Mahabalipuram Tourism

Mahabalipuram is a magnificent living example of the Pallava art which has extraordinary historical monuments that have preserved the artwork of that era. Famous for its historical monuments, the tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram belong to the Pallava dynasty. Mahabalipuram was once a beautiful port which was a flourishing region during the Pallava rule. Apart from the tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram, you can also see how the artisans of the Pallava dynasty with their remarkable skill had breathed life into this mammoth Rathas, sculpture panels and temples.

The Varaha Cave, a small rock-cut mandapam (hall), is a faceted and finished gem with four panels of the famous Pallava doorkeepers who wear an expression of "pious rapture," as Heinrich Zimmer, a leading expert on Mahabalipuram put it. There is about them a mood of contemplative reverie, a lyrical softness and subtle grace totally at variance with the primordial machismo their role as guards of the gods imposes on them. Accommodation in Resorts Mahabalipuram close to the tourist spots can be arranged.
Feeble sunlight glimmers on panels of enduring beauty in the Mahishamardini Cave. The Somaskanda sculpture radiates peace, power and wisdom while Lord Vishnu in omniscient repose is a masterpiece of dhwani (the art of suggestion) perfected by the Pallava sculptor.

Rathas: The Pancha Pandava Rathas are one of the major tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram. Among them five of the Rathas are carved out of a single rock. The carvings are so intricate and beautiful that they are still untouched by the vagaries of time. There 8 Rathas in Mahabalipuram of which the 5 are named after Pandavas.

Shore Temple: Located on the shores of Bay of Bengal this consists of a Vishnu Temple and two Shiva Temples. The architectural splendor of the monument on the backdrop of the sea is a wonderful sight. It gets its name for being located on the shores of Bay of Bengal.

Varaha Caves: These are rock cut caves revealed by archaeological excavations. Here one can find idols representing incarnations of Vishnu - Varaha. One can also get to see the Mahishasuramardhini Caves has got fine bas releifs, there is also the Somaskanda sculptures.

Arjuna's Penance: The Arjuna's Penance is one of the major tourist attractions of Mahabalipuram. The Arjuna's Penance in Mahabalipuram is one of the biggest open air rock sculptures of the seventh century. Its intricate carvings, life like figures are completely unique and remarkable.