Located on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is an ancient historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This town, famous for its stone carvings and seafront Shore Temple, is just about 60 kilometers away from the bustling city of Chennai.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist flying into Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram offers a plethora of sights and sounds. In this guide, we will explore the various options to reach Mahabalipuram from Chennai, covering road, train, and air travel.
1. By Road: A Scenic Drive Along the Coast
Self-Drive Experience
One of the most popular ways to get to Mahabalipuram is by driving along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR). The drive can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. This route not only offers splendid views of the coastline but also has several spots worth stopping at, such as the Dakshina Chitra Museum, where you can experience living traditions of art, folk performing arts, craft, and architecture of South India.
Cab Services
For those who prefer not to drive, app-based taxi services like Ola and Uber offer convenient options to book a cab from anywhere in Chennai. The ride is comfortable and the fare varies depending on the type of car you choose. It’s advisable to book a round trip to avoid the hassle of finding a cab for the return journey.
Buses: Economical and Frequent
The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates regular buses from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, making this a budget-friendly option. Buses depart from various points in the city such as the Koyambedu Bus Terminal and Thiruvanmiyur. The journey is economical and buses typically run every 30 minutes, making it a viable option for everyone.
2. By Train: A Limited But Quaint Option
Chennai to Chengalpattu by Train
Though there is no direct train from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, one can travel by train up to Chengalpattu and then switch to a local taxi or bus to reach Mahabalipuram. Trains are frequent between Chennai and Chengalpattu, with options ranging from local electric multiple units (EMUs) to other passenger trains. The journey to Chengalpattu usually takes about an hour.
Chengalpattu to Mahabalipuram
Upon reaching Chengalpattu, one can either take a local bus or hire a taxi to cover the remaining 29 kilometers to Mahabalipuram. The ride takes about 30-45 minutes and is quite scenic, passing through rural landscapes and small towns.
Tamil Nadu Travel Packages:
- 3 Days Mahabalipuram Chennai Itinerary
- 6 Days Mahabalipuram Kanchipuram Pondicherry Tour
- 6 Days Madurai Rameshwaram Kanyakumari Trip
- 6 Days Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Tour
3. By Air: For International and Far-Flung Tourists
Arriving at Chennai International Airport
For international tourists or those coming from far off places, Chennai International Airport serves as the nearest airport to Mahabalipuram. From the airport, one can hire a taxi directly to Mahabalipuram or get to the city center and follow the road or train travel options as described above.
Helicopter Rides
For a unique and luxurious experience, some services offer helicopter rides from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. This is by far the quickest and most thrilling way to reach the historic site, offering aerial views of the coastline and the region.
Travel Tips
Regardless of the mode of transport chosen, it’s important to plan your trip in advance, especially during the tourist season from November to February. Always carry bottled water, sunblock, and hats to protect against the tropical sun. Be aware of local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
Below the table summarizing the important details on how to reach Mahabalipuram from Chennai via different modes of transport:
| Mode of Transport | Starting Point in Chennai | Journey Time | Approximate Cost | Frequency | Additional Info |
| Self-Drive | Anywhere in Chennai | 1 – 1.5 hours | Fuel cost | At traveler’s convenience | Scenic route via ECR |
| Taxi | Anywhere in Chennai | 1 – 1.5 hours | ₹1200 – ₹1800 | Available on-demand | Convenient for direct and comfortable travel |
| Bus | Koyambedu, Thiruvanmiyur | 1.5 – 2 hours | ₹50 – ₹150 | Every 30 minutes | Economical, regular service |
| Train (via Chengalpattu) | Chennai Central/Chennai Egmore | About 2 hours | ₹45 – ₹100 (plus taxi/bus fare from Chengalpattu to Mahabalipuram) | Multiple trains daily | No direct train to Mahabalipuram |
| Air | Chennai International Airport | Depends on subsequent road travel | Varies by taxi or rental car | Flights to Chennai from multiple locations | Best for international or distant tourists |
| Helicopter | Chennai | 30 minutes | Premium price | On-demand | Fastest, most scenic option |
Conclusion
Reaching Mahabalipuram from Chennai is convenient, offering multiple options tailored to different needs and preferences. Whether you choose the independence of a scenic drive, the economy of a bus ride, the comfort of a train journey, or the luxury of a helicopter ride, each mode of transport offers its own unique experiences. Mahabalipuram’s rich heritage and natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination, easily accessible from Chennai and promising an enriching travel experience.
Recommended Reads:
- 10 Most Popular Temples in Mahabalipuram
- Mahabalipuram Famous Attractions to Visit
- Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram: Complete Travel Guide
- Top 10 Destinations to Visit Near Mahabalipuram
- Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu in February
- Tamil Nadu Destinations to See in March
- Famous Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu
- Best Time to Visit Tamil Nadu
- Tamil Nadu Places to Visit for Honeymoon
