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Considered to be the jewel of Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram is a breathtaking spectacle of exotically sculpted monuments, belonging to the 7th century. This exquisite site or city is believed to have been built by the dynasty of Pal lavas of ancient South India. Mahabalipuram derives its unique name from a Pallava king Mamalla. With the honor of being classified a UNESCO World heritage site, your journey of discovery here is bound to be a long and a fruitful one.
There is no way the beauty of this marvelous tourist site can be captured on film or with words. It is sheer poetry written on the walls of history. The blue-green beaches, the tombs, the rock-cut forts and the lagoons display every shade imaginable. Known for being the favorite picnic spot of millions and those who want to experience the perfect convergence of art and architecture blended with excellence, Mahabalipuram is sure to attract thousands of tourists from all over the world, in search of real solace to the mind.
History of Mahabalipuram
The imposing rock-cut architecture carved by the unbeatable Pallavan artisans reminds us that this place served as school of art and architecture. The rich and elaborate designs of the sculptures, some finished in glory and some yet to explore, stood as an example for students and instructors who demonstrated these plethora of styles of architecture. The best examples signifying the uniqueness of the place and its history would be the Panch rathas, every ratha being unique and the best of its kind.
Special attractions in and around Mahabalipuram
- Thirukadalmallai: This is a very holy destination and a Vishnu temple, built by the same rulers, is believed to have been constructed with a view to protect the excellent and unrivalled carvings from the ocean waters. So, it can also be called the protector of the sculptors.
Descent of the Ganges: It is one of a group of monuments that hold the pride of being acknowledged as World heritage site since 1984. The massive open air relief sculpted out is the most impressive.
- Varaha Cave Temple: An example of rock-cut architecture dating from the late 7th century, is a rock-cut cave temple located at Mahabalipuram
- The Shore temple: This is a structural temple along the Bay of Bengal with the entrance from the western side away from the sea. Recent excavations have revealed new structures here and were reconstructed after a recent natural calamity.
Best Time to Visit Mahabalipuram
The best time to visit here is from October to March
Location
State: Tamil Nadu
District: Kancheepuram
Distance of Mahabalipuram from nearest cities: Mahabalipuram is located around sixty kilometers from Chennai.
How to reach Mahabalipuram
Nearest airport: Chennai at a distance of approximately 58 kilometers is the nearest airport.
Nearest railway stations: Chennai at a distance of approximately 58 kilometers is the nearest railway station.
Directions by road from nearby cities: Mahabalipuram is well connected by road with Chennai and other important cities of the state.
Tourism Department
Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation
Tourism Complex
Wallajah Road
Chennai - 600002
Tel: 91-44-25367850 Extn.221; 25383333, 25389857, 25360294
Climatic Conditions
Mahabalipuram experiences a moderate climate. Summers are mostly hot and humid and rain falls from October to December. Mahabalipuram is the best picnic spot, may it be summer or winter, because here, you feel like merging your soul with history and nature.
Clothing
Light clothing is recommended for visitors to Mahabalipuram
Tourist attractions near Mahabalipuram
- Exciting explorations-When it comes to discovery of the unexplored world, Mahabalipuram is the best example for its openness and vastness.
- The seven Pagodas-My attempt to exaggerate the uniqueness of Mahabalipuram would be in vain if I don’t mention the seven pagodas, at a distance from this place. These are photographer’s paradise, with unique excavations.
- The under water city-After the monster waves, tsunami, hit the fertile land in 2004 and as the waves gradually receded, it revealed carvings of animals.
This article was contributed by Abhay Tandon
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