Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a small town situated in the Kancheepuram district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is renowned for its ancient temples, rock-cut sculptures, and sandy beaches. Mahabalipuram is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. In this blog, we will explore the 10 things to do and see in Mahabalipuram, the 10 shopping centers, the travel options, the 10 accommodations, the 10 government offices, and reference links.
Explore the Shore Temple: It is one of the most famous temples in Mahabalipuram, built in the 8th century. It is located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal and is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
Visit the Pancha Rathas: The Pancha Rathas or Five Chariots are monolithic structures that are carved from a single piece of stone. They are named after the five Pandava brothers of the Mahabharata.
See the Arjuna's Penance: This is one of the largest open-air rock sculptures in the world. It depicts the penance of Arjuna, a character from the Mahabharata.
Visit the Mahishamardini Cave: It is a rock-cut temple dedicated to goddess Mahishamardini, an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga.
Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach: It is a beautiful beach located near the Shore Temple. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy various water sports activities.
See the Krishna Mandapam: It is a rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is known for its intricate carvings depicting Lord Krishna's life.
Visit the Varaha Cave Temple: It is a rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu's third avatar, Varaha. The temple is known for its unique architecture and carvings.
Explore the Descent of the Ganges: It is a massive rock carving that depicts the descent of the river Ganges from heaven to earth.
Visit the Olakkanesvara Temple: It is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its beautiful sculptures and carvings.
See the Tiger Cave: It is a small cave temple located on the outskirts of Mahabalipuram. It is known for its unique carvings of tigers and other animals.
Shopping Centers
Mahabalipuram Handicrafts: It is a government-run store that sells various handicrafts, including stone carvings, sculptures, and jewelry.
Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation: It is a state-run store that sells various handicrafts, including traditional textiles, wood carvings, and brassware.
Krishna's Butterball: It is a small shop that sells various souvenirs, including T-shirts, keychains, and fridge magnets.
Muthu Silk Plaza: It is a shop that specializes in silk sarees, fabrics, and clothing.
Mahabalipuram Silk Sarees: It is a shop that sells various types of silk sarees, including Kanchipuram silk sarees.
The Pearl House: It is a shop that specializes in pearl jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Mahabalipuram Stone Sculpture Gallery: It is a shop that sells various stone carvings, sculptures, and idols.
Shree Ganesh Handicrafts: It is a shop that sells various handicrafts, including wood carvings, paintings, and brassware.
Mahabalipuram Artisan Village: It is a government initiative that promotes local artisans and their products. Visitors can purchase various handicrafts, including stone carvings, paintings, and textiles.
Green Shopping: It is a shop that specializes in eco-friendly products, including bags, accessories, and household items.
Travel Options
Mahabalipuram is well connected by road, rail, and air. Here are some travel options:
By Road: Mahabalipuram is well connected by road to Chennai, which is about 60 km away. Visitors can hire taxis or take buses from Chennai to Mahabalipuram.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Mahabalipuram is Chengalpattu, which is about 29 km away. Visitors can take taxis or buses from the station to Mahabalipuram.
By Air: The nearest airport to Mahabalipuram is Chennai International Airport, which is about 58 km away. Visitors can take taxis or buses from the airport to Mahabalipuram.
Accommodations
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay: It is a luxury resort located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. It offers various amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants.
Ideal Beach Resort: It is a beachside resort that offers various amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants.
Chariot Beach Resort: It is a luxury beachside resort that offers various amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants.
Mamalla Beach Resort: It is a beachside resort that offers various amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants.
Grande Bay Resort and Spa: It is a luxury resort that offers various amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants.
Indeco Mahabalipuram: It is a heritage resort located in the heart of Mahabalipuram. It offers various amenities, including a swimming pool and a restaurant.
Hotel Sea Breeze: It is a budget hotel located near the beach. It offers various amenities, including a restaurant and room service.
Mamalla Heritage: It is a budget hotel located near the beach. It offers various amenities, including a restaurant and room service.
Mamalla Inn: It is a budget hotel located near the beach. It offers various amenities, including a restaurant and room service.
Hotel Pallava Dynasty: It is a budget hotel located in the heart of Mahabalipuram. It offers various amenities, including a restaurant and room service.
Government Offices
Mahabalipuram Municipality: It is responsible for the town's administration, including waste management and town planning.
Mahabalipuram Police Station: It is responsible for maintaining law and order in the town.
Mahabalipuram Revenue Office: It is responsible for revenue collection and land registration.
Mahabalipuram Transport Office: It is responsible for vehicle registration and issuing driving licenses.
Mahabalipuram Post Office: It is responsible for postal services, including mail delivery and money transfer.
Mahabalipuram Electricity Board: It is responsible for the town's electricity supply.
Mahabalipuram Water Supply and Sewerage Board: It is responsible for the town's water supply and sewerage system.
Mahabalipuram Fire Station: It is responsible for fire safety and emergency services.
Mahabalipuram Health Department: It is responsible for public health, including disease control and vaccination programs
Mahabalipuram Tourism Office: It is responsible for promoting tourism in the town and providing information to visitors.
Reference Links:
Official website of Tamil Nadu Tourism: https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/
Mahabalipuram Tourism: https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/places-to-visit-in-tamil-nadu/mahabalipuram.html
UNESCO World Heritage Site: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/249/
Mahabalipuram Beach: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g424922-d1558110-Reviews-Mahabalipuram_Beach-Mahabalipuram_Kanchipuram_District_Tamil_Nadu.html
Five Rathas: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Five-Rathas
Mahabalipuram Temples: https://www.culturalindia.net/monuments/mahabalipuram.html
Mamallapuram Dance Festival: https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/mamallapuram-dance-festival/
Shore Temple: https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/places-to-visit-in-tamil-nadu/shore-temple.html
Arjuna's Penance: https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/places-to-visit-in-tamil-nadu/arjuna-penance.html
Krishna's Butterball: https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/places-to-visit-in-tamil-nadu/krishnas-butterball.html
Conclusion
Mahabalipuram is a fascinating town that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India. It is home to some of the most spectacular rock-cut temples and sculptures in the world, which have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including sightseeing, shopping, and cultural events. The town has many options for accommodation and transportation, making it an accessible and convenient destination. Whether you're a history buff or a beach lover, Mahabalipuram has something to offer everyone.
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