Mahabalipuram Travel Guide
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a sea-side town in Kanchipuram district in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Mahabalipuram is located at the distance of 60 km south of Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, India. With its scenic backdrop on a rock-strewn outcrop between the coastline and a lagoon, Mahabalipuram is one of the greatest architectural and sculptural destinations in India. The sea-side town of Mahabalipuram enjoys the perfect combination of rich history, lovely beaches, peaceful tourism and amazing maritime cuisine.
During the period around the seventh and eighth centuries, Mahabalipuram was the capital of Pallava dynasties. It is said that Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, derives its name from the name of Pallava king Mamalla. There are several historic monuments in Mahabalipuram. The major attractions of Mahabalipuram are its sea-shore temples which have been classified as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The city is also known for its spectacularly carved sculptures. Tourists from all around the world come to Mahabalipuram for exploring the temples of Mahabalipuram. Apart from temples, carved sculptures, and historic monuments, Mahabalipuram is also known for its exceptional natural beauty and lovely beaches. Truly, it is a picture perfect holiday destination.
Some major attractions in Mahabalipuram
Arjuna Penance: It is one of the largest reliefs made on two huge rock-stones in the sea-shore town of Mahabalipuram. It is the most famous sculpture art of Mahabalipuram. This wonder sculptured in rock has exhaustive carvings, depicting the most mesmerizing and natural interpretation of animals. It also shows scenes from Panchtantra written by Vishnu Sharma in the 2nd century. It was named after Arjuna, one of the five Pandava brothers. It is believed that Arjuna completed his penance here standing on one leg. During your travel to Mahabalipuram, you shouldn’t miss to visit the Arjuna Penance.
Shore Temples: Shore temples are the major landmarks of Mahabalipuram. Perhaps your tour will be said incomplete without paying a visit to shore temples. Shore temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. These temples are architecturally beautiful. During your travel to Mahabalipuram, you should not miss to visit shore temples.
Krishna
Mandapam: It is also one of the major landmarks of Mahabalipuram. It is one of the ancient rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple shows scenes from rustic life. There is the image of Lord Krishna raising the hill of Govardhana in his fingertip to guard his natives from Indra.
How to reach Mahabalipuram
By Air: To arrive in Mahabalipuram, the nearest airport is in Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, India. Chennai is well-connected by both domestic and international air-terminus.
By Rail: To arrive in Mahabalipuram, there are two major railway stations - Chenagalpattu (29 km) and Chennai (58 km). Chennai is well-connected by rail from all the major cities of India.
By Road: Mahabalipuram is well-connected by a good network of roads with the cities like Pondicherry, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram and Chennai. Hiring a taxi from Chennai is the best way to reach Mahabalipuram. Bus services are also available from these cities.
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