|
Get
away to Mamallapuram, a historical retreat set amidst natural beauty. Lying 58 km
south of Chennai, this ancient seaport of the Pallava dynasty invites connoisseurs
of art. Its monuments hewn out of solid rock, though ravaged by the sea and wind,
still bear testimony to the magnificent heritage of Dravidian architecture.
Places of Interest
|
|
Shore Temple
The
Shore Temple, one of the oldest in South India, stands on the sea shore with its
paved forecourts. An immense bas-relief, 27 m long and 8 m high, intricately
carved, depicts Arjuna’s Penance.
Rock-cut temples Early
rock-cut temples excavated from the hillside have large carved panels depicting
stories from Indian mythology. |
| The carvings in the mahishasuramardini cave, which
show the goddess Durga killing a demon and Lord Vishnu in his cosmic slumber (ananthasayanam),
are particularly remarkable. Sri Krishna’s avatar comes alive in the Krishna
Mandapam where a sculpted panel depicts pastoral life and the lifting of the
Govardhan hillock. |
Yet
another marvel of sculptural excellence are the
Five Rathas, referred to as the Pancha Pandava Rathas.
The
Government College of Architecture and Sculpture offers intensive training in the
various branches of temple art and architecture. The creations of the budding
craftsmen are on display.
Besides
being an open air museum of ancient Pallava art and architecture, Mamallapuram has
the added lure of a beautiful beach and fine resorts.
It is also a beach resort
offering wide range of Adventurous sports.
Climate:
|
Max. |
Min. |
| Summer |
36.6°c |
21.1 |
| Winter |
30.5°c |
19.8°c |
Best time to visit :
Throughout the year December-January is the celebrating time .
How To Get
There
| By Air |
The nearest airport is Chennai
(64 km) |
| By Rail |
Nearest
Railhead is at Chingleput (29
km)/ Chennai (64 km) . |
| Road |
It is well connected by road |
|
Tamil Nadu
