Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, resides in the Tamil Nadu state in India. It is a stunning destination that gives tourists and explorers a peek into Indian culture and history. If you’re planning a visit to the place, you might start with the basic questions. Where can I stay in Mahabalipuram, and where can I eat? Don’t worry, we’ve got you.
Fortunately, Mahabalipuram has a range of options when it comes to food and accommodations. From budget-friendly guest houses to luxurious resorts and several restaurants and street-side hawkers that cater to different palettes, the quaint town has got everything. So let us give you an insight into the best places to stay and eat in Mahabalipuram. After all, you can only enjoy your holiday when your necessities are sorted.
Where To Stay And Eat In Mahabs?
Where To Stay?
Isn’t Mahabalipuram a destination just for day trips? Do I really need to stay there overnight? We know you might have these questions and more, but hold on. Allow us to answer them.
Although many tourists take a day trip from Chennai, we highly recommend staying overnight. The evenings are a great time to beat the rush and experience the temples, sculptures, monuments, and other attractions in peace. You’ll be rid of the noise and the bickering of the touristy crowds and see how the town thrives at night.
Walking along the shore, strolling through the streets of the little town, and trying the local cuisine. You can do all this and more during the day, but you’ll miss the calm and serendipitous atmosphere that enriches your experience. Furthermore, we know you wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to see the glorious golden sunrise looking over the Bay of Bengal. Now that you have a reason to stay, let us show you where you can bunk at night. Let’s jump in.
As mentioned earlier, numerous options are available to you when it comes to staying. We stayed in Siva’s guest house ($), which was simple and had all the basic amenities we required. But if you’re looking for something on the higher end or more extravagant, check out the list below:
- Silver Moon’s guest house ($)
- Siva’s guest house ($)
- Hotel Mahabs ($$)
- Bodhiwoods Resort ($$)
- Radisson Blue ($$$)
- Sheraton Grand ($$$)
- Four Points By Sheraton ($$$)
Note: There isn’t much prominent nightlife at Mahabalipuram. The cafe and shops close at around 11 PM. But amidst the quiet streets have a vibe of their own, and we wouldn’t want you to miss it.
Where To Eat?
Mahabalipuram offers a wide variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and moods. So whether you’re craving continental cuisine, Italian dishes, English breakfast, Chinese fast food, or authentic South Indian specialties like biryanis, seafood, and rotis, you have arrived at the right place.
Each eatery has its unique vibe and ambiance, which can add to the overall dining experience. In addition to the delicious food, the hospitality of the locals and the staff can make your meal even more enjoyable. What’s truly breathtaking is that many restaurants in Mahabalipuram offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your food amidst stunning views of the neverending sea of the Bay of Bengal.
Below are a few of our recommendations.
- Flip Flops Beach Shack & Cafe
- Joe’s Cafe for coffee, pancakes, omelet, and a quick breakfast
- Budha Cafe for everything here
- Moonraker’s Restaurant for seafood and drinks
- Bob Marley Cafe & Beach House for seafood and drinks
- Marisco Beach Restaurant & Rooms for the ambiance, views, and the food
- Hotel Mamalla Bhavan (Pure Vegetarian Restaurant) for South Indian delicacies
Note: Alcohol is served in a few restaurants, but the price is double the MRP (Maximum Retail Price).
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