Mahabalipuram Beach

The shores of the Bay of Bengal in Tamil Nadu has the most piquant beaches to boast about. The beach lacing Mahabalipuram, locally called Mallalapuram, is a case in point. The 7th century port city, 60 km from the capital Chennai, appears amongst the coveted UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of the antique stone carvings. Coming to the best in Mallalapuram, the beaches, there is fun and adventure in store for water-sports lovers who love rough waters and strong current. The rest can stretch their legs under the benign sun while the infatuation (with the sea and the shore) matures.

Sauntering Around The Beach
History - Mamallapuram, named after the Pallava king Mamalla, is speckled with historical monuments belonging to and reminiscing of the grand rule of the Pallava kings. There is one of the oldest shore temples in South India built by the Pallava King Rajasimha in the early 8th century and the world's largest bas-relief 96ft long and 43 ft high, the 'Penance of Arjuna', the five monolithic temple carved as rathas called Pancha Pandava Rathas and the open-air theatre Tiger's cave along the beach. The monuments are mostly carved on rock constituting the early stages of Dravidian architecture wherein Buddhist elements of design are prominently visible.

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The South India Kaleidoscope - If you are traveling from Chennai, on your way you can stop by Dakshinachitra, a heritage junction with exhibitions and workshops of the arts and crafts including traditional home architecture and performing artists of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.

Crocs Day Out - Don't miss out the Crocodile Farm near the beach that boasts of about 5,000 crocodiles of 6 different species, alligators and other reptiles, all bred in open marshy enclosures. The sight can give you mighty goose-pimples! Neighbouring it is the snake venom extracting centre and a school of art and sculpture.

Traditional Boogie-Woogie - In case your trip is scheduled the crack of the year, the Tamil Nadu Govt. Dance festival is a must go. A confluence of Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Kathakali and folk dances are hosted on one stage against the backdrop of the Pallava rock sculptures.

Reaching Mahabalipuram
Chennai at 60 km has the nearest airport with both domestic and international terminus. The nearest railheads are Chengalpattu (29 km) and Chennai (58 km). From these stations one has to hit the road to reach Mamallapuram. Buses ply from Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai to Mamallapuram daily. Taxi or cabs from Chennai can also be arranged.

Accommodation Options
Resorts, hotels and lodges abound. We can book seats for you in advance on request. Staying at Chennai can also be a good option.