Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram was established during the Pallava dynasty was once a popular trade city. It was a flourishing and vibrant center of activity and became an important port for many traders. The great Pallava rulers left behind a treasure of history, culture, and architecture in the form of stunning monoliths and rock temples, and sculptures dedicated to the various Gods and Goddesses. 

The history of this architecturally rich town goes even beyond the 7th & 8th centuries and the Pallava dynasty. The artifacts that predate the birth of Jesus Christ have also been found here alongside the settlements belonging to the pre-Sangam era. Various notable historians are unclear about the exact date of origin and roots of this famous tourist destination.

Famous for its architectural wonders this historic town has many monuments revering the various Gods and holy scriptures of the Hindu religion, most of them are in the form of temples, rock-cut caves, and other stone inscriptions. These monuments and rock structures are classified into five major categories - Mandapas or cave temples, the Rathas or chariot temples, rock relief structures, structural temples, and excavations. The Rathas are very famous among the tourist, and the most famous among these are the Panch Rathas, dedicated to the 5 Pandava brothers from the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

• You cannot miss Krishna's butterball which is a gigantic granite Boulder, it measures 6m high and 5m wide and weighs over 250 tons. It is said to be in the same position for over 1200 years, centuries ago seven elephants were employed to move it but they were of no use.
• The famous Five Rathas are an exemplary set of rock temples. They showcase the evolution of Dravidian-style architecture.
• One of the largest in the whole world, the Arjuna's Penance is an enormous rock-cut relief. 
• Mahabalipuram beach is beautiful, white, and clean, and it is full of tourists every day.

• Alcohol is strictly prohibited inside the temple complex.
• Restrain yourself from touching Krishna’s butterball, maybe you pull off something that seven elephants couldn’t.
• Wear comfortable clothes during your visit here.

The best time to visit this historic town of Mahabalipuram would be during the winter season. Because the local weather is quite humid and it will not be comfortable for you.

• Sculpture Museum
• Mamallapuram Light House
• Pilgrimage Beach
• India Seashell Museum

• Krishna’s butterball is said to be in the same position for over 1200 years, centuries ago seven elephants were employed to move it but they were of no use.
• One of the largest in the whole world, the Arjuna's Penance is an enormous rock-cut relief that is also present here.
• It is a UNESCO world heritage site.