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The Mahabalipuram Temple, also called the Shore Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. This ancient temple was built in the 7th century during the Pallava dynasty. It shows beautiful Dravidian architecture with detailed stone carvings inside the temple and beautifully engraved sculptures. It is located by the Bay of Bengal and it is one of the oldest stone temples in South India. The town also has rock-cut caves, chariot-shaped temples , and amazing sculptures which make it a must-visit place in Mahabalipuram for anyone who is interested in history, art and spirituality.
Location
Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash
Mahabalipuram Temple is located in Mahabalipuram which is also Known as Mamallapuram. It is a coastal town about 60 kilometres south of Chennai. It is located by the Bay of Bengal. The town is easy to reach from major cities like Chennai and Pondicherry which makes it a best stop for both local and international visitors. Its seaside location gives the temple a unique and beautiful view, with the ocean as a beautiful background.
How To Reach
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Reaching Mahabalipuram Temple is very easy because of its accessibility via plane, train, and road:
By Air: The nearest airport to Mahabalipuram is Chennai International Airport, roughly 60 kilometres away. Chennai is well-connected with major Indian cities and international locations. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus to Mahabalipuram, which takes roughly 1.5 hours by road.
By Train: Mahabalipuram has a different railway station. However, the nearest station is Chengalpattu Junction, roughly 30 kilometres away. It is connected to Chennai and other regions of Tamil Nadu by many trains to reach the Mahabalipuram Temple. From Chengalpattu, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Mahabalipuram.
By Road: Mahabalipuram is well-connected, and you can quickly drive or take a bus from Chennai that is 60 km, Pondicherry is 100 km, or other surrounding places. Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) offers daily buses to Mahabalipuram temple from Chennai and other towns, making road travel a great choice.
Places To Visit In And Around Mahabalipuram
Besides the amazing Mahabalipuram Temple, there are many other interesting places to visit around. Here are five must-visit spots you shouldn’t miss:
1. Shore Temple
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The Shore Temple is the most famous monument near Mahabalipuram Temple, built in the 7th century. It is made from granite and is located on the sea coast by surviving the rough coastal weather over the centuries. The temple is dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, which make it an unique temple in Mahabalipuram. Its detailed carvings of idols , and mythological stories make it a masterpiece structure of ancient Indian architecture. Visitors love to gather here at sunset to see the temple’s beauty in the evening.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 for Indian adults, ₹600 for foreign adults
2. Pancha Rathas
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The Pancha Rathas are five rock-cut structures shaped like chariots, each is named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. These temples are carved from single pieces of stone, showing the impressive skill of the Pallava dynasty. Each Ratha has unique carvings and decorations that display the talents of ancient craftsmen. Although they were never used for worship, they are important symbols of Dravidian architecture and ancient engineering. This UNESCO World Heritage site attracts history lovers and tourists from all over the world.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 For Indian adults, ₹600 For foreign adults.
3. Arjuna’s Penance
Photo: Deepavali Gaind / Unsplash
Arjuna’s Penance is also known as the Descent of the Ganges which is a large rock carving that stands 43 feet high and 96 feet long. This Beautiful structure shows the story of Arjuna performing intense Spiritual practice to receive a blessing from Lord Shiva. It also depicts the drop of the Ganges River to Earth. The carving includes detailed images of gods, and celestial beings which showcase the incredible skill of Pallava dynasty artists. It is one of the largest and most detailed rock sculptures in the world, and its creativity and craftsmanship are truly impressive.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Krishna’s Butterball
Photo: Dominik Vanyi / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Krishna’s Butterball is a huge, unusual rock that looks like it’s balancing on a slope, almost as if it is going against gravity. According to legends, Lord Krishna placed this giant rock on the hill when he was young. People are amazed by its unusual position, and it’s now one of the most popular photo spots in Mahabalipuram. The Butterball is surrounded by green lawns, making it a great place to sit and enjoy the scenery. Families especially enjoy visiting for its interesting history and fun photo opportunities.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
5. Varaha Cave Temple
Photo: Abhimanyu Shivkumar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Varaha CaveG Temple is another fine example of the rock-cut architecture. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, shown in his Varaha form in a detailed sculpture inside the cave. The temple also features beautiful carvings of different mythological figures and stories. These carvings display artistic skill and stand as a proof to the creativity of the Pallava dynasty. As it is smaller than other temples, Varaha Cave holds great importance and provides a peaceful spot for those interested in art, history, and spirituality.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 For Indian adults, ₹600 For foreign adults
Where To Stay
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Mahabalipuram has many hotel options, from simple lodges to luxury resorts. Many hotels and resorts offer rooms with sea views that give guests a beautiful look at the Bay of Bengal. It is a good idea to book your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist times or festival seasons, to avoid any last-minute stress. Options range from budget-friendly hotels like Padma Laxmi Guest House to high price resorts like Valley View resort with more facilities, so you can choose based on your needs and budget. Mahabalipuram has many choices to make your visit enjoyable whether you’re looking for comfort or luxury.
Where To Eat
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Mahabalipuram is famous for its delicious South Indian food. You’ll have lots of choices to enjoy here. You can try traditional Tamil dishes like idli, dosa, and fresh seafood, along with different foods from around the world. Many restaurants and small local places like My Goodness cafe that serve traditional meals at affordable prices, which makes it easy for you to taste the local flavours during your trip. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, you’ll find plenty of tasty options to satisfy your hunger in this beautiful coastal town like the Sea Rock Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
Visiting Mahabalipuram Temple is quite affordable. The entry fee is typically around INR 40 for Indian nationals and INR 600 for foreign tourists. Accommodation options in Mahabalipuram range from INR 1,000 to 5,000 per night, depending on the type of lodging you prefer. For a weekend trip for two, including accommodation, meals, and transportation, the average cost of the trip would be between INR 5,000 and 10,000. This makes Mahabalipuram an excellent choice for a short and budget-friendly getaway, allowing you to experience stunning historical views in the coastal region.
Tips For Travellers
- The temple complex may require walking over uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are essential.
- Carry a water bottle to keep hydrated, especially during hot days.
- Mahabalipuram can experience sudden rains, so it’s a good idea to have an umbrella or raincoat handy during the monsoon season.
- Be mindful of local traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Dress modestly and behave respectfully.
- To help preserve the temple and its surroundings, opt for environmentally friendly materials and avoid littering.
Mahabalipuram Temple showcases India’s rich history and stunning architecture. With its well engraved carvings and rock-cut design by the beach, it’s a special spot for visitors and history lovers. Whether you’re interested in ancient myths or want to enjoy the calm coastal views, Mahabalipuram offers a memorable experience. For a perfect holiday, plan your trip with TripXL for the best travel deals and unique experiences in Mahabalipuram.
Cover Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash
