Mamallapuram Beach Tours

Mamallapuram Beach showing a sandy beach
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Enjoy the atmosphere of Mahabalipuram's central beach, which is alive with historic temples, stone carving stalls and a thriving backpacker scene.

Join backpackers, sun worshippers and local fishermen at Mamallapuram Beach, a pleasant corner of India's eastern coast that looks out onto the Bay of Bengal. Surf, swim and sunbathe, and then explore the ancient architectural landmarks within walking distance of the sand.

Mahabalipuram locals flock to the cooler temperatures of the beach to escape the region's hot, humid climate. Spend lazy summer days stretched out on a towel and go for a swim in the warm waters. Try your hand at windsurfing, a popular pastime here when the conditions are right. Be aware of occasional strong currents in the water.

Take part in other activities at the beach, which are organized by nearby tourist operators. They include boat rides out into the Bay of Bengal and turtle-spotting walks along the shorefront. Join an evening yoga session and feel the tension leave weary muscles.

Mahabalipuram has a long culture of stone carving, with chiseling techniques passed down through the generations. Purchase handmade stone sculptures at stalls along the beach promenade. You can even learn the trade at a local workshop.

The history of this coastline survives in the remains of ancient buildings dotted along the promenade and in the surrounding locale. They include a Pavallan fort that has been converted into a luxury resort hotel.

Walk to the nearby Shore Temple and admire its grey tiered façade. This structure dates back to the 8th century, making it the area's oldest temple. Among its weathered carvings is a statue of Shiva Lingam, which is found in the central building.

Walk west of Mamallapuram Beach to see the Pancha Rathas and Ganesha Ratha, monolithic tributes to Hindu gods. Hop on a rickshaw to travel a short way up the coast to Tiger Cave, a monument complex hand hewn from coastal rock.

When evening falls, dine in a curry house along the coast and watch the sun setting over the water.

A great to time to visit Mamallapuram Beach is from December until March, when the weather is warm and dry. The seaside destination is located just a short walk from central Mahabalipuram.

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Best Lodging Options Near Mamallapuram Beach

Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram
4.5 out of 5
57, Covelong Road, Kanchipuram District, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Kences Palm Beach, Mamallapuram
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Kences Palm Beach, Mamallapuram
4.5 out of 5
No 53, Devaneri Village, East Coast Rd, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Kences Palm Beach, Mamallapuram
Chariot Beach Resort
Chariot Beach Resort
4 out of 5
Five Rathas Road, Behind Five Rathas Monuments, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Chariot Beach Resort
Kaldan Samudhra Palace
Kaldan Samudhra Palace
3.5 out of 5
ECR, Chengalpattu, TN
Kaldan Samudhra Palace
Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort & Convention Center
Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort & Convention Center
4 out of 5
ECR-OMR Junction, ECR, Poonjeri, Mahabalipuram, Chengalpattu
Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort & Convention Center
InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, an IHG Hotel
InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, an IHG Hotel
5 out of 5
No. 212 East Coast Road, Nemelli Village, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, an IHG Hotel
Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa
Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa
5 out of 5
280 ECR, Vedanamelli, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa
Taj Fisherman's Cove Resort & Spa, Chennai
Taj Fisherman's Cove Resort & Spa, Chennai
5 out of 5
Covelong Beach, Kancheepuram Dist., Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Taj Fisherman's Cove Resort & Spa, Chennai
Lee Crysstal
Lee Crysstal
3 out of 5
2/212 Kovalam Mian Road, Off ECR Highway, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Lee Crysstal
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.