Mahabalipuram: Built Upon Rich History
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, and the Seven Pagodas, is one of the most visited towns in India. Known for its historical monuments, Mahabalipuram, India houses a group of Hindu monuments that have been declared as a UNESCO world heritage site. The town was named after King Narasimhavaman I, also known as Mahamalla. Facing the Bay of Bengal, Mahabalipuram is also known for its beaches. If you want to be intoxicated with the wonder of Mahabalipuram, you can book a flight to the MAA-Chennai International Airport, and then take a one-hour drive to the town proper.
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit the town would be from October to March, which during the winter season in India, which means warm days and cool nights. It is also during the months of December and January that the Mahablipuram Dance Festival is held for four weeks. Dancers from different parts of India participate in this festival. If you plan to see this dance celebration, better book your flight and Mahabalipuram, India hotels as early as possible.
What to Do & Area Attractions
History buffs who love marveling at monuments would love spending their time in Mahabalipuram. Boasting of 40 ancient monuments and temples, some of them built as early as 630 CE, tourists would feel immersed in the past by looking at the structures. One of the hotels close to these structures is the Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram. The 5-star hotel is a must for those who want to sight-see the historic monuments. Just a 9-minute walk away from the hotel is the Descent of the Ganges, a rock-relief that is carved on two monolithic rock boulders, and depicts the legend of the sacred Ganges River from the heavens. You can then visit the Pancha Pandava Rathas, which is 5 monuments that resemble chariots. Each monument is carved on a monolith, and the monuments are commonly mistaken for temples. Beach lovers can also have a wonderful time with Mamallapuram Beach, which also features monuments that are tied to the history of the town. Just a 10-minute walk away from the beach is the Hotel Mamalla Inn, where tourists can stay whilst being close to the beachfront.