Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a tourist destination situated in Tamil Nadu which has many beautiful places. It is known for its historical monuments, sculptures, scenic beauty, culture and tradition. Mahabalipuram is placed along the Coromandel Coast facing the Bay of Bengal. It is a magnificent place to watch and an attractive tourist spot as well.

The name “Mahabalipuram” is derived from a myth. The place was ruled by a very arrogant and cruel king named “Mahabali” who was later killed by Lord Vishnu and this place is named after that King Mahabali.

The Gupta dynasty declined and Pallavas rose to power in south India and ruled for quite some time. The period between 650 AD and 750 AD was called as the Golden Age of Pallavas and were very powerful, intelligent, thinkers and creative. During the rule of the Pallavas, great poets, saints, artisans, scholars, artists and dramatists emerged.

Mahabalipuram has unique and beautiful sculptures and paintings which shows the talent and skill of the Pallavas. Their creativity and innovation can be seen in the best possible form as they explored new styles and innovations eliciting the best in art and architecture. Mahabalipuram is not only known for its architecture, but also known for its Casuarinas trees and silver sand beach. It is an attractive tourist destination which keeps the tourists fascinated.

The Pallavas did not expose their creations, as they were not exposed to the outer world and were kept hidden until the late 185th century. Mahabalipuram has temples made out of a single rock, temples of different structures and artistic bas-reliefs which is the largest in the world. The great architecture is a delight to the visitors even today and attracts devotees from far off places.  Mahabalipuram has two low hills whose either sides have excavates temples called Mandapas. It has unique architecture with different sculptures (Nandi, Lion and Elephant), rathas (cut out temples) and a palace.        

Mahabalipuram is considered to be an architectural paradise. This place has some of the best creations of the Pallavas and attracts foreigners as well. Tamil is one of oldest languages amongst Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu and Tulu. There are a huge number of visitors every year for holidays from October to March.

The renowned and ancient 7th century centre for Pallava culture and arts, Mamallapuram Dance Festival is organised by the Department of Tourism. Dance performances range from Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi to Kathakali and Odissi.