Also known as Mamallapuram, the city of Mahabalipuram is famous for its ancient and cultural heritage. The city of Mahabalipuram was a prominent seaport dating back to 7th century AD and was ruled by the Pallava Dynasty. The place is famous for its monuments and is classified among the UNESCO world heritage sites. Almost all of the monuments are carved out of Granite and display the brilliance of Dravidian style architecture. The town is otherwise a small one and the best way to get around it either by foot or bike rental. The attractions in the whole town can be covered in a day or two. The city is bustling with tourists most times of the year except monsoons. The amazing location of this place adds to the charm of the monuments and the intricate carvings. The temples here are a marvel to behold and with the aid of a knowledgeable tour guide one can totally get lost in the ancient stories behind each of the monuments.
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How to Reach
Air
Chennai International Airport about 53 kms away (1 hour) from the city is the nearest airport. It has good connectivity from all states of India and is even connected to other nations. Take a cab or bus from the airport to any part of the city.
Rail
Chennai Central station (MAS) in Chennai is the nearest railway station about 58 kms away (close to 1 hour). It is connected to all states of India and a cab or bus can be taken from here to any part of the city.
Road
MTC (Metropolitan Transport Corporation ) and TNSTC (Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation) run buses to and fro Mahabalipuram at regular intervals.
Places to Visit
Arjuna’s Penance
Thirukadalmallai
Cave Temples
Shore Temple
Pancha Rathas
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About Kanyakumari
The southernmost tip of mainland India, Kanyakumari was formerly known by the name Cape Comorin. The ancient town of Kanyakumari was an important site during the Reign of the Chola, Chera and Pandya dynasty. The town is famous for its beautiful beaches, temples, monuments and cultural centers. The town is also famous for its distinctive culture and hospitable people. The place due to its unique location witnesses a marvel like only a few places in the world has seen i.e. the sunrise and the sunset can be viewed at the same beach. The town lays at the confluence of three bodies of water namely the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal and is thus considered an important pilgrimage site in the south of India. The temples here are built in Dravidian style of architecture. The various south Indian delicacies served here are great and light on the stomach and include some of the south Indian classics like Sambhar, Idli and Dosa etc. a trip to this town is sure to refresh your senses.