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Ancient temples that reflect the glory of erstwhile kingdoms, pristine beaches that emanate matchless natural beauty, rich cultural heritage that welcomes you with warmth – Mahabalipuram is in many ways the splendidly vibrant destination you will love to visit many times.

There are certain destinations that will leave a lasting impression on you, even years after your visit; and they keep calling you back, no matter how far away you are. Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is one such city that you won’t feel like leaving once you are here. Drenched in an enigmatic old-age charm, the city will amaze you with its rich history, thriving present and prospects of a glorious future. 

Noted in history as a busy port town, Mahabalipuram rose in stature and importance during the period between 4th and 9th century when the Pallava dynasty ruled the land. The heydays of the Pallavas saw the building many impressive architectural wonders, many of which continue to fascinate visitors to this day. The temples built during this era loudly proclaim the glory of the Dravidian architectural genre. The highlight of this style can be seen in the ornate stone carvings made from uncut rocks. The splendour of sculptures that adorn these temples are simply stunning. The classic example of this is the Shore temple, one of the oldest temples in India built out of blocks of granite. These majestic structures and their relics that can be seen today, have made Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Though a destination for pilgrims and history buffs, Mahabalipuram doesn’t disappoint a leisure traveller. Take a look at the fascinating beaches in the area and you will know why. The strategic location of Mahabalipuram and its proximity to various major South Indian cities has cemented its importance as a weekend getaway.

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Top Attractions

Mamallapuram Shore Temple

The splendour of South Indian architecture radiates brightly in this shore. The majesty and glory of the Mamallapuram Shore Temple is one for all ages. Close your eyes. Meditate. Relieve yourself from the pressures of the world.

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Arjuna's Penance

Welcome to the land of ancient wonders, where time stands still and beauty transcends the boundaries of our imagination. Come and bask in the glory of India's rich cultural heritage at Mamallapuram, a breathtakingly beautiful monument located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal.

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Krishna's Butterball

And at the very heart of Mamallapuram lies a marvel, a wonder, a testament to the grandeur of the past - the incomparable, the indomitable, the ethereal, Krishna's Butterball.

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Mamallapuram Seashell Museum

Visit the museum and behold the breathtaking collection of rare and unique shells - a veritable cornucopia of shapes, sizes, and colours - each more magnificent than the last. From the spiralled elegance of the conch shells to the delicate intricacy of cowrie shells, the museum's collection is an awe-inspiring visual feast.

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Sculpture Museum, Mamallapuram

Tucked away amidst the rolling waves of the Bay of Bengal lies a jewel of unparalleled splendour: the Sculpture Museum of Mamallapuram, a repository of South India's abundant cultural heritage. A symphony of art, architecture, and mythology, this museum is a celebration of the ingenuity, creativity, and timeless beauty of the ancient Pallava dynasty.

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Mahabalipuram Beach

It’s a shore that witnessed several historic moments that defined the course of South India. The coastline evolved with time and is today one of the most visited tourism destinations in Tamil Nadu. The Mahabalipuram is a spot worth every hype.

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