9 Authentic reasons to visit Mahabalipuram

The town of Mahabalipuram boasts of having several UNESCO declared world heritage sites that are worth the visit. But you need to plan your itinerary in advance along with booking the top resorts in mahabalipuram. It is also referred to as Mammallapuram and is located in India’s eastern coast in the state of Tamil Nadu. This region\ is popularly stated to be the home to several rock-cut monuments that were constructed during the 7^th & 8^th centuries by the rulers of the Pallava dynasty. Most structure\s here are much older than the monuments present at Hampi, thus making the place quite enticing.

Background

Its history is somewhat shrouded in charming mystery. So does its name and cause for its ruin. This region was once termed as land of the 7 pagodas. There is a common belief that seven temples existed on the shores out of which six got submerged by the sea. The existence of the 6 pagodas came to light only after the tragic Tsunami incident of 2004. As the waves receded, the waters took along with it the sediments that were deposited for here for centuries. This revealed several rock structures for some time that got submerged by sea once again. However, with the sand deposits changing permanently the coastline, a few structures were left uncovered and ready to be explored by historians and the common people alike. Thus, the age old myths surrounding the seven pagodas got revealed.

The Pallava kings intentionally chose this sacred place to carve several rock cut temples to honour the much revered Hindu Goddesses and Gods. However, the main deity here is Lord Vishnu and hence, most temples here are dedicated to this god. Also exist temples dedicated to lord Shiva, Ganesha, Goddess Durga and others. You can also get to check out several stories that depict numerous Puranic lores on the rocks scattered here and there. Unfortunately, very few documents exist to portray the lifestyle led by the people during those days as well as the wonders that they had constructed. But excavation has revealed several sculptures and coins that show Mahabalipuram to be a flourishing trade hub before the Pallava dynasty came to power. This history and mystery surrounding the region is enough to compel all types of travellers to come and explore it.

Things to do when in Mahabalipuram

• Pancha Rathas: It is stated to be the very symbol of Mahabalipuram and depicts five monolith stone chariots, but without any visible wheels. It is rather a tribute to the Pandava brothers from the epic Mahabharata. Besides the ornate chariots, you should also check out Nandi (Bull) and Airavat (elephant). The rock colours are quite identical to that of the sand beneath, thus making the entire sight to appear magical. There is a small entry fee to be paid along with car parking fees.
• Shore Temple: It is among the celebrated icons of the region and is among the 7 legendary pagodas that once existed here. This edifice was constructed during the 8^th century and had withstood countless natural calamities. The temple structure is constructed in a manner that the sun’s first rays falls on its presiding deity, namely, Lord Shiva. There is an entry fee to be paid along with parking charges. Entry fee also includes beach entry.
• Roya Gopuram: It is constructed near the cave temples on the way to Krishna’s butterball. In the Tamil language, Gopuram means ‘Gate’. This unfinished temple is constructed on a hill top. Its intricate carved gates offer a frame, something that no photographer can resist.
• Cave Temple Complex: This cave temple is dedicated to Mahishasur Mardini and reaching the hill top will allow you to discover several unfinished and finished rock cut temples. Being inside a single cave temple, they are easy to navigate since there are different signboards kept here to guide tourists providing proper information. A few ancient shrines here are the Ramanuja Mandapam, Varaha Cave and Krishna Mandapam.
• Krishna’s Butterball: There is a huge boulder that has derived this rather funny name. However, one view of this boulder will make you to be dumfounded as it remains balanced precariously on the rocks, thereby defying gravity law apparently. Some scientific reasons probably exist to it while some consider it to be magic. You can pose a photo while acting like pushing the boulder. Close to the boulder is a small slippery slope that children use to play like a slide.
• Decent of the Ganges or Arjuna’s penance: It is considered to be the among the world’s largest open air bas relief architecture. You can get to see elaborate pink granite sculpture depicting a particular Mahabharata episode. Another popular belief is about the story of Ganga’s descent. The sculpture present adjacent to it is likely to grab your attention. You can find fine detailing of wildlife that includes a monkey trying to pick lice from its kid’s head.
• Maritime heritage museum: Close to the caves is located this quaint little museum. Here, you can get to know the story of Mammalapuram’s rich maritime history. Also are exhibited a few shop models of the past, old anchors, artilleries and much more. Outside this air-conditioned building is a well maintained, but small, lively garden filled with colourful flowers. There is an entry fee along with a camera fee.
• Mahabalipuram Lighthouse: Mahabalipuram is much more than mere temple hopping. You can visit the lighthouse close to the Majhisasur Mardini cave. It is considered to be the region’s highest observatory allowing you to get the town’s 360 degree panoramic view.
• Seashell Museum: This museum is cited to be the largest one to have ever to be established in Asia. It exhibits different types of shells, fossils and corals that are collected single-handedly by Raja Mohammed. You can get to see 40,000+ specimens of exotic, rare seashells, whale fins, shark teeth along with other fossils. You need to pay a small entry fee.

The top listed resorts in mahabalipuram are the ones that you should seek to stay in during your visit.