Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a historic town in Tamil Nadu, India, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site monuments and temples. Located 60 KM from Chennai, Mahabalipuram is a breezy drive away on the East Coast Road.

Nearby Places to Visit:

1. Shore Temple: The Shore Temple is an ancient stone temple in South India dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal and offering stunning views during sunrise and sunset.
2. Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas): The rock-cut temples dedicated to the Pandava brothers and Draupadi are shaped like chariots and represent different styles of Dravidian architecture.
3. Arjuna's Penance (Descent of the Ganges): Arjuna's Penance (Descent of the Ganges) is a massive open-air bas-relief sculpture depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. It includes Arjuna's penance and the descent of the Ganges River.
4. Varaha Cave Temple: It is carved out of a single rock and dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha incarnation.
5. Krishna's Butter Ball: Krishna's Butter Ball is a natural rock formation that looks like a ball of butter. It remains balanced on a slope despite attempts to move it.
6. Mahabalipuram Beach: Mahabalipuram Beach offers beautiful views, water sports, and watching local fishermen at work.
7. Thirukadalmallai (Sthalasayana Perumal Temple): Thirukadalmallai (Sthalasayana Perumal Temple) is an ancient Vishnu temple known for its beautiful sculptures and sacred status.
8. Tiger Cave: Tiger Cave is a rock-cut temple near Mahabalipuram featuring the different sculptures including the carving of the tiger's head.