Can We Visit Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram in One Day Trip
If you’re wondering, “Can we visit Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram in one day?” the answer is yes. These two iconic destinations in Tamil Nadu are close enough to Chennai and to each other, making them ideal for a one-day sightseeing trip.
Kanchipuram, known as the City of a Thousand Temples, is famous for its ancient temples, silk sarees, and rich spiritual heritage. Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage destination, is renowned for its magnificent rock-cut monuments, shore temples, and beautiful beaches.
With an early morning start and a well-planned itinerary, you can comfortably explore the major attractions in both places in a single day.
Distance and Travel Time
- Chennai to Kanchipuram: Approx. 75 km (2 hours)
- Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram: Approx. 65 km (1.5 hours)
- Mahabalipuram to Chennai: Approx. 60 km (1.5 hours)
Total travel distance is approximately 200–220 km, making it suitable for a full-day road trip.
Top Attractions Covered in the Chennai to Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram One Day Tour
Begin your journey early to maximize sightseeing time.
Your journey begins with pickup from your preferred location in Chennai. Relax in a comfortable AC vehicle as you travel towards Mahabalipuram via the scenic East Coast Road (ECR).
Arrive at the iconic Shore Temple, one of India’s oldest structural stone temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy its magnificent architecture and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
Spend some time at Mahabalipuram Beach, where you can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, capture memorable photographs, and admire the beautiful coastline.
Explore the famous Pancha Rathas, a remarkable group of monolithic rock-cut temples carved during the Pallava dynasty. Each ratha showcases unique architectural styles and intricate stone carvings.
Continue to Arjuna’s Penance, one of the world’s largest open-air rock relief sculptures. The impressive carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology and demonstrate the artistic excellence of the Pallava period.
Visit the famous Krishna’s Butter Ball, a massive naturally balanced granite boulder that has fascinated visitors for centuries and is one of Mahabalipuram’s most photographed attractions.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense) before continuing your journey.
After lunch, begin your drive to Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India and renowned as the City of a Thousand Temples.
Seek the blessings of Sri Kamakshi Amman Temple, one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in South India and a significant pilgrimage destination dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi.
Proceed to the magnificent Sri Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing the Earth element. Admire its towering gopuram, vast temple complex, and sacred mango tree.
Visit the historic Sri Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest surviving temple in Kanchipuram, celebrated for its exquisite sandstone architecture and intricate Pallava-era sculptures.
Conclude your temple visits at the grand Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple, one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu and an architectural masterpiece of the Vijayanagara period.
Begin your comfortable return drive to Chennai after completing your sightseeing.
Arrive safely at your preferred drop-off location in Chennai, marking the end of a memorable day filled with history, spirituality, and cultural exploration.
Places Covered
- Mahabalipuram Seashore temple
- Seashore Beach
- Arjunar Penance
- Pancha Rathas
- Butter Ball
- Kanchi Kamatchi Amman temple
- Ekambareswarar temple
- Kailasanathar temple
- Varadharaja Perumal temple
Chennai to Mahabalipuram Kanchipuram One Day Tour Package Price
| Car Type | Charges | Includes |
|---|---|---|
|
Swift Dzire AC Car |
₹5000 |
Fuel, Driver Bata, Tollgate & Parking |
|
Etios AC Car |
₹5000 |
Fuel, Driver Bata, Tollgate & Parking |
|
Ertiga AC Car |
₹6500 |
Fuel, Driver Bata, Tollgate & Parking |
|
Innova AC Car |
₹6500 |
Fuel, Driver Bata, Tollgate & Parking |
|
Crysta AC Car |
₹7500 |
Fuel, Driver Bata, Tollgate & Parking |
The ideal time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. During summer, it is advisable to start early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.
- Start your trip before 6:00 AM.
- Wear comfortable footwear, as you’ll walk around temple complexes and monuments.
- Carry drinking water, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Dress modestly for temple visits.
- Keep a camera or smartphone ready to capture the beautiful architecture.
Why Choose Rajamanickam Tours and Travels?
Rajamanickam Tours and Travels offers reliable and comfortable one-day tour packages from Chennai to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram. Our services include:
- Pickup and drop from your location in Chennai
- Comfortable AC Cars, SUVs, and Tempo Travellers
- Professional and experienced drivers
- Flexible departure timings
- Family, corporate, and group tour packages
- Affordable pricing with transparent service
Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or colleagues, we ensure a safe, comfortable, and memorable journey.
Book Your Chennai to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram One-Day Tour
A Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram one-day tour from Chennai is an excellent choice for travellers who want to experience Tamil Nadu’s spiritual heritage and UNESCO-listed monuments in a single trip.
Book your tour with Rajamanickam Tours and Travels for a hassle-free journey, comfortable transportation, and a well-planned itinerary that lets you make the most of your day.