Mahabalipuram was the capital of the powerful Pallava Dynasty in the 7th century AD. This World Heritage site has over 40 monuments and Hindu temples from the 7th-8th century sited on the shore of Bay of Bengal.
A prosperous sea-port during the time of the Periplus (1st century AD) and Ptolemy (AD 140), it drew glowing praise from early travellers like Marco Polo and Ptolemy of its wealth and sophistication. Its architectural glory is represented by rock-cut rathas, sculptured scenes on open rocks and caves. The structural architecture was introduced on a grand scale by Pallava Rajasimha (AD 700-28), culminating in the world famous Shore temple.
The Shore temple is the highlight for modern visitors. It is considered to be among the oldest extant stone buildings in India. It combines shrines to Shiva and Vishnu. Of special note are the five 7th-century monolithic shrines, also known as the five chariots, showing the early stages of temple architecture evolving from wooden structures to stone.
Don’t miss the cave temples including the extraordinarily energetic Mahishasuramardini (Durga slaying the buffalo demon) and the great Arjuna’s penance relief (‘Descent of the Ganges’).
Over the centuries, many structures have been washed away by the sea, and some are greatly eroded, yet there are enough vestiges of the Pallavas’ golden era to captivate.
Sculpture workshops using traditional tools and techniques, and the seaside shacks selling delicious seafood add to the charm of Mahabalipuram.
