Mahabalipuram Hotels

Mahabalipuram is located in the state of Tamil Nadu by the Bay of Bengal in Southern India. Known for its rich cultural history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for attractive monuments and rock-cut temples. During the eighth century BC under the Pallava Kingdom, it was the main seaport. Since successive rulers of Mahabalipuram wanted to preserve their temples and didn’t like inviting the attention of people from other places, the structures came to light only in the 18th century. Many mandapas (bas reliefs) cut out from the two hills near the town are the cynosures of the tourists. Large figures of the Hindu Gods are carved out of the rock. While the Ganesh Mandapa depicts the elephant God, the Mahisasuramardini Mandapa signifies the Goddess Durga killing the demon. Arjuna’s Penance is an important attraction. Carved out of a large rock, the sculptural marvel depicts a mythological event from the epic ‘Mahabharata’. Arjuna, the famous warrior, stands erect on one leg to appease Lord Shiva, asking for weapons.

There are eight chariots in the form of monolithic temples. Their beauty lies in the fact that, although it is cut from the rock, they appear to be made of wood.

When To Go

The climate of Mahabalipuram is mostly tropical. The summer season begins in the month of April and continues up to June, which is followed by the monsoon rains. The winter sets in November. Winter is the ideal time to visit the place as the average temperature hovers around 20C (68F). Its close proximity to the sea makes it humid, so light clothes are preferable.

• Summer (April to June): Maximum temperature 36.6°C (98°F); minimum temperature 21.1°C (70°F)

• Winter (November to February): Maximum temperature 30.5°C (87°F); minimum temperature 19.8°C (68°F)

Getting There

Mahabalipuram is only 60 kilometres (37.3 miles) from Chennai, which is a major city in South India and can easily be accessed by air, road and railway routes.

• By air: The nearest airport is in Chennai, which is well connected by air from many cities all over India. Flights are regularly available from all major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata to Chennai.

• International flight

• By train: Tourists can also approach the place through road after getting down at the Chengalpattu (29 kilometres (18 miles) away) or the Chennai railways station. Chennai is well connected with train routes to all major cities in India. Taxis are readily available.

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