Mahabalipuram Tourist Places: The Beauty of Nature with Ancient Architectural Marvels

Mahabalipuram is famous for its sophisticated carved temples and rock-cut caves, Mahabalipuram is a historically important and well-known tourist location located on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, in the state of Tamil Nadu. Once the home of the famous demon king Mahabali, Mahabalipuram which was later renamed Mamallapuram. 

Important tourist spots include the UNESCO world heritage site Group of Monuments like the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas, the Crocodile Bank which is has some exquisite species of crocodiles and alligators, and the beach resorts in Kovalam and Sadras.

Arjuna's Penance

The Arjuna's Penance is a huge rock-cut relief, which is one of the largest in the whole world, located in Mahabalipuram of Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu. The Arjuna's Penance is also known by the name 'Descent of the Ganges' because the structure showcases either or both of these two significant and symbolic events of Hindu mythology, thus making it a famous attractive spot among historians, scholars, academics as well as tourists.

Five Rathas

The Five Rathas, also known as Panch Rathas, is a set of rock temples. They are build in Dravidian style architecture. These temples are built in the same shape as pagodas, and greatly resemble Buddhist shrines and monasteries. The first ratha that is located right by the entrance gate is Draupadi's Ratha. Next is the Arjuna's Rath, which has a small portico and carved pillar stones, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

In front of Arjuna's Rath is the Nakula Sahadev Rath, The ratha has some huge elephant sculptures included that are a huge draw for the Five Rathas. It is dedicated to the God of Rain, Lord Indra. The Bhima Rath is huge, measuring 42 ft in length, 24ft in width, and 25ft in height. The largest of the Five Rathas is the Dharamraja Yudhistar's Rath. 

Shore Temple 

The Temple was built during the 7th century, Shore Temple is one of the oldest South Indian temples constructed in the Dravidian style. The art work of the temple has been listed in the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. 

Crocodile Bank

The Crocodile Bank is just 14 kms from Mahabalipuram. The place holds many species of Indian and African alligators and crocodiles. They are kept in open pools that are similar to their natural habitat. This Crocodile Conservation Center is the most popular site to visit at Crocodile Bank. 

Read More: Top Tamilnadu Tourist Places

Tiger Caves

Tigers Caves located on the shore of the Bay of Bengal, has been a recreation spot since ages where locals relax after their 5Kms trek from Mahabalipuram to this idyllic location out of the town. The caves got this name from the crown of 11 tigers heads which were all carved at the entrance. One of the most attractive features of the caves is a carving of Goddess Durga on top of these tigers. The grounds of the park are well-maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India thereby making the Tiger Caves a top tourist attraction. 

Mahabalipuram Beach

The Mahabalipuram Beach is just 58 km from Chennai city in Tamil Nadu. This beautiful beach has golden sand all along the stretch and is also famous for caves, massive rathas, chariots and temples. The beach is a haven for water sport lovers, are bound to have a beautiful time at the beach. There are many resorts along the beach offering delicious food.

Also, at this enchanting beauty of Mahabalipuram, a dance festival is organized by the Department of Tourism of the Government of Tamil Nadu every year, where highly talented classical dancers perform against the backdrop of the sea.

Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple 

Build in Dravidian style, The Sthalasayana Perumal Temple also called Thirukadalmallai, which is one of the 108 Divyadesam dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Worshiped here as Sthalasayana Perumal with his consort Lakshmi as Nilamangai Thayar. A yearly festival of Bhoothatazhwar Avata festival is also celebrated here during the month of Aipasi (October-November).

Read More: Top Chennai Tourist Places

Best Time to Visit Mahabalipuram

The best time to visit Mahabalipuram is between October to March, in the winters. The climate remains good with warm days and cold nights, ideal for outdoor activities and for exploring the town, making the area even more beautiful, making it an ideal time to visit Mahabalipuram. Travelling to Mahabalipuram during summers is avoided because of the high temperatures and the exhausting heat.

Conclusion 

Travelling to Mahabalipuram is a place which combines the beauty of nature with ancient architectural marvels. From traveling to awesome Shore Temple to the Tiger Caves each tourist spot in Mahabalipuram has a special story to tell and leaves a unique impression on traveler. So pack your bags and plan your trip to Mahabalipuram and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this captivating destination making a memorable experience.