Top 10 Famous Temples in Mahabalipuram to Visit

Mahabalipuram, a town in the state of Tamil Nadu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its scenic beauty. The city is filled with numerous ancient structures of great value to Hindu Mythology.

But most popularly, it is known for its temples and monuments, drawing ancient history into the structures, ultimately captivating one’s eye.

Let's explore the most famous temples in Mahabalipuram among the numerous structures; here are the top 10 temples:

1. Shore Temple | Melaimaiur TKM Road

One of the oldest South Indian temples is mesmerising to every traveller. The temple is made from granite. It has three sanctums; two are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 6 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Mahishasura Rock, Open-Air Museum, Mahabalipuram Beach.

2. Varaha Cave temple | Mada Koil Street

Varaha Cave temple was built during the Pallava dynasty back in the 7th century. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in a Vahara form where the Lord lifts Mother Earth.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 6 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places to visit: Tiger Cave, Crocodile Bank, Panch Rathas.

3. Olakkanesvara Temple | Mada Koil Street

The temple was built back in the 18th century. As the temple is located on the hill, it provides a scenic view of the city. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also well known as the Old Lighthouse.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 6 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Sculpture Museum, Krishna’s Butter Ball, Five Rathas.

4. Mukunda Nayanar Temple | East Raja Street

Mukunda Nayanar is known for its intricate carvings and ancient history. It is said that the temple was found buried under 12 feet of sand. The temple offers pleasant vibes to visitors.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 6 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Kaldan Samudhra Palace, Chariot Beach Resort, Mamalla Beach Resort.

5. Krishna Temple | Krishna Cave

It is one of the famous temples in Mahabalipuram as it is located near the beach. The walls of the temple narrate the story of Lord Krish lifting the Govardhan Mountain. Presently it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Best Time to Visit: February to June.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 6 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Tiger Cave, Guindy National Park.

6. Atiranachanda Cave Temple | Krishanankaranai

One of the oldest temples in Mahabalipuram, Atiranachanda Cave Temple is an example of rock excavation. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma in their Trimurti avatar.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 6 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Valayankuttai Ratha, Draupadi Chariot, Mamallapuram Lighthouse.

7. Ganesh Temple | Mada Koil Street

The temple is built on one single rock. Its design belongs to the Pallava dynasty. The temple is guarded by four yalis sculpted into stone pillars and looks like a chariot dedicated to Lord Ganesh.

• Best Time to Visit: January to April.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 8 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Mahishasura Rock, Stupa of Sculptures, India Seashell Museum.

8. Trimurti Cave Temple | Unnamed Lane

Trimurti Cave Temple is one of the popular monuments in Mahabalipuram. The art of the temple is quite appreciated as it flawlessly shows these three shrines - Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 6 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Thirumoorthi Cave, Roya Gopuram, Mamallapuram Hill Park.

9. Arjuna’s Penance | West Raja Street

The penance is a kind of giant rock-cut relief, the largest in the world. The structure depicts the story of Mahabharata when Arjun received the powerful weapon, Pasupata, from Lord Shiva.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 8 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places to Visit: India Seashell Museum, Elephant Statue, lotus Pond View.

10. Sthalasayana Perumal Temple | South Mada Street

Sthalasayana Perumal temple is also well-known as Thirukadalmallai. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Sthalasayana Perumal with his consort Lakshmi as Nilamangai Thayar.

• Best Time to Visit: October and November.
• Temple Timings: 6 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 8:30 pm - Every day.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Queen Art Emporium, Bodhiwoods Resorts, Five Rathas.

Known for its ancient historical structures, the town is a hub of stories. Temples of Mahabalipuram are timeless jewels attracting tourists all over the world. Every temple has its own story, perfectly delivered through the carvings. With the legacy of the 7th and 8th centuries, Mahabalipuram is a must-visit.