Mahabalipuram

The city was named Mahamallapuram perhaps after the demon king Mahabali or Pallava king Mahamalla and has a rich historical signifiance. Being the port city of the Pallavas, visitors can see marvelous monuments made by the Pallavas kings. The scuptural panels, caves, monolithic chariots and temples are the attractions of this place. It is also one of the Golden Triangle circuits of south India. This World Heritage Site is famed for its picturesqe beaches. Some of the worth visit sites here are the Beach temples, the Varaha cave, the Arjuna's Penance, the Shore temple and the Sculpture museum which must not be missed.

Getting There

By Air :The closest airport from Mahabalipuram is Chennai.

By Road :Mahabalipuram is wellconnected to Chennai, Kanchipuram and Pondicherry.

By Rail : Chengalpattu is the nearest railhead and is 29 km away from Mahabalipuram.

Related Accommodations

There are numerous hotels and one can pick from a range of beach resorts, deluxe and cheap hotels. Hotels in Mahabalipuram are known for the hopitality and comforts.

Did You Know?

• Mahabalipuram is also known as 'Mamallapuram'.
• Mahabalipuram has also been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• One can also enjoy the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival here which is held every January.

Attractions

The Shore Temple

It is one of the oldest temples in Tamilnadu and was built by Narasimhavarman II. Standing on the edge of the Bay of Bengal, it is a unique temple devoted to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Built in the 8th century the temple is known for its brilliant Dravidian Architecture.

Arjuna's Penance

It is belived to be the world's largest bas-relief and is ornamented by figures of gods, demigods, birds, beasts and other creations. This whale-back-shaped rock masterpiece is 27m long and 9m high.

Five Rathas

These are the five monolithic temples designed in different style. Popularly known as the Pancha Pandava Rathas, four of the temples are beautifully carved out of one single rock.

Sculpture Musuem

This museum has on display around 3000 sculptures mainly of wood, metal, cement and brass.

Tiger's Cave

It is an open air theatre where cultural programmes are organised.

Location

This Golden Town of Thousand Temples is situated 60km away from Chennai and is in the state of Tamilnadu. Also called Mamallapuram, this town is known for its magnificent monuments and alluring beaches.