Mahabalipuram,
also known, as "Mamallapuram" is located 58-km, south of Chennai,
nestling on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, offers many breath-taking
monuments with Sculptural Panels, Caves, Monolithic Rathas (chariots) and
Temples.
The spectacular beach of Mahabalipuram attracts thousands of tourists all
through the year. While at the beach you may sun bathe, relax and unwind
yourself. At the same time you may explore the magnificent monuments besides
the beautiful beaches. The dreamy rock cut art is an amazingly extravaganza.
For the more ecclesiastical tourists there are the temples besides the
shores, rathas, Arjuna's penance that are exclusive to the region. A
crocodile bank, snake venom extracting centre, schools of art and sculpture
and a wide spectrum of resorts along the beach entice holiday-seekers all
round the year.
Mahabalipuram may be easily reached. Mahabalipuram is well linked through
air, rail and road networks. The nearest airport of Chennai connects
Mahabalipuram with the other main cities of India and the world through
frequent air flights and trains. In terms of the road transport buses knit
the terrestrial network Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai
et al ply to Mahabalipuram.
Climate
The climate of Mahabalipuram remains hot and sultry all through the year
with a maximum temperature of 35°C and a minimum of 19°C. The most
enjoyable time to visit this place is during October to March. One is
advised to avoid visiting this place in the monsoon season.
Festivals
Celebration of the Southern legacy begins from January to February there is
a month-long Mamallapuram Dance Festival. Dances from all over India are
staged here including Bharatha Natyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathakali (Kerala),
Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh) as well as tribal dances, puppet shows and
classical / traditional music.
Connectivity
» Aerial communication : Chennai (58-km) has the
nearest airport with both domestic and international terminus. Chennai is
connected with all the important places in India through the numerous
domestic flights. International flights operate from various parts of the
world to Chennai.
» Rail links : The nearest railway stations are Chengalpattu
(29-km) and Chennai (58-km). From these stations one has to take the
terrestrial route to reach Mahabalipuram.
» Road links : There are buses available from Pondicherry,
Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai to Mahabalipuram regularly. The road
to Mahabalipuram is well connected to other major roads. Tourists can also
hire a taxi from Chennai to reach Mahabalipuram.
Accommodation options
Various types of accommodation options, from economy to luxury, are
available in Mahabalipuram. The best option is to check into one of the
several beach resorts Mahabalipuram encompassing the town. However, it is
necessary to have prior reservation in most of the cases. Mahabalipuram
Resorts provide excellent accommodation options for the tourists.
Mahabalipuram
Beach
