Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram tickets: The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is one of India’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Situated on the Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, this historic complex features remarkable rock-cut caves, monolithic temples, massive relief sculptures, and early stone temples dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries CE.
A single entry ticket allows visitors to explore all major monuments, making it one of South India’s most enriching cultural experiences.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), Tamil Nadu, India |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Site (Declared in 1984) |
| Timings | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (All days) |
| Entry Ticket | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreign nationals) |
| Children Entry | Free for children below 15 years |
| Main Attractions | Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance |
| Architecture Style | Pallava-era rock-cut and structural monuments |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Why Mahabalipuram Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recognized by UNESCO in 1984, Mahabalipuram represents a defining phase in Indian architectural history. Built during the reign of Pallava king Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla), the monuments illustrate the shift from rock-cut architecture to free-standing stone temples.
The site uniquely combines mythology, religion, artistry, and coastal geography, reflecting the Pallavas’ maritime influence and cultural legacy.
Monuments Included in the Mahabalipuram Complex
| Monument | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Shore Temple | Early structural stone temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal; dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu; built in the early 8th century using granite blocks. |
| Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas) | Five monolithic temples carved from single granite rocks; named after the Pandavas and Draupadi; early models of Dravidian temple architecture. |
| Arjuna’s Penance (Descent of the Ganges) | One of the world’s largest open-air rock reliefs depicting Arjuna’s penance and the descent of the River Ganga with detailed mythological figures. |
| Krishna’s Butter Ball | Naturally balanced massive granite boulder on a slope; linked to legends of Lord Krishna; popular photography spot. |
| Rock-Cut Cave Temples (Mandapas) | Includes Varaha Cave, Mahishasuramardini Cave, and Krishna Mandapa; known for intricate bas-reliefs carved directly into rock faces. |
Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram tickets price
- Indian Nationals: ₹40
- SAARC & BIMSTEC Countries: ₹40
- Foreign Nationals: ₹600
- Children below 15 years: Free
One ticket is valid for all major monuments within the complex on the same day.
Ticket site
Visit the official website.
How to Book Mahabalipuram Monument Tickets
Online Booking
Tickets can be booked through the official ASI e-ticket portal and ONDC-enabled platforms. Online booking helps skip queues and may offer small discounts.
Offline Booking
Tickets are available at physical counters near major monument entrances. Visitors must retain the ticket to enter multiple locations.
Read more: Tholkappia poonga online booking
Visitor Information
- Approximate Visit Duration: 2 hours
- Entry Allowed For: All age groups
- Layout: Outdoor heritage site
- Seating Arrangement: Standing / limited resting areas
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Pet Friendly: No
Read more: Muttukadu Boat House Ticket online
Prohibited Items Inside the Monument Complex
The following items are not permitted:
- Outside food and beverages
- Lighters and matchboxes
- Flammable or explosive materials
- Drones
- Tripods
- Smoking materials
Best Time to Visit Mahabalipuram
- Best Season: October to March
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon
These times offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better photography conditions.
Mamallapuram Indian Dance Festival
Held annually from late December to mid-January, the Mamallapuram Indian Dance Festival showcases classical Indian dance forms at the Shore Temple, creating a spectacular cultural experience against a historic backdrop.
New Attraction Near the Monuments: Mamallapuram Glow Garden
Located at Maragatha Poonga, the upcoming Mamallapuram Glow Garden offers evening entertainment after monument hours. Planned attractions include glow-in-the-dark sculptures, toy train rides, indoor themed gardens, an amphitheatre, and family entertainment zones.
Nearby Attractions
| Nearby Attraction | Distance from Monuments | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Mahabalipuram Beach | ~500 m | Scenic shoreline, sunrise views, relaxing walks |
| Tiger Cave | ~5 km | Rock-cut cave temple with Pallava-era carvings |
| Crocodile Bank | ~15 km | Reptile zoo with crocodiles, turtles, and snakes |
| India Seashell Museum | ~2 km | Large collection of seashells and marine artifacts |
| Covelong (Kovalam) Beach | ~10 km | Water sports, calm beach atmosphere |
FAQs
Is one ticket valid for all monuments in Mahabalipuram?
Yes, a single combined ticket allows entry to all major monuments within the complex on the same day.
What are the visiting hours for the monuments?
The monuments are open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Is entry free for children?
Yes, children below 15 years of age can enter free when accompanied by an adult.
Is photography allowed inside the monument complex?
Yes, photography is allowed, but drones and tripods are not permitted.
Is climbing or touching the monuments allowed?
No, climbing or touching the rock-cut monuments is strictly prohibited.
What is the best time to visit Mahabalipuram monuments?
Early morning or late afternoon between October and March is ideal to avoid heat and crowds.
Are food and drinks allowed inside the monuments?
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the monument premises.
About The Author
