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Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram

Top attractions and must-see spots in Mahabalipuram

Beaches

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Beaches
Kovalam (Covelong) Beach
Originally a small fishing village on the Coromandel Coast, Covelong Beach is now one of the most popular beach resorts in South India, located about 23 km from Mahabalipuram. It is home to a thriving surf culture with schools catering to beginners and experienced surfers, and hosts the annual Covelong Point Surf, Music and Yoga Festival. Olive Ridley turtles also nest along this coastline every year. Best visited between October and March for ideal weather and wave conditions.
Beaches
Mahabalipuram Beach
Famous for its rock-cut temples and sculptures along the shore.
Beaches
Sadras Beach
Sadras Beach is a calm and serene stretch of coastline 13 km from Mahabalipuram, surrounded by casuarina groves with clean sand and a shallow slope that makes it safe for wading. Far less crowded than the main Mahabalipuram beach, it is a good spot for sunrise views and shell collecting. A unique feature is the point where a backwater body merges with the sea during high tides. The nearby Dutch fort ruins add a historical dimension to the visit.

Cultural

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CulturalLandmarks
DakshinaChitra
A living heritage museum near Chennai with authentic relocated South Indian homes from four states, craft demonstrations, and cultural performances.

Landmarks

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National Parks

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National Parks
Crocodile Bank (Madras Crocodile Bank Trust)
India's premier crocodilian conservation centre near Mahabalipuram, home to 17 species including the endangered gharial, established by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker.

Scenic Spots

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Shopping

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Temple

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