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Shore Temple
MahabalipuramUNESCO World Heritage Site
Overview
Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, the Shore Temple dates back to the 8th century. The temple complex was built out of granite during the Pallava dynasty.
Suggested Duration - 2 hours
What To Expect?
The Shore Temple is known for its Dravidian-style architecture, featuring three shrines, an enclosed inner sanctum, a gateway tower, and an outer wall adorned with Nandi figures and intricate stone carvings of deities like Shiva and Vishnu.
Tips
- Wear comfortable footwear, as you�ll need to walk around the temple grounds and the stone pathways.
- If possible, visit during the annual Mamallapuram Dance Festival (December-January) for a unique cultural experience.
- The temple is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The Mahabalipuram Shore Temple Overview
The Mahabalipuram Shore Temple is located in the historic city of Mahabalipuram, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Known for its architectural grandeur, Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a collection of monuments that date back to the 7th and 8th centuries.
The Mahabalipuram Shore Temple, built in the 8th century under the reign of Narasimhavarman II, is one of the oldest stone temples in South India. It's famous for its intricate carvings and architectural excellence. The temple complex consists of three shrines, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The temple gets its name from its location on the Coromandel Coast, overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Known for:Its unique architectural style, reflecting the maturity of the Pallava art and its influence on Dravidian architecture.
| Timings | The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. |
|---|---|
| Entry Fee | ?40 for Indians and ?600 for foreign nationals. |
| Tips | It's advisable to carry a hat and sunscreen due to the open location of the temple. Photography is allowed, but respect the sanctity of the temple. |
| Required Time | Approximately 1-2 hours are needed to explore the temple thoroughly. |
| Restricted Items | Shoes are not allowed inside the temple premises. |
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the MahabalipuramShore Temple is from November to February when the weather is pleasant.
More About the Shore Temple
The Mahabalipuram Shore Temple is not just an architectural marvel, but also a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of India. It's believed that the temple was originally part of a larger complex of seven temples, most of which are now submerged under the sea. The annual Mahabalipuram Dance Festival, held in January/February, is a great time to visit.
Mahabalipuram Shore Temple Services
The temple offers regular prayer services. It's also a popular location for traditional Indian weddings.
Mahabalipuram Shore Temple Aarti
The evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at the Shore Temple is a spiritual experience, with the setting sun providing a magical backdrop.
Nearby Tourist Spots
- Pancha Rathas:A group of monolithic rock temples.
- Arjuna's Penance:A giant rock relief depicting scenes from Indian mythology.
- Mahabalipuram Beach:A serene beach perfect for relaxation.
Restaurants and Local Food
Mahabalipuram offers a variety of dining options, from traditional South Indian cuisine to international fare. Popular local dishes include dosa, idli, and seafood. Some recommended restaurants are:
- Sea Shore Garden Restaurant:Known for its seafood and authentic South Indian flavors.
- Moonrakers Restaurant:A favorite spot for both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of dishes.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Shore Temple
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Travelling is exhilarating - and a little bit intimidating too. You are venturing into the unknown and you really have very little ideas about what things will be like there when you arrive. It's always a massive learning curve when you leap into the new (which is why it's important to thoroughly research a travel destination before you go.) Some of the important things to keep in mind while deciding on a destination to travel are :Figure out how to travel to a destination, where to stay and what are the things to do amongst other things. Trip Ideas by MakeMyTrip brings you a plethora of knowledge about a destination ranging from images and videos to lists of all the activities Read posts by travel bloggers who have been there and if needed email them Watch documentaries and reach out to people who have been there
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