It is worth noting that, as of August 2024, Chennai is undergoing a major extension of its metro system meaning roadworks are taking place across the city thus it seems to be a mission simply to get in and out of the city, especially when it’s mixed in with the usual chaos!
Mahabalipuram is situated approximately 50km south of Chennai and dates back to the 7th and 8th century. Although it is split across several sites, it is possible to enter all of them with just one ticket plus disabled individuals can enter for FREE. The first stop was Shore Temple for which the majority is flat and accessible…
The town of Mahabalipuram is full of restaurants (plus monkeys, goats and the occasion cow), however it is difficult to find one which is accessible and has air conditioning hence our driver kindly made it his mission to make some enquiries with the locals to source a place to eat. The result being a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Bay of Bengal that can be accessed via a lift hidden away in a parking garage (we definitely wouldn’t have found this by ourselves!)…
The next stop was The Pancharatha Temple which is a short drive from The Shore Temple. Although there are steps down to the actual structures, it is possible to roll around the perimeter path which is fitted with ramps etc.
There are several other structures to marvel at, however, one thought it best to return to the hotel considering the current travel time.
The plan for tomorrow is to head to Chennai Rail Museum which is definitely open on a Wednesday!