Mamallapuram
Mamallapuram
Mamallapuran is 58kms away from Chennai located in the scenic East Coast Road. Built in the 7th century, this ancient Pallava port is the site of several antique sculptural marvels. The only remaining shore temple is a spectacular two-spired shrine which is unique in that it houses shrines for Vishnu and Shiva.
The Pallavas had perfected the art of sculpting rocks to build temples without using brick, mortar or timber and the five monolith Raths (chariots) stand as the surviving masterpieces of Pallava sculpture. Arjuna's penance is the world's largest bas relief measuring 27m by 9m. This sculptural panel shows animals, Gods and Angels contemplating the descent of the Ganges from it's source in the Himalayas and also depicts popular fables from the Panchatantra. Besides these, the Mahishamardhini Cave, the Krishna Mandapam and Varsha Mandapam also have beautiful reliefs depicting Vishnu reclining on the coils of seven headed serpent, Krishna as incarnation of Vishnu lifting mount Goverdhana to protect his kinsman from the wrath of Indra respectively.
How to get there ?
Air
Kamaraj National and Anna International Airports are situated at Meenambakkam about 20 kms from city. Can also be reached by sub-urban train services. Alight at Tirusulum. You must travel light and walk a km to airport.
Rail
Main Railway Stations: Central and Egmore. Central linking north and west and Egmore south.
Road
Chennai is connected by good network of roads with all important places in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India. You may rent a car with popular private cab owners. White plated taxis ply 5 people on contract. Pre-paid taxis and airport coaches are available at airports.