Mahabalipuram was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram. 58 kilometers from Madras on the Bay of Bengal, this tiny sea - side village of Mahabalipuram, is set in a boulder - strewn landscape. Tourists are drawn to this place by its miles of unspoiled beach and rock-cut art. It is also well known globally for its Shore temple. The sculpture, here, is particularly interesting because it shows scenes of day-to- day life, in contrast with the rest of the state of Tamil Nadu, where the carvings generally depict gods and goddesses.

The most famous tourist attraction in Mahabalipuram is the Beach Temples. The five Rathas or chariots are architectural marvels of the temples of South India. The smallest is the Draupadi ratha and the largest is the multi - storied Dharma raja ratha carved out from a monolithic rock. These small unfinished shrines, wrecked by war and weather are reflections of undestroyed beauty. The Varaha Cave is a small rock cut mandapam that is a faceted and finished gem with four panels of the famous Pallava doorkeepers. The most spectacular sight at Mahabalipuram is the Shore Temple a sentinel of history standing up against the lashing waves. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is a visual delight with a plethora of architectural display like the compound wall lined with charming sculptures of Nandi, the bull and the figure of Vishnu in the sanctum sanctorum. Arjuna’s Penance is perhaps, world’s largest bas relief. The Sculpture Museum contains more than 3000 sculptures by the local artisans, made in wood, metal, brass and cement.

Chennai (58-km) is the nearest airport to Mahabalipuram with both domestic and international terminus. The nearest railway stations are Chengalpattu (29-km) and Chennai (58-km). From these stations one has to take road to reach the Mahabalipuram. Buses are available from Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai to Mahabalipuram daily. The road to Mahabalipuram is good. Tourists can also hire a taxi from Chennai.

India Holiday Travel.com provides information on Mahabalipuram and different tourist places around Tamil Nadu.