Hotels Access Festivals Excursions General Info Places to Visit

Mamallapuram 60 kms, South of Chennai, nestling on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, was once a port of the Pallavas. The Pallavas have created many marvellous monuments with Sculptural Panels, Caves, Monolithic Rathas and Temples.

Once a thriving port trading with many distant nations, Pallava Chisels have breathed life into stone. The Pallavas art this place emphasises robust eatherly beauty, imbibed with life. These monumental splendours and sunny beach resorts attract tourists from all over the world.

General Information

Places of interest

Arjuna's Penance
This skilfully carved rock is the largest bas - relief sculpture in the world. It gets its name from the figure of an ascetic who is believed to be Arjuna, the hero of Mahabharata, doing penance to obtain a boon from Lord Siva. However, there are others who think that the figure is actually Bhagiratha who entreated Siva to let the river Ganges flow over the earth.

Five Rathas
There are five monolithic temples, each created in different style. They are also know as Pancha Pandava Rathas, and four of the Rathas are supposed to have scooped out of a single rock formation.

Tiger's Cave
It is 4 kms north of the main monument complex. It was an open air theatre, where cultural programmes are held. Though it is very near the sea, the place is serene and calm.

The Shore Temple
This is one of the oldest temples in South India. It belongs to the 8th Century AD and is a good example of the first phase of structural temples constructed in Dravidian style. The monuments are flood lit at night and so it is possible to enjoy their beauty after sunset.

Excursions

Kanchipuram (66kms)
West of Mamallapuram. This temple town was once the capital of the Pallava dynasty. The silk sarees produced here are renowned throughout the world.

Vedanthangal (53kms)
One of the major water bird sanctuaries in India. The birds migrate here every year from November to February, from all over the world.

Covelong (20kms)
A lovely beach resort

Crocodile Bank (14kms)
About 5000 Crocodiles representing 6 species and other reptiles are reared here.

Muttukadu
Just North of Kovalam, this is a fine picnic spot. It is also an ideal location for boating and water sports. TTDC runs a boat house here.

Festivals

Pongal harvest Festival is celebrated on a grand scale during the middle of January and February. These are added attractions at Mamallapuram. Other Festivals

How to get there ?

Air
Chennai is the closest airport.

Rail
The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu.

Road
There are bus services to Mamallapuram from Chennai and Chengalpattu.