Shore Temple

4.6

Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104, India.

Visiting time: 2 hours.

Shore Temple, which was built in the 7th century and displays the Pallava dynasty’s regal taste, is one of the earliest South Indian temples built in Dravidian architecture. UNESCO has designated the temple’s construction as a World Heritage Site. It is situated on the Bay of Bengal’s coastlines at Mahabalipuram and is one of India’s most photographed monuments.

Attraction

This work of sculptural brilliance stands as an emblem of Mahabalipuram, overlooking the Bay of Bengal’s shore. Temple ruins, monoliths, rathas (chariots), and other works of art chiseled perfectly out of rocks – each portion deserves to be appreciated. It’s one-of-a-kind and stunning, with a captivating allure. It is Mahabalipuram’s, Shore Temple. One of Mahabalipuram’s biggest attractions is the Shore Temple, which is located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. Its stunning structure is an architectural masterpiece that exemplifies art’s antique refinement. The Shore Temple, constructed between 700 and 728 AD, has withstood the test of time.

History

Famous Tamil Nadu landmark, UNESCO world heritage - Shore temple, world heritage site in Mahabalipuram.

According to mythology, the Shore Temple was one of Mahabalipuram’s Seven Pagodas. Hindu mythology tells about seven pagodas. Prince Hiranyakasipu, according to legend, did not believe in Lord Vishnu. His son Prahlada, on the other hand, was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, prompting Prince Hiranyakasipu to exile him from the realm. After a time, Prahlada was welcomed, and he went on to become the king. His grandson, Bali, was also the founder of Mahabalipuram.

After seeing such a tall edifice standing alongside the coast, the Shore Temple was given the moniker ‘Seven Pagodas.’ The navigational ships used this temple as a marker. The edifice also had a Pagoda-like appearance, which added to the familiarity.

Inside/Outside Views

Three tourists walking to the Shore temple in Mahabalipuram, India.

Shore Temple is also credited as being the Pallavas’ first stone edifice. Monuments used to be carved out of rocks or stones before this. Shore Temple, unlike other monuments in the area, is a five-story rock-cut structure temple that is more willingly monolithic. This is one of the earliest and most notable structural temples in southern India in Tamil nadu. Carvings and sculptures adorn the spire to a large extent. A stone wall has been built in recent years to protect the shrine from further sea erosion. The pyramidal construction rises to a height of 60 feet from a 50-foot square pedestal. Shore Temple, a prominent example of Dravidian temple construction, creates an uncommon blend of history and natural beauty. The temple was built to catch the first rays of the morning sun and to shine after sunset on the lake. Shore Temple was “a landmark by day and a beacon by night,” as Percy Brown put it.

Opening Hours

The opening hour is 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Entry & Others Fees

Rs. 10 for Indian citizens, 5 US dollars for foreign nationals, and Free for kids below 15 years.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: The closest airport to this temple is Chennai International Airport which is at a distance of 59.2km.

By Rail: The closest railway station to this temple is Ottivakkam Railway Station which is about 35 km away.

By Road: All modes of transportation link to the major city. Mahabalipuram is accessible by bus from Kanchipuram, Pondicherry, and other surrounding tourist destinations. When you arrive at Mahabalipuram, you may simply stroll or cycle about the little town. Regular buses and taxis can easily transport you to the temple from any place in Tamil Nadu.

Tips for Travellers

The monuments in the area are all free to see.
Still, photography is permitted at no additional cost. The cost of videography is Rs. 25.
Entry tickets will be available for purchase until 5:30 p.m.
The Shore temple’s beautiful beauty is enhanced by sunrise and sunset. As a result, the optimum times to visit the shrine are at dawn and night.
Explore the mysterious allure of this architectural marvel. Don’t forget to bring your camera; you’ll never get tired of photographing and recording everything!