Krishna's Butter Ball — Attraction in Tamil Nadu

I have been in Chennai for more than 10 years, but I never visited Mahabalipuram. Actually I planned multiple times to visit these historic places to explore and gain experience, but it took more than 10 years to come to this place. Unlike other tourist places, in Mahabalipuram we need to roam around to visit the different places. Earlier I thought of taking a single ticket to get a complete exploration, but the reality is totally different. When we reached/entered the bus stand we didn't know where to visit first and asked for parking. The local guy asked me to park the vehicle just opposite to the bus stand, later I came to know that the place was "Sea shore Temple". We parked our vehicle near that temple, and we first went to visit Krihna's butter ball place. Entrance fee was 40 rupees per head (below 15 years entry is free) and there was no extra cost for Camera. It was very hot Saturday afternoon, and the entire area was filled with hot sunlight. We slowly explored the places inside the premises. At the entrance, the great Krishan's butter ball welcomed us with its giant look. Right hand side we could see a rock temple which has a collection of sculptures and a few big trees. There was a wide grass lane where our kids could run and enjoy their time. We need to start exploring the place from the left side. We could see some bigger rocks and a few sculptures. Inside the premises, we can buy some snacks to settle down the heat, we bought some mangoes, cucumber, butter milk and water bottles. There was a museum located inside the campus, they charged 10 rupees again (but optional only), also to explore the lighthouse we needed to pay 10 rupees again. The terrible part is each time, we have to pay 20 rupees for DLSR cameras. Exploring light houses is up to the individual's own risk, the steps and the viewpoints are very dangerous. People who are keen on exploring the viewpoint along with kids please think twice before you step into the view point. We can exit after the lighthouse which leads to the way for five rathas mandapam. Overall its a good place to explore but personally I feel, this is not the place to explore during summer-it's very hot and we easily dehydrate...

Krishna’s Butter Ball in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, is a fascinating historical site. This giant stone, precariously balanced on a slope for centuries, is a true wonder and amazes visitors with its unique story. It is believed to have been created during the reign of the Pallava dynasty, around the 7th century. The site showcases the Pallavas’ exceptional skill in rock carving. However, many sculptures and structures, including this one, remain incomplete, likely due to the sudden end of construction or changes in royal priorities. The site is well-maintained, and the entry fee is just ₹40, making it affordable for everyone. Apart from the famous Butter Ball, there are other stunning attractions nearby, like Arjuna’s Penance, Ganesha Ratha, Trimurti rock cave temples, and other fascinating sculptures carved out of rocks. The area is surrounded by beautiful views, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation. You can also enjoy refreshments from local vendors selling coconut water, buttermilk, cold drinks, and fresh fruits inside the premises. However, food joints and parking are located a little away from the main site. Visitors should note that the monuments are spread out, so there is some walking involved, which might be difficult for small children or the elderly. While enjoying the site, let’s all be responsible tourists and avoid littering to keep this historical monument clean and beautiful for future...

Krishna’s Butter Ball

It’s a kind of wonder. The giant rock of almost 250 tonnes in weight is standing still on a slope on which we people might fall down while walking.

This is Krisna’s butter ball. Nothing to correlate with the history of lord krishna. Its just a name given by its appearance.

This butterball is located in Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) in Tamilnadu state. Its really a mystery which no one can understand and even science has no explanation about this. A must visit place in India. Located almost 50 to 54 kms from Chennai International airport. This place is a part of group of monuments which is declared as a world heritage by UNESCO.

This will be a great place to spend time with family and kids. The place is well maintained and surrounded with a beautiful garden.

Best time to visit: Between October to March. (Prefer going on weekdays to avoid much crowd and scenic views and clicks)

Please visit the place early in the morning to avoid the crowd and heat as well. In early time you will get clear pictures without much crowd. If you are planning to visit in the evening then plan a visit after 3pm.

Parking is available at the entrance which is free and 40₹ per person will be charged as the entry fee for adults. No entry fee for below 15 yrs childrens. This entry ticket will be valid for all the group of monuments which are closer to each other within a distance of approximately 2-3 kms.

Other places to visit nearby

Tiger caves, Ganesha rath, Arjuna’s penance, Krishna Mandapam, Mahishasurmardini cave, Shore temple, Mahabalipuram beach, Mammalapuram light house, Five rathas and India...