Chennai to Mahabalipuram: A Road Trip for the Soul

Tired of the city grind? Longing for some beach therapy and a dose of history? Then buckle up, because we're taking a road trip from Chennai to Mahabalipuram! This coastal escape is perfect for a weekend getaway with your squad, a solo exploration, or even a romantic rendezvous.

But first, the drive. There are three main routes from Chennai to Mahabalipuram by road:
 
1. The ECR (East Coast Road): This is a scenic route offering stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. It's about 60 km and takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic. Make sure to roll down the windows and let the salty breeze kiss your face.

2. GST Road: This is the fastest route, covering 56 km in 1.5 hours. It's ideal if you're short on time.
 
3. OMR (Old Mahabalipuram Road): This is a mix of the scenic and the fast, offering glimpses of the coast and the countryside and is 58 km long and takes around 2 hours to reach.

Image of a clear road on a bright day with a mountain on one side
facade of A temple in Chennai pictured during sunset

Mahabalipuram:
 
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a valuable jewel of Tamil Nadu. Nestled along the coast, this delightful town boasts ancient temples, awe-inspiring rock carvings, and untouched beaches. The numerous temples attract devotees from different parts of the country and unite them with the same feeling of peace and comfort at heart. 

Mahabalipuram Shore Temple: From Chennai to the Mahabalipuram Temple, residents are captivated by the allure of this ancient structure. Erected in the 8th century, it stands as a testament to Dravidian architectural brilliance and is an essential destination for anyone exploring Mahabalipuram.

Five Rathas: These five monolithic rock-cut temples are dedicated to the Pandava brothers and their wife, Draupadi, from the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Mahabalipuram Beach: Soak up the sun on this pristine beach, perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply enjoying the view.

Mahabalipuram temple surrounded by green grass and blue sky in the background
Giant rock balanced on a slope with the blue sky in the background

Krishna's Butterball: This giant rock, precariously balanced on a slope, is a natural wonder that has baffled scientists for centuries.

India Seashell Museum: Discover a fascinating collection of seashells from all over the world, including rare and exotic species.

Arjuna's Penance: This massive bas-relief is considered one of the finest examples of Pallava art.

Raj Park Hotel, Chennai:
 

  • Generously sized and finely furnished rooms featuring breathtaking city vistas
  • Round-the-clock restaurant offering delectable Indian and global dishes
  • The bar is stocked with a wide selection of drinks
  • Spa facility for a soothing massage or pampering treatment
  • Fitness centre to stay in shape
  • Conference halls and meeting rooms for business gatherings or special events

a close up shot of the bar counter at Alchemy, our in-house bar in Chennai - Raj Park Hotel, Chennai

This is just the beginning, Mahabalipuram has so much more to offer, from delicious local cuisine and vibrant markets to charming cafes and historical monuments. Don't be afraid to discover your own hidden gems. After a day of exploring, there's nothing better than relaxing in a luxurious and comfortable hotel. That's where Raj Park Hotel, Chennai, comes in. This 4-star hotel is conveniently located near Marina Beach and offers everything you need for a perfect stay. From Chennai to Mahabalipuram, set out for a journey today and make memories for a lifetime!