Mahabalipuram Tour

Mahabalipuram, now officially known as Mamallapuram, was referred to as ?the land of seven pagodas? by the age-old mariners. Once a major seaport of the Pallava Kingdom, this sea-splayed town is now known for its beautiful shore temples, mysterious caves and gorgeous beaches. Its exquisite UNESCO-listed monuments, when lit up at dusk, emanate a surreal radiance.

Major Attractions of Mahabalipuram

Shore Temple
Standing tall for centuries, battling the waves and emerging victorious on all counts- this twin-towered Shore Temple is the epitome of skilled craftsmanship of the Pallava artists. Its two shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva and marked by exquisitely carved Nandi (Shiva?s vehicle). In another shrine, Lord Vishnu sleeps on the floor, serenaded by the sounds of the sea, while a magnificently carved Goddess Durga sits on the temple's south side.

Panch Rathas
Literally meaning five chariots, this complex houses five chariots dedicated to Panadava brothers from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Each of these monolithic structures, magnificently chiseled and intricately carved, is a thing of beauty and grace.

Arjun?s Penance
An open air structure, this exquisitely carved bas relief on two big rocks, depicts an extract from the Hindu epic Mahabharata that describes the pains undertaken & austerities performed by Arjuna to obtain Lord Shiva?s celestial weapon. Approximately 43ft high and stretching up to a 100ft in length, is a brilliant work of art.

Mahishamardini Mandapa
The main feature of this cave is the intricate carving of Goddess Durga on her lion, defeating & killing the demon Mahishasur. Other carvings include those of Lord Vishnu and Lord Murugan along with his parents Shiva & Goddess Parvati.

Krishna Mandapa
Resplendent with a stunning colonnade, this rock craved temple depicts the mythical tale of Lord Krishna lifting Govardhana Hill above his head, to provide shelter to the villagers from Indra's wrath in the form of rain & storm.

Thirukadalmallai Temple
The dazzling white Gopuram of Thirukadalmallai Temple radiates in all its glory above the skyline of Mahabalipuram. Built around 6th -8th century by the Pallava kings, this striking Vishnu shrine is steeped in various myths and legends.

Mahabalipuram Beach
Soak in the waters of Mahabalipuram at this gorgeous beach. Just laze around, try your chances on a surf board or go looking for sea turtles- all of it is lots of fun.

Other Attractions of Mahabalipuram

• Tiger Caves
• Varaha Mandapa- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu
• Trimurthi Cave Temple- Devoted to the Hindu divine trinity of Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu
• Mahabalipuram Light House
• Ganesha Ratham- An exquisite monolith in pink granite.
• Crocodile Bank- home to exotic species of crocodiles and alligators
• Sea-Shell Museum

Fairs and Festivals of Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram Dance Festival, Mahabalipuram- A classical dance festival.

Shopping in Mahabalipuram
Abiding by its tradition in stone, Mahabalipuram is known for sculptures and miniature replicas of temples; all carved in black stone, granite, and soft & grey soapstone.

Best Time to Visit
Mahabalipuram is best visited in the winter season from October to March.

How to Reach
By Air- Chennai International Airport, around 55kms from Mahabalipuram, connects Mahabalipuram to major cities across the globe.
By Rail- Chengalpattu, around 27kms from Mahabalipuram, is the closest railhead connecting Mahabalipuram to the cities in the region.
By Road- A well-maintained network of roads & highways connect Mahabalipuram to the nearby cities in the area.

The rock-cut elegance of Mahabalipuram is simply incredible. Book your Mahabalipuram Temple Tour Package with us and travel back to another age where gorgeous rock carvings and sculptures depict mythical tales and folklores.