy to walk around and take in multiple monuments at your own pace. Early mornings or evenings are the best time to visit since the weather is cooler and the lighting makes the stone carvings even more striking. There are guides available if you want detailed insights, but it’s equally enjoyable to just wander and soak in the atmosphere. Plenty of small shops and eateries are nearby, making it a convenient and enjoyable outing. Whether you’re into photography, history, or just a peaceful cultural experience, Mahabalipuram won’t disappoint.

Very nice temple on the shore of Bay of Bengal. Very elegant as well. It reminds us how capable our ancestors have been to erect such fabulous architecture rich buildings. It is where PM Modi had a meeting with Chinese President Jinping. There is no access to sea/beach from the temple directly. You will have to come out of it and walk around 500m to reach beach. Beach was bit crowdy in December. Car parking is available near to temple but you will have to walk a little to see temple. May be difficult for elderly people. Be cautious while driving on temple road as the people walk there carelessly.

For those with an interest in wildlife and conservation, the Madras Crocodile Bank is a worthwhile and educational destination. It offers a unique opportunity to see a wide array of reptile species, learn about important conservation efforts, and enjoy engaging activities like the night safari. While not a full-day commitment, it is an excellent stop for families traveling along the ECR, especially when combined with other nearby attractions like Mahabalipuram. Highlights and attractions Vast reptile collection: The park houses a large collection of reptiles, including over 15 species of crocodiles and alligators from around the world. You can see endangered species like the saltwater crocodile and gharial. Other species: Beyond the crocodilians, the park features a variety of snakes, turtles, tortoises, and lizards. A separate area is dedicated to snakes, including venomous and non-venomous types. Underwater gharial exhibit: A unique feature allows visitors to see a magnificent gharial swimming effortlessly in a large underwater enclosure with other fish and turtles. Feeding sessions: The park offers feeding demonstrations. On Sunday afternoons, you can witness the feeding of "Jaws III," one of the largest saltwater crocodiles in India. Night safari: For a thrilling experience, the night safari on weekends lets you see the reptiles when they are most active. You are given torches to spot the hundreds of glowing red eyes in the dark. Snake venom extraction: This process is demonstrated by the Irula tribe, providing insight into how venom is collected for producing anti-venom medicines. Guided tours: Knowledgeable guides share interesting stories and facts about the reptiles. Virtual Reality (VR) shows: On weekends and holidays, you can experience VR movies that transport you to the natural habitats of reptiles around the world. Ideal for children: The Croc Bank is particularly popular with families and school groups, as kids enjoy seeing the reptiles up close in a safe environment. Good for short trips: While some reviewers feel the entry price is high for a relatively short visit, most agree it's a good place to spend an hour or two. Well-maintained enclosures: The enclosures are designed to mimic the animals' natural habitats, allowing for safe and close-up viewing. Amenities: The facility includes a canteen for refreshments, a gift shop for souvenirs, and clean washrooms. However, some older reviews noted that toilets were not well-maintained. Accessibility: Located on the ECR, the park is easily accessible by car, bus, or auto-rickshaw. Paid parking is available.

The Five Rathas in Mahabalipuram is one of the most fascinating monuments I have visited and truly deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. These structures are a group of monolithic rock-cut temples dating back to the Pallava dynasty in the 7th century. What makes them unique is that each ratha (chariot-shaped temple) is carved from a single piece of granite, yet all five display different architectural styles. The Pancha Rathas – Dharmaraja Ratha, Bhima Ratha, Arjuna Ratha, Nakula-Sahadeva Ratha, and Draupadi Ratha – are dedicated to the Pandavas and Draupadi from the Mahabharata. Walking around the site, you can admire the fine detailing on the pillars, walls, and sculptures, especially the beautifully carved animals like the lion and elephant. The elephant statue beside the Nakula-Sahadeva Ratha is a major attraction for visitors. The site is well-maintained, and there is plenty of space to walk around and click pictures. It can get crowded during peak hours, so mornings or evenings are the best time to visit. Entry is through a ticket, and combining it with nearby attractions like Shore Temple and Arjuna’s Penance makes the trip even more enriching. Overall, a must-visit place for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone exploring Mahabalipuram.

We had good times there yesterday. It’s a beautiful rock balanced by gravity. It is intact for decades now and still holds up well. It’s a beautiful place and maintained by Archeological department of India. There is an entry fee of R/s.40 per adult and there are no designated parking lots but the place is beautiful and breathtaking. Must visit place.

Arjuna’s Penance is a massive open-air rock relief in Mahabalipuram, carved in the 7th century. It depicts scenes from Hindu mythology, including Arjuna’s penance to please Lord Shiva. The intricate carvings feature gods, sages, animals, and river scenes in amazing detail. It’s one of India’s finest ancient stone carvings, standing 43 feet high and 96 feet long. A must-see spot in Mahabalipuram, especially in the early morning or evening light.