Mahabalipuram Travel Information: Sightseeing, Dining, and Activities in the Coastal Ancient Town
In the heart of Tamil Nadu, India, lies the historical town of Mahabalipuram, a tourist gem nestled just 60 km south of Chennai. Once a flourishing port city ruled by the Pallava dynasty in the 7th and 8th centuries, Mahabalipuram is now best known for its UNESCO World Heritage monuments, fresh seafood, and rich cultural heritage.
Mahabalipuram's most iconic landmark is the Shore Temple, a rock-cut temple that stands proudly on the beaches of the Bay of Bengal. Built at the start of the 8th century, the temple is a testament to the ancient architectural prowess of the Pallava dynasty. Tragically, the Shore Temple was one of seven shore temples, but the fate of the remaining six is unknown.
In April 2002, explorations by a team from the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) and members of the Scientific Exploration Society from the United Kingdom uncovered evidence of submerged structures off Mahabalipuram. These findings were further substantiated after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, when divers reported discovering statuary such as an elaborately carved lion, a half-completed elephant, and a stallion in flight, among other items. These finds suggest that the submerged structures are indeed ancient, but their exact nature and historical significance require further verification.
Local boatmen believe these submerged structures to be the remains of six submerged Shore Temples of Mamallapuram, although experts from the NIO have not confirmed this beyond doubt. The Varaha Cave Temple, located on the outskirts of Mahabalipuram, dates back to the 7th century, adding to the intrigue surrounding the submerged structures.
Mahabalipuram offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. The Pancha Rathas complex, a group of five chariot-shaped temples named after the five Pandava brothers and Draupadi, is a must-visit. The Descent of the Ganges (Arjuna's Penance) and Cave Temples are also worth exploring.
For those seeking culinary delights, Mahabalipuram offers a variety of local dishes such as Chettinad Chicken Curry, Fish Fry and Seafood Platter, and Mysore Masala Dosa. The Searock Restaurant and Moonrakers Restaurant are popular choices for seafood lovers.
A suggested 3-day itinerary includes visiting the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Descent of the Ganges (Arjuna's Penance), Cave Temples, Krishna Mandapam, India Seashell Museum, and the Varaha Cave Temple. A day trip to Kancheepuram, home to the Kailasanathar and Ekambareswarar temples, is also recommended. To unwind, visitors can relax at the MGM Beach Resort or take a dip at Mahabalipuram Beach.
For travellers, it is suggested to rent a scooter or hire a local cab, pack light, breathable clothes, carry cash, stay hydrated, and be respectful of religious sites and local customs. The Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay offers a boat ride for a unique perspective of Mahabalipuram's coastal beauty.
This article was originally published in February 2024 and has since been updated to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. As explorations continue, the mysteries of Mahabalipuram's submerged structures remain captivating, promising a fascinating journey for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
In addition to the historical monuments, Mahabalipuram's submerged structures have piqued the interest of researchers and tourists alike, offering an intriguing exploration into the town's ancient history. Furthermore, the diversity of food-and-drink options, including local dishes such as Chettinad Chicken Curry and Mysore Masala Dosa, complements the home-and-garden appeal of staying at accommodations like the MGM Beach Resort or visiting the India Seashell Museum. For travelers seeking a unique perspective of Mahabalipuram's coastal beauty, the Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay offers a boat ride.
