Temple At Mahabalipuram

Introduction and history: The Mahabalipuram is a town situated about 60 kilometers from Chennai and it is part of Kancheepuram district. Also known as Mamallapuram, this place was a 7th century port city of the South Indian dynasty of the Pallavas. In fact it is believed to have been named after the Pallava king Mamalla. The temple at Mahabalipuram is a masterpiece of Pallava architecture, which depicts the Dravidian constructional style. The history traces back to the origin of this template is somewhere between 7th to 9th century.

What to see and when to go: The temple consists of multiple important monuments which are rock cut and monolithic. Some of the important portions include Shiva temple, Vishnu temple, Arjuna’s penance, Buffalo demon, Pancha rathas, Varaha mantapam, Mahishasuramardini mantapam.

Things to do: Apart from looking into the temple one can spent lot of time on the beaches as the temple is just located off the shore. There are numerous number of good resorts have come in the nearby areas for a comfortable stay. Visitors can also spend some time in the nearby shopping areas where one can buy many small sculptures and artistry works made by the artisans made of granite stones.

Accommodation: As mentioned in the previous paragraphs, there are ample numbers of resorts located on the shore of Bay of Bengal. One can also stay in Chennai and travel by taxi, where economical hotels are available.

Mamalla Beach Resort,
108, Kovalam Road
Mahabalipuram
Phone: 044-27442240/43

Mamalla Heritage
104, East Raja Street,
Mamallapuram-603104
Tamil Nadu
Phone : 044-27442060,27442260,27442360

Fisherman’s Cove
Kovalam
Mahabalipuram
Phone: 044-27472303

Mode of transport: Chennai (formerly known are Madras) is the nearest Airport and railway station. There are ample number of local buses and taxis available from Chennai to reach Mahabalipuram.

related links:
• Tourist information: http://www.mahabalipuram.co.in/

• Historical information: http://www.tamilnation.org