Mamallapuram Light House

Amazing views and a blend of old-world charm and coastal beauty! The Mahabalipuram Lighthouse is one of the highlights of the heritage zone here — a perfect mix of history, adventure, and stunning views! Standing right next to the Olakkannesvara Temple and the Mahishasura Mardhini Mandapa, this place offers a complete experience where you can explore ancient art and then climb up for breathtaking scenery. The lighthouse itself is over a century old (built in 1900), but it stands beside the Old Lighthouse temple structure, which is even older — from the Pallava period. It’s incredible to see two different eras of navigation history in one spot! The modern lighthouse is still functional, and if you want to go inside and climb to the top, it usually opens around 11:00 AM in the morning. The climb is narrow but exciting — and once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a 360° panoramic view of the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, the Bay of Bengal, and the whole town of Mahabalipuram. The breeze up there is refreshing, and the view is simply breathtaking — you can see the coastline stretch endlessly on one side and the ancient rock temples scattered below. The lighthouse is included in the same ASI ticket (₹40 at the counter or ₹35 if you buy online or scan the QR code). It’s convenient, and you can cover nearby spots like the Olakkannesvara Temple, Mahishasura Mardhini Mandapa, Krishna’s Butter Ball, Shore Temple, and Pancha Rathas all in one day. 💡 Tips: Visit in the morning or late afternoon for good light and pleasant weather. The steps inside are steep, so wear good shoes and carry water. Don’t miss the view from the top — it’s the best spot to see all of Mahabalipuram at once! A must-visit for anyone who loves photography, history, and coastal views — this lighthouse truly captures the timeless charm of Mahabalipuram!

The Mahabalipuram Lighthouse is a charming heritage structure offering stunning views of the coastline and the town. The climb to the top is enjoyable, with panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal and nearby monuments like the Shore Temple. The area around the lighthouse is well-maintained, making it a nice spot for photography and leisurely strolls. The lighthouse is **open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM**, giving visitors ample time to explore during the day. It can get a bit crowded during peak hours, so visiting early morning is recommended for a peaceful experience. Overall, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Mahabalipuram, especially if you enjoy scenic views and photography.

Went on a public holiday, had to wait quite sometime, the combo ticket you purchase outside is not valid inside, you need get a separate ticket. A bit steep and becomes very steep at the top. But advisable for people with knee problems and also very elderly people.

The Mamallapuram Lighthouse is a must-visit! Located near the Shore Temple, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal and the surrounding ancient ruins. The climb to the top is steep but manageable, and the view is worth it. The site is well-maintained with informative boards about its historical significance.

"I recently visited the historic Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, and I must say, it was an exhilarating experience! As I began to climb the narrow stairs, I couldn't help but feel a little scared. The stairs were steep and winding, with barely enough space for one person to pass. However, the breathtaking views from the top made every step worth it. As I reached the top, I was greeted by a stunning panorama of the surrounding landscape. The vast expanse of the Bay of Bengal stretched out before me, with the sun shining brightly overhead. What struck me most was the sheer number of tourists who had made the climb. Despite the narrow stairs, people of all ages and nationalities were eager to experience the thrill of climbing the lighthouse. At just ₹10 for the ticket, it's an absolute steal. However, I would caution visitors to be extremely careful while climbing the stairs. The narrow space can be daunting, and it's essential to take your time and watch your step. Overall, the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a thrilling adventure. Rating: 5/5 stars"

The view from the lighthouse is good and ticket pricing is affordable. But climbing the staircase to reach the top of the lighthouse feels a bit risky, have to be extra cautious during the climb esp the last few stairs. On top of it, the guards are very rude. Nobody tells you the exit time while buying the ticket and with just 10 mins on the clock the guards arrive and pressure you to get down and leave the park so that they can go home on time. Need better people management skills.

The lighthouse offers a beautiful beach view; take binoculars with you to enjoy the overall Mahabalipuram townscape from the top, but be prepared to stand in the queue for 5–10 minutes as only limited batches are allowed up for a short time.

Mamallapuram Lighthouse is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses on India’s east coast. The present circular tower was built in 1900 next to an ancient Pallava-era lighthouse. You can climb to the top for stunning views of the sea, shore temples, and town. Surrounding it are rock-cut monuments and the famous Olakkannesvara Temple. A calm, breezy spot — best visited during sunset for a peaceful view.