Chengalpattu district

The Coromandel Coast south of Chennai, where Pallava-era rock carvings and shore temples form a South Indian World Heritage site.

Chengalpattu district is located in the northeastern part of Tamil Nadu, bordering Chennai to the north and facing the Bay of Bengal. The most famous attraction in the district is the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, a World Heritage site. The Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, Arjuna's Penance relief, and various rock-cut caves showcase the artistic achievements of the Pallava Dynasty, while Krishna's Butterball is a popular photo spot. Along the East Coast Road (ECR), you can also visit the DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, and the Tiger Cave. November to February offers the most comfortable weather. The main gateway is Chennai International Airport, and the drive south from Chennai along the ECR takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Destinations

• Mamallapuram
• Chennai

Itineraries

• Tamil Nadu Temple Trail – Travel south from Chennai to Madurai, exploring Pallava rock carvings, Great Living Chola Temples, and the sacred Pamba…
• South India Coast-to-Coast: Chennai to Kochi – From the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea, traverse temple plains, Chettinad, tea hills, and backwaters.
• Chennai, Kanchipuram & Pondicherry – Loop from Chennai to see Kanchipuram, the Shore Temple, Auroville, and the French Quarter.