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Places to visit in Mahabalipuram
Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram
Tourist Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram
Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Descent of the Ganges, Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, Krishna's Butterball, Varaha Cave Temple, Mahabalipuram Beach, Thirukadalmallai, Krishna Mandapam, India seashell museum, Mahishasuramardini Mandapa and many more.Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram is a small and beautiful town located in the state of Tamil Nadu. Known for its cultural diversity and heritage, the strip of land is blessed with the best tourist places in Mahabalipuram which includes some of the amazing temples, which is why it is referred to as the ‘temple town by the sea’.
Besides, it is home to age-old rock carvings, dating back to the 7th century. One can find the architecture of the Dravidian architectural style and Pallava art in most of the temples and caves. Visit Mahabalipuram Beach for a splendid view or admire the Sculpture Museum, this town has a lot to offer to its visitors. Among the best tourist places in Mahabalipuram, one can visit Shore Temple which is located just next to the sea.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram:
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Places to visit in Mahabalipuram
Dating back to the 8th century AD, Shore Temple is one of the oldest temples which represent the ancient designs, carving art and constructions. It is claimed to be a part of Seven Pagodas by the legends and is one of the finest places to visit in Mahabalipuram. One can also locate the decorative top of the temple covered with sculptures and carvings, which indeed adds somewhat authentic beauty to it.
The temple is standing strong with the help of the supporting stone that resists it from erosion. Shore Temple is located at the shore of Bay of Bengal which offers a beautiful view of the never ending ocean. This temple has three shrines where two of them are dedicated to Lord Shiva and the other one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The place is very clean and its location made it a major attraction among the tourists.
The temple is standing strong with the help of the supporting stone that resists it from erosion. Shore Temple is located at the shore of Bay of Bengal which offers a beautiful view of the never ending ocean. This temple has three shrines where two of them are dedicated to Lord Shiva and the other one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The place is very clean and its location made it a major attraction among the tourists.
Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: INR 340 for foreigners and INR 10 for locals, free for children (below 15 years).
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm every day.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit this historical temple is from October to March, or in the months of January and February, considering the climatic factor.
The word Pancha means five, hence the place presents five Rathas built with rocks. It denotes the evolution or rise of the Dravidian architects. The temple also resembles the historical monarchs and shrines of Buddhists, while the Rathas are associated with Mahabharat. Describing the rath, the first one is Drupati's, which stands in on the right side by the entrance.
Arjuna’s rath is situated just beside Draupadi’s whereas, stands Nakula Sahadev Rath and Bhima is located at the front. Dharamraj Yudhistar’s Rath is the largest. This place seems to be one of the best tourist places in Mahabalipuram.
Arjuna’s rath is situated just beside Draupadi’s whereas, stands Nakula Sahadev Rath and Bhima is located at the front. Dharamraj Yudhistar’s Rath is the largest. This place seems to be one of the best tourist places in Mahabalipuram.
Location: Mamallapuram, Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu
Entry-Fee: INR 10 for the India-based tourists and INR 250 for the foreigners.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm every day.
Best time to visit: The perfect time to visit this place is during the winter months, i.e., from September to March.
Descent of the Ganges is one of the giant open-air sculptures which was engraved on two stiff rock boulders and it is one of the significant places to visit in Mahabalipuram. This is a great place to explore the history for some time with your family as it has some of the beautiful sculptures and carvings.
This interesting rock relief has very sensitive and realistic carvings to explore and remember for lifetime. This monument was created by King Narsimhavarman of Pallava dynasty and it portrays his great imagination which was used by the workers to carve such an amazing and appealing rock-cut sculpture.
This interesting rock relief has very sensitive and realistic carvings to explore and remember for lifetime. This monument was created by King Narsimhavarman of Pallava dynasty and it portrays his great imagination which was used by the workers to carve such an amazing and appealing rock-cut sculpture.
Location: W Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603.
Entry-Fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 250 for foreigners and Free for children below the age of 15.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm every day.
Best time to visit: The most ideal months to visit Descent of the Ganges is from September to May.
The group of monuments date to the reigning period of the Pandavas, 7th and 8th century. You can also explore one of the largest open-air rock relief in the world, which is included in the group of monuments. This place offers too many antique temples at one stop. And this place seems to be the perfect destination for the historical enthusiasts.
It is spread over a large area and it is favourable to get a guide who can help you in knowing the stories about each of the temples. It takes an entire day to see the places properly if one is interested to see all of the temples closely. The carvings and sculptures are unique from one another and all of the monuments are well-maintained and clean.
It is spread over a large area and it is favourable to get a guide who can help you in knowing the stories about each of the temples. It takes an entire day to see the places properly if one is interested to see all of the temples closely. The carvings and sculptures are unique from one another and all of the monuments are well-maintained and clean.
Location: Fisherman Colony, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: INR 250 for foreigners and INR 10 for locals, free for children below the age of 15.
Timing: 6 am- 6 pm every day.
The Krishna's Butterball is a strange 250-ton rock boulder, which is standing or resting inclined on a slope. It is known as Stone of Sky God. This is one of the most exciting tourist places in Mahabalipuram due to the mysterious scene it presents. It seems that this giant boulder, known as Krishna’s butterball refuses to give in to gravity, no one is quite sure why.
This place is the perfect destination to spend some great time with family and kids. Tourists love to capture pictures while posing at different angles around the rock. Krishna’s Butterball is the ideal place for aged people to sit and chat. Also, this place offers a huge ground where the kids end up to enjoy a lot.
This place is the perfect destination to spend some great time with family and kids. Tourists love to capture pictures while posing at different angles around the rock. Krishna’s Butterball is the ideal place for aged people to sit and chat. Also, this place offers a huge ground where the kids end up to enjoy a lot.
Location: E Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: INR 40 for Indians and INR 600 for foreigners
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm every day.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the place is within the months of November to February.
Varaha Cave Temple is a rock-cut Hindu temple that is carved beautifully revealing the ancient South Indian architecture. It is one of the must-visit places to visit in Mahabalipuram, situated behind the Arjuna’s Penance. It is made on a giant piece of granite and has some of the finest pieces of sculptures.
At the entrance of the temple, a primitive veranda can be seen with two independent pillars and two pillars attached to the side walls. All fours pillars are designed to reflect greeting for entrance and horned lions. The carvings are extremely prominent even on today and this place is still so beautiful and underrated at the same time. Varaha Cave Temple seems to be one of the hidden gems of Mahabalipuram.
At the entrance of the temple, a primitive veranda can be seen with two independent pillars and two pillars attached to the side walls. All fours pillars are designed to reflect greeting for entrance and horned lions. The carvings are extremely prominent even on today and this place is still so beautiful and underrated at the same time. Varaha Cave Temple seems to be one of the hidden gems of Mahabalipuram.
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: INR 10 for Indian nationals and INR 250 for foreign visitors.
Timing: Thursdays to Tuesday- 9 am to 6 pm and Closed on Wednesday
Best time to visit: The most ideal months to visit are from September to May.
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To please the eyes of the visitors, Mahabalipuram Beach is one of the perfect places to visit in Mahabalipuram. The tourists mostly prefer to relax while listening to the shores of the waves and witnessing the elegantly carved rock-cut sculptures. It presents a perfect scene of nature and art at once.
Alongside, it also offers caves, rathas, temples and chariots, thus providing a complete package for holidays to both locals and foreign visitors. There are a number of attractions located at the beach which includes a school of art and culture, snake venom extracting centre and a crocodile bank housing about 5000 crocodiles of 6 different species.
Alongside, it also offers caves, rathas, temples and chariots, thus providing a complete package for holidays to both locals and foreign visitors. There are a number of attractions located at the beach which includes a school of art and culture, snake venom extracting centre and a crocodile bank housing about 5000 crocodiles of 6 different species.
Location: Mahabalipuram Beach is located on the east coast, next to E Raja Street, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: Not applicable.
Timing: Not applicable.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Mahabalipuram Beach is between October to March.
Thirukadalmallai or Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Sthalasayana Perumal (Vishnu) and Goddess Nilamangai Thayar (Lakshmi) and is among the 108 Divyadesam. With an exquisite carving, it is considered as one of the tourist places in Mahabalipuram. Thirukadalmallai is one of the perfect examples of Dravidian architectural style.
This place is extremely calm and peaceful and that is what makes this temple completely different from the other ones. Even when tourists visit this place from all around the world, the priests make sure to maintain the silence of this place which offers a unique atmosphere to the temple. It is one of the oldest temples of Mahabalipuram and one can easily feel the rise in spiritual energy after entering the temple.
This place is extremely calm and peaceful and that is what makes this temple completely different from the other ones. Even when tourists visit this place from all around the world, the priests make sure to maintain the silence of this place which offers a unique atmosphere to the temple. It is one of the oldest temples of Mahabalipuram and one can easily feel the rise in spiritual energy after entering the temple.
Location: S Mada St, Mahabalipuram, TL 603104.
Entry-Fee: Free for all.
Timing: 6 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 8:30 pm.
Best time to visit: The months of October and November are the best ones to visit this place.
Krishna Mandapam is popular among the tourists for its caves and amazing rock carvings which signify some of the glorious past of the region. It is also the largest among the rock-cut caves located in Mahabalipuram. The temple was built in the mid-seventh century and is dedicated to Lord Krishna.
It is the oldest and one among the ten such cave temples of Mahabalipuram. The architecture of this cave is impressive and simple with nine reliefs carved on the surface of the cave which depicts different events from Indian mythology. The most attractive incident carved here is of Lord Krishna lifting the whole Govardhana mountain to save the people from heavy rainfall.
It is the oldest and one among the ten such cave temples of Mahabalipuram. The architecture of this cave is impressive and simple with nine reliefs carved on the surface of the cave which depicts different events from Indian mythology. The most attractive incident carved here is of Lord Krishna lifting the whole Govardhana mountain to save the people from heavy rainfall.
Location: W Raja St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: Not applicable.
Timing: From 7 am to 6 pm every day.
Best time to visit: One can visit the place within the months of June to February.
Looking for something unique and different to visit? Well here's a place that will fit the bill perfectly. India seashell museum is the largest museum in its own type and is one of the unique places to visit in Mahabalipuram. Irrespective of one’s age, most of the tourists love this place like nothing else in the world.
The museum houses more than 40,000 varieties of exhibits. The architecture of the museum grants an illusion of the sea and its life. It also houses a shopping area known as Maya Bazaar where one can get different things related to sea lives. Moreover, there is a beautiful and attractive aquarium and a SeaFood Restaurant within its compound.
The museum houses more than 40,000 varieties of exhibits. The architecture of the museum grants an illusion of the sea and its life. It also houses a shopping area known as Maya Bazaar where one can get different things related to sea lives. Moreover, there is a beautiful and attractive aquarium and a SeaFood Restaurant within its compound.
Location: 191/1A2, Kalpakkam Road, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Entry-Fee: INR 100
Timing: 8 am to 8 pm every day.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit this place will be the winter months, from November to February.
Mahishasuramardini Mandapa is a temple which was erected a long time ago, in the 7th century. This beautiful ancient architecture is something to look forward to for sure. UNESCO added it as a world heritage site in the year 1984. This temple is an incomplete structure and is located at the base of diorite hillock.
It is one of the fourteen cave temples of Mahabalipuram and it houses several elegant reliefs portraying artistic abilities of the sculptures in Pallava times. The front of the cave temple is adorned with four columns and two pilasters, floor and the ceiling are incomplete even today. The columns have diverse designs and all the panels depict different stories and incidents of Gods and Goddesses.
It is one of the fourteen cave temples of Mahabalipuram and it houses several elegant reliefs portraying artistic abilities of the sculptures in Pallava times. The front of the cave temple is adorned with four columns and two pilasters, floor and the ceiling are incomplete even today. The columns have diverse designs and all the panels depict different stories and incidents of Gods and Goddesses.
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Entry-Fee: Not applicable
Timing: Not applicable
Best time to visit: The best time to visit this temple will be in the month of April.
This is something that is a new addition to the list of the places to visit in Tamil Nadu. Before 2010, it wasn't open for tourists to walk in here and enjoy the view from the lighthouse. But in 2011, it was finally made open to the tourists to have a mesmerizing view of the surroundings from here.
The first light commissioned in this lighthouse was in 1887. India’s oldest lighthouse dating back to 640 AD is standing next to this modern one and was built by Pallava Kind Mahendra Pallava.
The first light commissioned in this lighthouse was in 1887. India’s oldest lighthouse dating back to 640 AD is standing next to this modern one and was built by Pallava Kind Mahendra Pallava.
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Entry-Fee: INR 10 for Indians and locals, INR 25 for foreigners and INR 5 for children.
Timing: 9 am to 5:30 pm. Each visitor is only allowed to enter for ten minutes.
Best time to visit: You should visit the place in the months of September to March and also prefer to visit the evening time since it will give you a better view.
Ganesha Ratha is also a temple in Mahabalipuram. It was one of the ten rathas erected out of the pink granite within the group of monuments of the Pallava period of Mahabalipuram. It is a very different sight here than that of the other places that you include in your itinerary.
This ratha is a major example of monolith Indian rock-cut architecture dating back to the late seventh century which was the reigning period of King Mahendravarman I and his son Narasimhavarman I.
This ratha is a major example of monolith Indian rock-cut architecture dating back to the late seventh century which was the reigning period of King Mahendravarman I and his son Narasimhavarman I.
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Entry-Fee: No fees are required to enter here. It is on you if you want to pay a certain amount to be there or you do not.
Timing: 9 am to 6 pm.
Best time to visit: You should not visit it in the summer, which is why any month before May from the start of the year will be apt for you.
Located near the Mahabalipuram Bus Station, the Sculpture Museum is one of the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram. It houses more than 3,000 sculptures of the Hindu mythology characters which have rich historical importance and also the tales of the ancient days.
Walk around this museum and feel the significance and greatness of the sculptures and paintings which were created by ancient artists. They utilised a variety of materials which includes metal, cement, wood and brass. This place is an amazing escape amidst the history, art and culture of both Hindu and Buddhist memoirs. If you are someone, who loves art and history, spend a day here and cherish the enduring experience forever.
Walk around this museum and feel the significance and greatness of the sculptures and paintings which were created by ancient artists. They utilised a variety of materials which includes metal, cement, wood and brass. This place is an amazing escape amidst the history, art and culture of both Hindu and Buddhist memoirs. If you are someone, who loves art and history, spend a day here and cherish the enduring experience forever.
Location: East Raja Street, Mahabalipuram, Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu-603104
Entry-Fee: Rs. 10/- per person.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit this place is from the months of October to March.
Also known as the Descent of the Ganges, this is one of the majestic monuments of Mahabalipuram. The megalith was engraved upon two adjacent boulders. The magnificent structure is 43 feet high and 96 feet wide and thus its mesmerizing beauty can not be felt completely without viewing it with your own eyes.
Arjuna’s Penance is an important excerpt from the Mahabharata whereas the Descent of the Ganges narrates the story of the penance of Bhagirathi. Each and every part of this megalith expresses its own story. This penance is the perfect destination for history enthusiasts and photographers. The artworks are really amazing and have great historical significance.
Arjuna’s Penance is an important excerpt from the Mahabharata whereas the Descent of the Ganges narrates the story of the penance of Bhagirathi. Each and every part of this megalith expresses its own story. This penance is the perfect destination for history enthusiasts and photographers. The artworks are really amazing and have great historical significance.
Location: West Raja Street, Near Ganesha Ratha, Mahabalipuram- 603104, Tamil Nadu
Entry-Fee:
- For Indians- Rs. 10/- per head
- For children below age 15- Free
- Foreigners- Rs. 250/- per head
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: The ideal months to visit this place are from November to February.
Situated far from the constraints of the city, the Tiger Cave is an excellent place for people to relax after completing a 5 km trek from Mahabalipuram. The cave consists of a crown made up of the heads of eleven tiger-like creatures called ‘yeli’ (a crossbreed of a lion and tiger).
There is also a Goddess Durga carved on the top of these heads. Like most of the other Mahabalipuram monuments, this too was built by the Pallavas in the eighth century on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. Today, the site is a famous picnic spot and is managed under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
There is also a Goddess Durga carved on the top of these heads. Like most of the other Mahabalipuram monuments, this too was built by the Pallavas in the eighth century on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. Today, the site is a famous picnic spot and is managed under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: No entry fee is required. Parking will cost INR 10.
Timing: 7 am to 7 pm.
Best time to visit: November to February is recommended for the pleasant and comfortable weather. Months between June and September are not recommended due to high temperatures and heavy rainfall.
Dharmaraja Ratha is a part of the five ‘Ratha’ structures, commonly known as the Pancha Rathas, situated in Mahabalipuram. The architectural style is monolith Indian rock-cut and it is sculpted out of single pink granite stone.
Built during the end of the seventh century, this cave temple has some of the most unique structures and innovative stone works. This is one of the best places to spend some quality time with your family. Click some amazing photographs of the temple and spend some great moments in this peaceful historic place.
Built during the end of the seventh century, this cave temple has some of the most unique structures and innovative stone works. This is one of the best places to spend some quality time with your family. Click some amazing photographs of the temple and spend some great moments in this peaceful historic place.
Location: Pancha Rathas complex, Mahabalipuram, Coromandel Coast, the Bay of Bengal, Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu.
Entry-Fee: INR 10 and INR 250 for Indians and foreigners, respectively (Extra INR 25 for shooting videos). Children below 15 do not need to buy tickets.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm.
Best time to visit: The apt months to visit here is from November to February.
Standing on the beach of Mahabalipuram along the shore of the Bay of Bengal, the Mahabalipuram Shore Beach Temple is a UNESCO classified World Heritage Site. The temple was constructed under the reign of the Pallavas and was also the first-ever stone structure built by them.
It is a monolithic structure devoted mainly to the deities of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The temple is now a place of mass gathering during the time of the Indian Dance Festival. Other attractions include the lighthouse, sculpture shops and submerged temples.
It is a monolithic structure devoted mainly to the deities of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The temple is now a place of mass gathering during the time of the Indian Dance Festival. Other attractions include the lighthouse, sculpture shops and submerged temples.
Location: Mahabalipuram, Saluvankuppam, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 340 for foreigners. (Extra INR 25 for shooting videos). Children below 15 do not need to buy tickets.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm. Tickets are sold till 5:30 pm.
Best time to visit: Evenings or early morning and during monsoon, that is between the months of August and September.
Built entirely out of greyish-white granite, the Olakkannesvara Temple is situated on the coast of Coromandel overlooking the Bay of Bengal. It was constructed in the 8th century in the Dravidian architecture style by the Pallavas. On the walls of this temple are sculpted several structures of Lord Shiva meditating on the top of the Kailash mountain.
The word ‘Olakkannesvara’ means one who has a third eye (flame eye) and holds the crescent moon on his head, thus referring to God Shiva. The temple was originally called ‘Ulaikkannisvaram’. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Clicking photographs here is against the law as it lies within the radius of a highly protected sector consisting of a nuclear power plant. The site can be reached easily through a well-connected network of roadways using local bus and taxi services.
The word ‘Olakkannesvara’ means one who has a third eye (flame eye) and holds the crescent moon on his head, thus referring to God Shiva. The temple was originally called ‘Ulaikkannisvaram’. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Clicking photographs here is against the law as it lies within the radius of a highly protected sector consisting of a nuclear power plant. The site can be reached easily through a well-connected network of roadways using local bus and taxi services.
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: No entry fee is required.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm.
Best time to visit: The period between November and February is recommended. Specific months include March, July and September.
The Draupadi Ratha is located in the complex of Pancha Ratha at Mahabalipuram. If you are a history buff then you might feel thrilled to know that this is a great example of monolithic Indian rock-cut architecture. Draupadi Ratha is built in the form of a traditional South Indian hut.
This chariot has carvings of Goddess Durga sitting on a lotus while a lion stands outside of it as a guard. The entire complex was designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site since the year 1984. The complete chariot is carved out of a long stone of granite. Though this chariot is named after the common spouse of the Pancha Pandavas, Draupadi of Mahabharata, this unfinished structure is dedicated to Goddess Durga.
This chariot has carvings of Goddess Durga sitting on a lotus while a lion stands outside of it as a guard. The entire complex was designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site since the year 1984. The complete chariot is carved out of a long stone of granite. Though this chariot is named after the common spouse of the Pancha Pandavas, Draupadi of Mahabharata, this unfinished structure is dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Location: Mahabalipuram- 603104, Tamil Nadu
Entry-Fee:
- For Indians- Rs. 10/- per person
- For Foreigners- Rs. 250/- per person
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit this place is from the months of October to March.
Under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology or MBCT became a recognised reptile zoo, a research station for herpetology (the study of amphibians and reptiles) and a registered trust.
It was founded to fulfil the mission of protecting specifically three endangered species of Indian crocodiles namely the saltwater crocodile, marsh or mugger crocodile and gharial. Popular events hosted by the centre include Jaws 3 (feeding of the crocodile, Jaw), underwater gharial exhibit and night safari.
It was founded to fulfil the mission of protecting specifically three endangered species of Indian crocodiles namely the saltwater crocodile, marsh or mugger crocodile and gharial. Popular events hosted by the centre include Jaws 3 (feeding of the crocodile, Jaw), underwater gharial exhibit and night safari.
Location: Post Bag No 4, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104.
Entry-Fee: INR 60 for adults and INR 30 for children below 10. Night Safari tickets charge around INR 200.
Timing: 9 am to 5:30 pm (Tuesday to Sunday. Monday is a holiday). Ticket booking closes at 5 pm.
Best time to visit: One can here at any time of the year.
Located within the Meenakshi Temple premises, Raya Gopuram was constructed during the time of Raya clan. This is the only pillar which is half-constructed but still, Raya Gopuram is the most beautiful one among all the other Gopurams. It is the most unique architectural feature of the Meenakshi Temple.
This particular gopuram stands on the West direction of the Meenakshi Temple and from one view, the appearance of the temple becomes captivating due to its specific carvings and half-construction. This is a major and majestic attraction for the tourists visiting the Meenakshi temple.
This particular gopuram stands on the West direction of the Meenakshi Temple and from one view, the appearance of the temple becomes captivating due to its specific carvings and half-construction. This is a major and majestic attraction for the tourists visiting the Meenakshi temple.
Location: Mada Koil St, Mahabalipuram- 603104, Tamil Nadu
Entry-Fee:
- For Indians- Rs. 10/- per person
- For Foreigners- Rs. 340/- per person
- Children (Below 15 years)- Free
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: Due to its unique location, Raya Gopuram can be visited at any time of the year.
Located near the Mahishamardini cave on the south side of Mamallapuram hill, Shri Dharmaraja Cave Temple has a facade, Ardha-mandapa and mukh-mandapa alike the Kotikal cave. A space for the two mandapas was created by four-faced slim pillars.
The Ardha-mandapa was built three inches above the mukha-mandapa. The inner hall leads to three shrine cells belonging to Lord Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. It has the best carvings on the stone and also is a great place to visit with your family and kids. This is located just next to the lighthouse but its location on the top of the hill made it more attractive among the visitors as one can get picturesque views from the temple.
The Ardha-mandapa was built three inches above the mukha-mandapa. The inner hall leads to three shrine cells belonging to Lord Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. It has the best carvings on the stone and also is a great place to visit with your family and kids. This is located just next to the lighthouse but its location on the top of the hill made it more attractive among the visitors as one can get picturesque views from the temple.
Location: Cave Temples, Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu
Entry-Fee:
- For Indians- Rs. 35/- per person
- For Foreigners- Rs. 550/- per person
- For SAARC Visitors- Rs. 35/- per person
- For BIMSTEC Visitors- Rs. 35/- per person
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Located on the East Coast Road in between Chennai and Puducherry, Karukathamman Temple is one of the most important historical temples of Mahabalipuram. Goddess Karu Katha Amman is worshipped here whose statue appears to be a sitting position where she can be seen holding a lot of weapons in her hands and also pressing the demon under the feet of her.
This temple is a small one compared to the other ones of Mahabalipuram. However, it boosts your spiritual energy a lot once you visit this place. It is a very famous, old and traditional temple which was renovated recently. One can always feel the cool breeze blowing here because of its location near the sea.
This temple is a small one compared to the other ones of Mahabalipuram. However, it boosts your spiritual energy a lot once you visit this place. It is a very famous, old and traditional temple which was renovated recently. One can always feel the cool breeze blowing here because of its location near the sea.
Location: 176, Tirukalukundram Rd, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Entry-Fee: Not applicable
Timing: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit this place is in the months of July-August.
Mahishasura rock is one of the best points of interest in Mahabalipuram. Located at a corner of the Sea Shore Temple complex, this carved rock is the maximum left out a portion of the archaeological sculptures of Mahabalipuram.
This rock has the carvings of a Lion face which was done to attract the tourists from all around the globe and also to spread the stories of Pallava dynasty at every nook of the world. Offering a lucrative view of the sea, this place is quite alluring for the visitors. The presence of Mahishasura rock is difficult to understand and thus quite often, the people end up to miss this sight as it looks like a lonely rock when seen from a distance.
This rock has the carvings of a Lion face which was done to attract the tourists from all around the globe and also to spread the stories of Pallava dynasty at every nook of the world. Offering a lucrative view of the sea, this place is quite alluring for the visitors. The presence of Mahishasura rock is difficult to understand and thus quite often, the people end up to miss this sight as it looks like a lonely rock when seen from a distance.
Location: Republic of India, Shore Temple Rd, Fisherman Colony, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Entry-Fee: Not applicable
Timing: Not applicable
Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit this place is from November to February.
Just as the name indicates, Panch Pandav Gufa temple is dedicated to the five Pandava brothers. The cave is set amidst tall mountains and was discovered by the late Baba Narayandas in the year 1949. A plight of steps down takes one towards the cave having such a narrow entrance that one needs to bend about 1/3rd of his height to enter the cave temple.
Inside the temple, one can find shrines dedicated to Mata Hinglaj, Lord Shiva, Sita Ma, Ram-Laxman, Lord Hanuman and Goddess Durga. The calm ambiance of the place and the panoramic views of the city of Somnath that one can enjoy from the temple make it one of the must-visit places to visit in Somnath.
Location: Prabhas Patan, Somnath, Gujarat
Timing: 08.00 AM - 06.00 PM
Best Time to Visit: November to June
Mahabalipuram Reviews
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Reviewed: 22 Dec 2024
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Reviewed: 17 Sep 2021
5.0/5
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Reviewed: 18 Jul 2021
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Booked: Chariot Beach Resort, Mahabalipuram | Luxury Staycation Deal
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Reviewed: 07 Jul 2021
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Reviewed: 20 Mar 2021
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Mahabalipuram FAQ's
Which are the best places to visit in Mahabalipuram in 2 days?
Descent of the Ganges: Carved on two monolith rock boulders, this is a gigantic relief. This UNESCO Heritage site denotes the Ganges descending from the hair of Lord Shiva along with hundreds of animals, half-gods, and kinnara figurines carved intricately.
Shore Temple: Built in 700 AD, named after its location that overlooks the Bay of Bengal shores, this is one of the oldest structural rock-cut temple complexes in Southern India. A part of the Seven Pagodas legend dating to the time of Marco Polo, the temple is famous for its intricate shrines, stone sculptures, and the annual dance festival.
India Seashell Museum: The largest such museum in India, the place displays over 40,000 species of shells including the Breath Maria, which is one of the 4 such existing shells in the world. You can enjoy a fish pedicure and buy pearl jewellery here.
Lighthouse: This 18th-century lighthouse is famous for its masonry architecture and the nearby 640 AD lighthouse, the first-ever built in the country. The top of the tower offers fantastic views of the surrounding sea.
Shore Temple: Built in 700 AD, named after its location that overlooks the Bay of Bengal shores, this is one of the oldest structural rock-cut temple complexes in Southern India. A part of the Seven Pagodas legend dating to the time of Marco Polo, the temple is famous for its intricate shrines, stone sculptures, and the annual dance festival.
India Seashell Museum: The largest such museum in India, the place displays over 40,000 species of shells including the Breath Maria, which is one of the 4 such existing shells in the world. You can enjoy a fish pedicure and buy pearl jewellery here.
Lighthouse: This 18th-century lighthouse is famous for its masonry architecture and the nearby 640 AD lighthouse, the first-ever built in the country. The top of the tower offers fantastic views of the surrounding sea.
What is famous in Mahabalipuram?
Mahabalipuram is one of the oldest cities in India famous for its rich and unique architectural heritage of rock-cut monuments, culture, monoliths, and beaches. The place is also known for offering the delectable Tamilian cuisine and seafood along with the local Kovai Kora and Kanchipuram textiles.
How do I spend a day in Mahabalipuram?
You can start your day by visiting the Shore Temple and the unique Tiger Cave, which is also considered to be a worship place. Visit the India Seashell Museum and spend time at the Descent of the Ganges monolith. End the day by enjoying beautiful sunset views at the Mahabalipuram beach as you enjoy delicious seafood.
What is the best time to visit Mahabalipuram?
Winter (October-February) is the best time to visit Mahabalipuram when the days are pleasant and night is cool and the temperatures range between 23-30°C. You can enjoy sightseeing, being on the beach, the annual Mahabalipuram Dance Festival that is held in December, and the world-famous celebrations of Pongal here.
How can I reach Mahabalipuram from Chennai?
Located around 58 kilometres from Chennai, the best way to travel between the two places is by road. You can self-drive or hire a cab to cover this 51-minute distance. The route goes through the Grand Southern Trunk Road and the East Coast Road.
Is one day enough for Mahabalipuram?
Yes, one day is enough to see this compact yet beautiful city and all its architectural wonders, temples, and relax at the beaches. You can also visit the local markets to shop for handicrafts & seashells jewellery and try a range of Tamilian cuisine.
What should I wear in Mahabalipuram?
While in the city, you can wear the usual clothes that you’d do anywhere else. However, when you are visiting the temples here, men are expected to wear a dhoti-kurta, and women are advised to wear a saree or suit.
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