RUINS OF MAHABALIPURAM

Mahabalipuram is a ancient sea port 50 KM from the City of Chennai. The group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram was founded by the Pallava kings in the 7th and 8th centuries.It is known especially for its rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries) and thousands of sculptures that glorify Lord Shiva.

Shore Temple, Mahabaliruram

The Shore temple was also called the “7 pagodas” due to the striking resemblance to the Chinese tower structure called the Pagoda.

My visit to Mahabs as it popularly known was very brief , I reached the shore temple at around 5 pm and all the temple close by 5:30 pm. Unfortunately I did not get to see the rest of the monuments.

Things to See

• Five Rathas
• Arjuna’s Penance
• Shore Temple
• Varaha Cave Temple

Things to Do

• Visit the Monuments of Mahabalipuram
• Click away , if you love shooting old buildings temples etc
• Chill at the beach
• Pig out in Moonrakers restraunt close to the beach, they serve good sea food

Warning

• Tripods not allowed in the temple complex
• Timings 7:00 am -5:30 pm
• Try not to go on a weekends or on public holidays as it gets really crowed

Mahabhalipuram is a must see destination if you go to the city of Chennai , its a perfect weekend get away . You have the beach, ancient monuments and luxury resorts ; all this at a two hour drive from the city. I would recommend spending about half a day at Mahabs and its on the way from Chennai to Pondicherry which is another must see destination in South India .