The
shores of the Bay of Bengal in Tamil Nadu has the most piquant beaches to
boast about. The beach lacing Mahabalipuram, locally called Mallalapuram, is
a case in point. The 7th century port city, 60 km from the capital Chennai,
appears amongst the coveted UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of the
antique stone carvings. Coming to the best in Mallalapuram, the beaches,
there is fun and adventure in store for water-sports lovers who love rough
waters and strong current. The rest can stretch their legs under the benign
sun while the infatuation (with the sea and the shore) matures.
Sauntering Around The Beach
History - Mamallapuram, named after the Pallava king
Mamalla, is speckled with historical monuments belonging to and reminiscing
of the grand rule of the Pallava kings. There is one of the oldest shore
temples in South India built by the Pallava King Rajasimha in the early 8th
century and the world's largest bas-relief 96ft long and 43 ft high, the
'Penance of Arjuna', the five monolithic temple carved as rathas called
Pancha Pandava Rathas and the open-air theatre Tiger's cave along the beach.
The monuments are mostly carved on rock constituting the early stages of
Dravidian architecture wherein Buddhist elements of design are prominently
visible.
The South India Kaleidoscope - If you are
traveling from Chennai, on your way you can stop by Dakshinachitra, a
heritage junction with exhibitions and workshops of the arts and crafts
including traditional home architecture and performing artists of Tamil
Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.
Crocs
Day Out - Don't miss out the Crocodile Farm near the beach that boasts
of about 5,000 crocodiles of 6 different species, alligators and other
reptiles, all bred in open marshy enclosures. The sight can give you mighty
goose-pimples! Neighbouring it is the snake venom extracting centre and a
school of art and sculpture.
Traditional Boogie-Woogie - In case your trip is
scheduled the crack of the year, the Tamil Nadu Govt. Dance festival is a
must go. A confluence of Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Kathakali and
folk dances are hosted on one stage against the backdrop of the Pallava rock
sculptures.
Reaching Mahabalipuram
Chennai at 60 km has the nearest airport with both domestic and
international terminus. The nearest railheads are Chengalpattu (29 km) and
Chennai (58 km). From these stations one has to hit the road to reach
Mamallapuram. Buses ply from Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and
Chennai to Mamallapuram daily. Taxi or cabs from Chennai can also be
arranged.
Accommodation Options
Resorts, hotels and lodges abound. We can book seats for you in advance on
request. Staying at Chennai can also be a good option.
Cultural
Tours in India
