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If you’re okay with a quick ride, the airport to Chennai Central bus starts around 5 pm and runs every 20 30 minutes. From there you can hop on a 48 type bus to Mahabalipuram, which leaves roughly every 45 minutes after 4 pm. The last Chennai to Chengalpattu train departs just before 6 pm, so a taxi after 4 pm is still the safest bet if you want to avoid waiting. If you prefer staying close to the temples, the HAYATHI INN is only a few hundred metres away and gives you a short walk to the Five Rathas.