Mahabalipuram Beach

Also known as Mamallapuram by locals, Mahabalipuram Beach is situated at a distance of 58 km from Chennai city in Tamil Nadu. The beach lies on the shore of the Bay of Bengal and comprises some rock-cut sculptures which are pleasing to the eyes. It is also famous for caves, massive rates, chariots, and temples which offer a great spot for a holiday.

The Mahabalipuram beach is a perfect place to relax and give yourself a break from deadlines and work pressure daily. People from near and far flock to the beach especially to enjoy the natural sunbathing offered by the beach. The windsurfers and swimming lovers are bound to have an amazing time at the beach for they are seen doing just that on the shores of the beach.

To attract tourists, the beach also has interesting places to offer including a crocodile bank with about 5000 crocodiles belonging to 6 different species, a school of art & sculpture, and a snake venom extracting center. There are also numerous resorts along the beach offering delicious food joints to fill the empty bellies of visitors. The scintillating beach has golden sand all along the stretch surrounded by rising hills and the sparkling sea.

Mahabalipuram is a town mostly known for its shore temples which were constructed by Rajasimha, the king of Pallavas in old times. Therefore, the strategic location of the beach amidst the rocks and lagoon makes it a perfect combination of history, tourism, and beaches ideal for vacation.

The beach stretches for about 20 km and there are numerous lovely beaches present all along the coastline perfect for a little relaxation. Also, at this captivating beauty of Mahabalipuram, a dance festival is organized by the Department of Tourism of the Government of Tamil Nadu every year where one can get to see extremely talented classical dancers performing against the backdrop of the sea.

Major Highlights of Mahabalipuram Beach

The historical monuments are positioned in very close proximity to Mahabalipuram Beach. The major highlights of the beach are the rock-cut temples that are embodiments of superlative architectural and artistic brilliance. The exquisite sculptures that adorn the interiors of these temples located near Mahabalipuram Beach are very admirable. Each year the Department of Tourism of the Government of Tamil Nadu organizes a dance festival at Mahabalipuram Beach. This offers a golden opportunity to witness performances of esteemed classical dancers against the backdrop of the sea.

A visit to Mahabalipuram Beach offers the rare opportunity to enjoy the blissful nature and human craftsmanship at the same time. Indeed, the enchanting beauty of the beach left tourists to ponder about which deserves more accolades, the azure waters of the sea, the yellow sands, or the magnificent monuments like the Shore Temples and the Rathas.

While lazing around Mahabalipuram Beach, travelers can also drop into the Crocodile farm or the Snake Venom Extracting Center. Here, one can get to see about 5000 crocodiles belonging to 6 different species. The sheer number and variety of crocodiles, alligators, and other reptiles can surely startle anyone.

Things To Do at Mahabalipuram Beach

Mahabalipuram Beach is visited by tons of tourists annually due to the exciting water sports including diving, motor boating, sunbathing, and windsurfing present there. You can take some time away from the fast-moving life of the city. There are several temples in the town with Shore Temple being the most famous one present on the water's edge.

This temple is believed to be the most ancient stone temple in Tamil Nadu. You can also go shopping and buy stone sculptures for which the city is so famous. Most of these carvings were done during the rule of the Pallava kings in the 7th century.

In addition to all this, there is a hill on the western side of the town as well which is worth the visit. It can be visited from sunrise till sunset and has several attractions including a balanced rock known as the butterball of Krishna, some beautifully carved monuments, a lighthouse, and numerous temples.

You can also indulge yourself in a village bicycle tour to the Kadambai Village which is situated nearby to experience rural living. This village is also plastic-free. You can also experience the Mamallapuram dance festival which is held from late December to late January at Arjuna's penance. Since Mahabalipuram is not such huge a town, you can easily walk around or for comfort, hire a bicycle or motorbike.

The natural therapies offered by the town are enough to distance you from stress completely.