If you are in Chennai, Mahabalipuram makes for a perfect day trip, especially a biking one. As an additional bonus, one can visit the Cholamandalam artist village and Dakshinchitra, which are both on the way. The route to take is the scenic East Coast Road or ECR, which essentially follows the coastline.
Once in Mahabalipuram, one can wander around on foot to the various places of interest. Mahabalipuram was one of the settlements of the Pallavas, during their heydays. After 'chai' from the local tea stall, we first went to a rockcut wall called 'Arjun's penance'. This is a large wall which has been converted into a 3-dimensional canvas of sculptures of tales from the Mahabharata. Nearby are various caves with sculptures depicting different stories from history. The sculptures give a great portrayal of the life of the people, their clothes, accessories, jewelleries etc..
The main attraction is the Shore Temple next to the beach. This beautiful double spired temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and its well proportioned vimana is beautifully set against the deep blue sky. Set back from the water, the grounds are a good spot for relaxation..ie.. if you can find some shade from the sun....
Once in Mahabalipuram, one can wander around on foot to the various places of interest. Mahabalipuram was one of the settlements of the Pallavas, during their heydays. After 'chai' from the local tea stall, we first went to a rockcut wall called 'Arjun's penance'. This is a large wall which has been converted into a 3-dimensional canvas of sculptures of tales from the Mahabharata. Nearby are various caves with sculptures depicting different stories from history. The sculptures give a great portrayal of the life of the people, their clothes, accessories, jewelleries etc..
The main attraction is the Shore Temple next to the beach. This beautiful double spired temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and its well proportioned vimana is beautifully set against the deep blue sky. Set back from the water, the grounds are a good spot for relaxation..ie.. if you can find some shade from the sun....
A short distance from the temple are the 5 rathas dedicated to the Pandavas. Conceived off as small shrines in themselves, these granite structures are an interesting composition, with a massive elephant sculpture of elegant beauty alongside.
Light and shade
One can get beautiful all round views of the distant sea from the lighthouse top...but beware of the monkeys there.
One can get beautiful all round views of the distant sea from the lighthouse top...but beware of the monkeys there. There are workshops of stone workers making amazing sculptures on the road just outside the settlement. A visit to one of this will definitely be worthwhile to see the exacting process, skill and precision with which they carry out their works..The sculptures on sale are sometimes so huge that you wonder how it will be transported!!
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