Mahabalipuram
is one of history's intriguing enigmas. The ancient Mamallapuram, as
Mahabalipuram was formerly known, was flourishing port town of the Pallava
rulers of south India who chiseled in stone a fabulous "open-air museum" of
sculpture under the vault of a burning
 sky. Apart from this, nothing is known of
the place. What was the purpose behind this whole exercise, and, more important,
why all the royal patronage this place enjoyed suddenly disappeared, no one
actually has any answer.
Experts say that there were seven pagodas or temples on the shores of
Mahabalipuram. All but one were pillaged by the rapacious sea, though there is
little underwater evidence to substantiate their existence.
Most of the temples and rock carvings of this place were built during the reigns
of Narsinha Varman I (AD 630-668) and Narsinha Varman II (AD 700-728). Though
the initial kings of Pallava dynasty were followers of Jainism, the conversion
of Mahendra Varman (AD 600-630) to Shaivism led most of the monuments to be
related with Shiva or Vishnu.
GENERAL INFORMATION
- Area : 8 sq. km
- Population : 12,049
- Languages : Tamil and English
- Best time to visit : October to March
- STD code : 04114
Best Season, Climate, and Clothing
The climate of Mahabalipuram remains hot and sultry throughout the year with a
maximum temperature of 35°C and a minimum of 19°C. The best time to visit this
place is during October to March. One is advised to avoid the monsoon period.
PLACES TO VISIT
- Arjuna's Penance
- Rathas
- Krishna Mandapam
-
Shore Temple
- Kanchipuram
- Vedanthangal
- Covelong
- Crocodile Bank
-
Muttukadu
HOW TO GET THERE?
By Air
The nearest airport from Mahabalipuram is Chennai (Madras), located around 60 km
away. One can get flights for almost all major destinations in India and abroad.
By Rail
The nearest railway station, Chengalpattu, is around 29 km away from
Mahabalipuram. Trains for Chennai and several other major cities in South India
are available from here.
By Road
Mahabalipuram / Mamallapuram is connected by road to Chennai, Tirukkalikundram (Pakshithirtham),
Kanchipuram (65 km), and Pondicherry.
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