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Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, is home to the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest surviving stone temple in South India, built in the 8th century during the Pallava dynasty. The temple has three main shrines—two dedicated to Shiva and one to Vishnu. Its intricate carvings showcase the skilled craftsmanship of ancient India. Set by the coastline, the Shore Temple offers stunning views and enhances the spiritual atmosphere, making it a beautiful and serene spot for both pilgrims and visitors.
Shore Temple Location
Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash
The Shore Temple is in Mahabalipuram, approximately 60 km south of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Perched on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, this ancient temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. It stands as a testament to the cultural heritage of the Pallava dynasty. Its scenic setting offers breathtaking coastline views, making it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims.
How To Reach Shore Temple
Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash
Visitors can follow these routes to reach the temple:
By Air: The nearest airport to the temple is the Chennai International Airport, approximately 60 km away. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available for hire to Mahabalipuram.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Chengalpattu, around 30 km from Mahabalipuram. Taxis and local buses connect Chengalpattu to the temple.
By Road: Mahabalipuram is well-connected by road, with frequent buses from Chennai and other nearby cities. Self-drive options are also popular, offering flexibility to explore the area.
Places To Visit Around Shore Temple
Here are some of the most interesting places to visit near the Shore Temple, to enhance your experience:
1. Pancha Rathas
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
The Pancha Rathas, or Five Chariots, are a set of monolithic rock temples carved during the 7th century at Mahabalipuram, India. Each ratha represents a different architectural style or a chariot carved out of one stone dedicated to figures from the Mahabharata. Such splendours have been named after the Pandavas and Draupadi, constructed to exemplify Dravidian architecture as a tribute to the artistic skills of the Pallava dynasty. Though not in good completeness, the Rathas are very ornamented sculpturally.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 for Indians, ₹500 for foreign tourists
2. Arjuna’s Penance
Photo: Sichu7 / Wikimedia Commons
Arjuna’s Penance, located in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, is a massive rock relief carving that dates back to the 7th century during the Pallava dynasty. Also known as the Descent of the Ganges, it stands over 43 feet high and 96 feet wide, depicting scenes from Indian mythology, including Arjuna performing penance to Lord Shiva for divine weapons and the descent of the sacred Ganges River to Earth. The intricate carvings feature gods, animals, and celestial beings, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 for Indians, ₹500 for foreign tourists
3. Krishna’s Butterball
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Mahabalipuram has a fascinating geological formation named Krishna’s Butterball. It is an enormous boulder that has fallen precariously on a slope and is still defying gravity, about 6 metres in height and 5 metres in width. It is believed that Lord Krishna stole butter and playfully worked in this place. The boulder is considered immovable, which is puzzling for visitors and scientists alike for so long. All efforts aside to try to dislodge it, the Butterball remains ensconced firmly to this day and hence has become one of the most visited tourist attractions.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Mahabalipuram Beach
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Mahabalipuram Beach is a picture-perfect quiet retreat along the Bay of Bengal, with golden sands, calm waves, and ancient monuments forming a backdrop. So, it is pretty suitable for relaxation, swimming, or playing beach games. Shore Temple, can also be seen from the beach, thus giving it a touch of history and scenery. The lively fishing village next door, coupled with fresh seafood they will have delivered on the doorstep, adds to the authentic charm, which could make it a must-visit destination for history lovers and beachgoers alike.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
5. Varaha Temple
Photo: Chaudhariswanit / Wikimedia Commons
The Varaha Cave Temple in Mahabalipuram is a small yet intricately carved rock-cut temple, dating back to the 7th century Pallava dynasty. This cave temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha (boar) avatar, a significant figure in Hindu mythology. Inside the temple, detailed carvings depict Vishnu lifting Bhudevi, the Earth goddess, from the ocean, symbolising the Varaha incarnation saving the Earth from chaos. The cave’s walls also feature beautiful reliefs of other deities like Durga and Gajalakshmi.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM.
Entry Fee: Indian citizens: ₹40 and Foreign nationals: ₹600
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visitors to the Shore Temple can find various accommodation options to suit different budgets. Budget travellers may consider Hotel Sea Breeze, which offers basic amenities and easy access to the temple. For those seeking mid-range options, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay provides luxurious stays with stunning ocean views and excellent dining options. Luxury travellers can stay at Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa, renowned for its abundant facilities and beachfront location, ensuring a memorable experience in Mahabalipuram.
Where To Eat
Photo: Jack Baghel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Dining near the temple offers a delightful experience with numerous eateries serving local cuisine. The Bay View Restaurant at the Radisson Blu Resort is known for its fresh seafood and panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. For a more casual dining experience, Hotel Mamallapuram serves authentic South Indian dishes and is a popular choice among tourists. Sandy’s Cafe offers a diverse menu, including Indian and continental dishes, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal after temple visits.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash
The best time to visit the Shore Temple is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the temple and surrounding attractions, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor activities without the sweltering heat of summer. The winter season is also perfect for experiencing local festivals and cultural events, enriching the overall visit.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of Trip
The cost of a trip to the Shore Temple can vary significantly based on individual preferences and travel styles. Budget travellers may spend approximately ₹5,000 to ₹8,000, covering transportation, entry fees, and basic accommodation. Mid-range travellers might expect to spend ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 for more comfortable lodging and meals at local restaurants. Luxury travellers could easily exceed ₹20,000, indulging in high-end accommodations and fine dining experiences, ensuring a lavish exploration of Mahabalipuram.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as the temple complex involves a fair amount of walking.
- Carry cash for entry fees, as some smaller establishments may not accept cards.
- Respect the temple rules and customs, including dress codes.
- Visit early in the day to enjoy a quieter experience and avoid crowds.
- Capture the beauty of the temple through photography, as it’s permitted within the premises.
The Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram offers a captivating experience with its stunning architecture and rich history. Surrounded by other cultural treasures, it’s an ideal destination for those eager to explore India’s vibrant heritage. Visitors can experience the timeless beauty of this ancient marvel while exploring nearby attractions that enhance its charm. Plan your visit today with TripXL to witness the architectural brilliance of this Temple.
Cover Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash
