Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for many years. Historically, it was the second capital of the majestic Pallava kings of Kanchipuram. A huge heritage centre in Tamil Nadu, tourists always visit it when coming from Chennai. To see all the Tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram, you would need two whole days here—there’s so much to see and enjoy.

What to See In Mahabalipuram

Known for its many temples, historical monuments, culture, sculptures and tradition, you can get the most out of your holiday if you take one of the popular Mahabalipuram Tour Packages. With the help of a guide, you can see all the top tourist spots like the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, PanchRathas, the mandapas or caves, Crocodile Farm, Cave Temples and India Sea shell Museum and Krishna's Butter Ball. If you are here between December and January, you can also participate in the famous Mamallapuram Dance Festival.

Famous Tourist Spots Not to be Missed

There are many spots to see and be wowed in Mahabalipuram. But if your time here is short, do see at least these three monuments:

Shore Temple: Built in the 8^thcentury, this two-temple complex faces the sea. According to legend, there was initially a cluster of five temples which were so stunning that they invited the wrath of the Gods. A few sank in the sea, and now only two remain.

Arjuna’s Penance: At a height of 43 meters, this monument is stunning in its uniqueness. It is a carving done out of two adjoining boulders which depict the story of the way Arjuna did penance to get Shiva’s weapon. It needs to be seen to be appreciated.

Mahabalipuram Lighthouse: Near the Mahabalipuram shore is situated an impressive lighthouse. You can visit it during the day by climbing a spiral staircase and reaching the top. When you reach the top, you will get a panoramic view of the huge seashore, apart from the many rock structures and Mahabalipuram town below.

You should also visit Chennai, Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, and Vellore, taking three to four-day trips so that you visit Mahabalipuram to these places.

How to Get There

Mahabalipuram is situated about 56 km from Chennai. In fact, the Chennai airport is the closest to it. Once you land here, you can take a cab or bus and reach here within two hours. About 30 km from here is the nearest railway station at Chengalapattu. From here too, you can reach Mahabalipuram by cab or bus.

If you are enthused by these sites and would like to visit Mahabalipuram, this is the best season for it. But you cannot get the most out of your holiday on an unplanned trip. To enjoy it to the fullest, have your trip planned by a seasoned travel agent, someone like Optima Travels. By getting in touch with them and letting them know of your interest in Mahabalipuram Tourism, they can draw up a wonderful itinerary for you, specific to your interests and the time you can spend here. Of course, you should also tell them the size of your group and any other details he should be aware of.

Once you tie up with them, you stand to get a significant discount, which others may not give. So, get in touch with Optima Travels and enjoy an unforgettable holiday in Mahabalipuram.