I’m going to let you in on a secret.

I’ve discovered the best place to stay in Mahabalipuram, India.

Even better? It’s an affordable luxury hotel. I don’t know about you, but if you put affordable and luxury in the same sentence, I’m all in. Do you agree?!

So what is this place? It’s the Intercontinental Chennai Resort.

About an hour’s drive south of Chennai, along the East Coast Road, this 5-star hotel has become my husband’s and my favorite escape from the madness of Chennai. (Read more about our journey and why we have been splitting our time between Chennai and NYC.)

And now I want to share with you all of the reasons we love this resort, and why we think it’s the perfect weekend getaway from Chennai and the best place to stay in Mahabalipuram.

Why is the Intercontinental Resort the Best Place to Stay in Mahabalipuram?

Located on a pristine beach, a few miles north of the famous UNESCO World Heritage sites of Mahabalipuram, the hotel brings a new level of sophistication and refinement to the area.

As soon as we pulled up to the modern and striking edifice, we were greeted with cold towels and drinks by the hotel staff. This was just the beginning of a full weekend of pampering. (And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a bit of pampering now and then?!) The understated luxury of the resort is the perfect antidote to the madness of Chennai.

Sure, there are other options along the East Coast Road where you can book a room. But no other hotel in the region has the overall beauty, opulence and level of service that this resort has. While the price point is also higher than other hotels, it’s still relatively cheap for a 5-star, luxury hotel.  This is why my husband and I feel it’s by far the best place to stay in Mahabalipuram.

The Hotel Design and Accommodations

This 5-star beach resort was built in 2015. In keeping with the famous archeological sites nearby like the Shore Temple, the modern design is actually based on the layout of ancient a Hindu temple. You’ll find representations of the temple square, temple tank, and pillared hall, but all with a modern twist.

While the effect of the architecture is almost Brutalist, the rooms themselves are bright and airy, exuding luxury and comfort. We opted for a resort deluxe room with a king-size bed, off one of the hotel’s main courtyards, but ocean-view suites are also available.

For two New Yorkers, we found the prices to be reasonable, especially for a luxury resort. Room rates during the low season start as low as $88 per night, with suites at $160. Expect higher rates during the high season (November – February), with rates starting around $119. Of course, don’t quote me on these prices because they are subject to change!

Pro Travel Tip: When I’m searching for a great hotel deal, I will always call the hotel to see if they can match or offer a better room rate than what I find online. I find it’s always better to book directly with the hotel because you can earn points and it’s more likely you’ll get a room upgrade. For more great travel tips, read my post, How to Travel Like a Pro. 

The Amenities at the Intercontinental Chennai Resort

While we were tempted to spend our entire stay lounging by the pool, (we seriously could have spent all weekend there), we made the effort to explore all of the hotel’s amenities.

By far, my favorite part of our stay at the resort was the couples massage we got at the beautiful spa. The service was impeccable and the Zen design of the spa is so inviting you won’t want to leave!

We also loved spending time at Kokomo, the resort’s Tiki shack right on the beach. Both nights we were there we enjoyed cocktails as the sun went down, the ocean breeze a welcome reprieve from the South Indian heat.

The hotel is also home to Tao of Peng, a high-end, Chinese style restaurant. We devoured a decadent Saturday brunch there, (the buffet is extensive and impressive!) as well as dinner. The chef pulled out all of the stops for our evening meal, presenting us with an over-the-top, gorgeous dessert platter that was almost too pretty to eat!

And finally, there is The Melting Pot, the hotel’s all-day dining option. This is where we had breakfast. We were impressed with the buffet which was full of both Western and Indian food options.

And lastly, don’t forget that this hotel is perfectly situated for exploring Mahabalipuram, which has a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes a group of temples and monuments built during the Pallava Dynasty, in the 7th and 8eth centuries. Stand-outs include the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Krishna’s Butterball, and the Descent of the Ganga.

With all of these amenities, have I convinced you yet that it’s the best place to stay in Mahabalipuram?

Related: For more details about everything to see in Mahabalipuram, check out My Travel Guide for Exploring the East Coast Road from Chennai to Pondicherry.

Related: Looking for another great weekend getaway from Chennai? Here’s my full travel guide for Pondicherry.

Is the Intercontinental the Best Place to Stay in Mahabalipuram?

I always find that the best trips are the ones where you can’t wait to return for another visit.

And that’s how we felt about our stay at the Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort. It was the perfect weekend getaway from Chennai and we left feeling restored and renewed. So I answer this question with a resounding yes!

If you live in Chennai or are passing through, and you’re looking to explore the East Coast Road and the historic sites at Mahabalipuram, put this hotel on your list. I highly recommend spending at least one night here, so you can immerse yourself in true luxury.