The Timeless Beauty of Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
Discover the architectural marvel of Mahabalipuram Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that epitomizes India's rich cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
- J58V+JWW, Beach Rd, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, 603104, IN
- +91180042531111
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
The Mahabalipuram Shore Temple, an iconic landmark of Tamil Nadu, stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient India. Constructed during the Pallava dynasty, this magnificent temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcases the intricate stone carvings that have withstood the test of time. Visitors are often awestruck by the temple's unique design, featuring three sanctums, with the main one housing a stunning idol of Lord Shiva. The temple's location, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Bay of Bengal, offers breathtaking views, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the sunlight casts a golden hue over the stones. As you explore the temple grounds, take a moment to admire the detailed sculptures that depict various deities and mythological scenes, reflecting the artistic prowess of the Pallava artisans. The temple's walls are adorned with intricate reliefs, and the entire site is surrounded by lush greenery, adding to its serene atmosphere. The Shore Temple not only serves as a spiritual haven but also as an archaeological treasure, providing insights into the region's rich history. Visitors should plan their trip to the Shore Temple during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the cooler temperatures. The temple is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, allowing ample time for exploration. While the site is relatively accessible, wearing comfortable shoes is advisable due to the uneven terrain. Don't forget to capture the stunning scenery and the intricate details of the temple's architecture, as these memories will surely last a lifetime.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the temple grounds have uneven surfaces.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic views of the Bay of Bengal.
- Respect the local customs and traditions, especially as this is a place of worship.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your understanding of the temple's history and significance.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, use the National Highway 32 (NH32) from Chennai. Follow NH32 southbound for approximately 55 km until you reach Mahabalipuram. Once you enter Mahabalipuram, follow the signs for the Shore Temple, which is located on Beach Road. The temple is situated near the coast, and you will see it as you approach the beach area. Parking is available nearby, but be prepared to pay a small fee for parking.
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Public Bus
To reach Mahabalipuram by public bus, you can take a bus from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. Buses depart from various locations in Chennai, such as the Koyambedu Bus Terminal. Look for buses headed towards Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram. The journey takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Mahabalipuram bus stand, you can walk to the Shore Temple, which is approximately 1 km away. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions.
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Taxi or Ride-share
For a more comfortable option, consider booking a taxi or using a ride-share service like Uber or Ola. Simply enter 'Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram' as your destination in the app. The fare from Chennai to Mahabalipuram typically ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 INR, depending on the type of vehicle and traffic conditions. The driver will take you directly to the temple, and you can arrange for them to wait for you or return later.
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Auto-rickshaw
If you prefer a local experience, you can hire an auto-rickshaw from the Mahabalipuram bus stand. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey; it should cost around 100 to 150 INR to get to the Shore Temple. The ride will take approximately 10 minutes. Make sure to confirm the price upfront to avoid any misunderstandings.
Attractions Nearby to Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
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Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram
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மகாபலிபுரம் கடற்கரை கோவில் காட்சி, Mahabalipuram beach seashore temple view,
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Mahishasura Rock
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ATV Bike Ride
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Shore Temple Beach
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Tiger Rock
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Shore Temple ticket counter
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Beach Mahabalipuram
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Mahapalipurm Resort Beach
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Mahabalipuram Beach
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Vishnu Tourist Guide - Mamallapuram
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Sculpture Museum
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Gnans beach
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Arulmigu Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple
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Crocodile park
Landmarks nearby to Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
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Symmetric Building
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Draupadi's bath
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TRIFED - Tribes India Mahabalipuram
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Valayankuttai Ratha
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Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas)
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India Seashell Museum
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Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum
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Matsya Narayana Temple Beach
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Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple
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Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple
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Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple
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Indira Nagar wall paints
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Shri Periya Palayathamman Temple, Sri Anjaneyar Temple
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Karl Schmidt Memorial
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Varam Tharum Vinayagar Aalayam