Mahabalipuram is an ancient historic town located in Kancheepuram district of Tamilnadu. Other names of this town are Mallapuram and Mamallapattana. Mahabalipuram means city of Great Bali. This place is famous for Stone temples and Stone Carvings. Almost all are built between 7th century and 9th century. Narashimhavarman, Pallava King played a major role in the development of this town during 17th century. Britishers established Modern Mahabalipuram in 1827. Vibrant fence festival is most famous in this town. Stone Sculptures are worth buying at this place.
What to see in Mahabalipuram:
Five Rathas: It is a rock cut temple. This is named after Pandavas in Mahabharata which was built in 7th century. Pallavas built this temple. Five Rathas consists of status of 5 brothers on Pandavas including their wife Draupadi.
Shore Temple: 3 temples are located here, two temples belong to Lord Shiva and one temple belongs to Lord Vishnu. These temples belong to 8th century. Pallavas had constructed these temples in Dravidian style. Granite was used to build the temples.
Mahabalipuram Beach: It is one of the major attractions of the city. Most popular activities in the beach are motor Boating, Surfing, Diving and Sunbathing. Near this beach rock cut temples and Monolithic Rathas can also be seen.
Mahishamardini Cave: It is located in Chingleput district of Mahabalipuram. These caves belong to 8th century and it was dedicated to Mother Goddess. In the centre of the cave major attraction are Carvings of Murugan, Parvati and Shiva.
Descent of the Ganges: It is the rock cut monument belongs to 7th century. This place is famous for open air rock sculptures and Carvings.
Arjuna Penance: This place is famous for the carvings belong to 7th and 8th centuries. Height of this penance is 9meters and 30 meters long. Carvings of this penance belong to animals, birds and Gods.
Trimurti Cave Temple: It is located near Ganesha Ratha. Idols of Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu are placed here. This is most ancient rock cut temple which was built in 7th century.
Krishna’s Butterball: It is a large rock balanced on the hill side. Diameter of this rock is around 5m.
Other places to visit in Mahabalipuram: Other places to visit in Mahabalipuram are Dakshinachitra, Mamallapuram Light House, Mumu Surf Shop, Sculpture museum, Ganesh Ratha Temple, Dharmaraja Cave, and Little Art Gallery.
What to see around Mahabalipuram:
Varaha Cave Temple: This place is famous for the sculptures of Earth Goddess, Holding Bhudevi, and Lord Vishnu. This temple is dedicated to Lord Varaha who is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It was built in 7th century which is 27kms away from the temple.
Tigers Cave: It is located 5kms away from Mahabalipuram. This is rock cut temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
The Crocodile Bank: It is located 14kms away from Mahabalipuram. Snake Farm, African Alligators, Indian Alligators are major attractions of this place.
Thirukalukundram: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located 15kms away from Mahabalipuram. Inscriptions in ancient Indian, English and Dutch Languages can be seen here.
Getting to Mahabalipuram: Only way to reach this place is by road. From cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Delhi buses are available to reach this place. Nearest railway station is located at Chengalpattu which is 29kms away from Mahabalipuram. Nearest airport is Chennai International Airport.
Getting around Mahabalipuram: Mahabalipuram is a small town. All the places in the town are very near to each other. So, best way to see the places in Mahabalipuram is on foot. Taxis and buses are available to visit the places near Mahabalipuram.
Best time to visit Mahabalipuram: Best time to visit this place is between October to March.
Where to stay in Mahabalipuram: Plenty of hotels are available to stay in Mahabalipuram. As beach is located in this town resorts are also available to stay near the beach.
Where to eat in Mahabalipuram: Plenty of restaurants are available to eat in Mahabalipuram. Almost all the restaurants offer non vegetarian. Vegetarian food is available on demand.