Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Tamil Nadu

Discover Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu

The popular town of Mamallapuram attracts visitors all year round to experience the combination of UNESCO World Heritage Sites landmarks and modern life. Mahabs (as it’s known locally) is a place where new and old meet, making it an ideal stop on your tour of South India.

It has a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Site temples, rock-cut caves and one of the largest open air rock reliefs in the world. The intricately carved Shore Temple, which overlooks the Bay of Bengal, is a perfect place to watch the sun set. Meanwhile, Othavadai Street is a popular traveller’s hangout spot, a place to grab a plate of Tibetan momos and a beer. Mamallapuram is also a renowned surfing destination.

Things to do in Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu

• Temple by the sea – Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, the intricately carved World Heritage Site Shore Temple is the perfect place to watch the sunset.
• Superb sculpture – Mamallapuram is renowned for its giant open air reliefs, including the impressive 29m × 13m ‘Descent of the Ganges’ telling the story of the descent of the sacred river to Earth from the heavens. The five rathas are also well worth a visit – monuments carved over a monolith of granite in the shape of chariots. All of these temples are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Making waves – Mamallapuram is the perfect place to ride the waves. It has its own surfing school if you want to give it a go, or improve your skills.
• Hangout in style –After a day’s sightseeing or surfing, head out to Othavadi Street to try some Tibetan Momos (small flour dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken)

The best way to see Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu

If you would like to visit Mamallapuram, why not take a look at one of our wonderful ATOL and ABTA protected holidays?  Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and the tours mentioned are just examples to help inspire you. Contact our travel experts on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com for more information.