Scenic and sun-soaked, Mamallapuram is set on a striking outcrop of rock between a beautiful beach and languid lagoon. With its blend of sun, sea, sand and seafood, it is Tamil Nadu’s premium beach destination.
There is much more to the village than whiling away the hours on the shore. It is listed as a World Heritage Site and is famous as a regional centre for stone carving. Their spectacular stone carvings can be seen all around the town. In addition to the modern mastery, it is famous for its ancient rock carvings, especially the Shore Temple.
In times gone by, Mamallapuram was the seaport of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram and their second capital. Today it hosts Tamil Nadu’s most highly regarded dance festival.
Less than two hours by road from Chennai, with fine fish restaurants, a beach and sprinkling of handicraft shops, Mamalapuram is a lively stop over in the South.
Highlights
Dining on seafood with a view of the sea | Watching a stone carving come to life
Interesting facts
Ancient Indian traders who went to countries of South East Asia sailed from the seaport of Mahabalipuram.