Chennai to Mahabalipuram by Urbania
A UNESCO World Heritage coastal town just down the East Coast Road — rock-cut temples, the Shore Temple and beach shacks make it Chennai's favourite one-day escape.
A glimpse from our recent trips across this route.
01The Route
Getting there
Via ECR (East Coast Road) — one of the most scenic drives in Tamil Nadu, hugging the Bay of Bengal.
Top highlights
- Shore Temple
- Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas)
- Arjuna's Penance bas-relief
- Krishna's Butter Ball
- Mahabalipuram Beach
- India Seashell Museum
02Suggested Itinerary
The 1-day plan we recommend
A starting point — swap halts, add temples, extend a day.
Morning: pickup in Chennai, scenic ECR drive with a breakfast stop
Late morning: Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance and Krishna's Butter Ball
Afternoon: Pancha Rathas, beach time and seafood lunch
Evening: optional stop at DakshinaChitra or Crocodile Bank, return to Chennai
Combine Mahabalipuram with Kanchipuram or DakshinaChitra for a full heritage day within the same 300 km billing.
03Fare Estimate
Chennai to Mahabalipuram — all five variants
Estimates at minimum billing. Final quote in writing before you pay.
| Urbania variant | Seats | Rate | Billed kms* | Estimated fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Urbania | 12 / 14 / 16 Seater | ₹38/km | 300 km | ₹11,400 |
| Premium Urbania | 12 / 15 Seater | ₹45/km | 300 km | ₹13,500 |
| Luxury Urbania | 9 / 10 Seater | ₹55/km | 300 km | ₹16,500 |
| Luxury Urbania — Massage Seats | 9 / 10 Seater | ₹60/km | 300 km | ₹18,000 |
| Ultra Luxury Urbania | 8 / 9 Seater | ₹65/km | 300 km | ₹19,500 |
*Billed kilometres = actual round-trip distance or 300 km × 1 day, whichever is higher (≈120 km round trip). Driver bata, toll, parking and permits extra at actuals. Final quote shared in writing before booking.
04Nearby Routes