On October 21st, 2019, I had the chance to visit the historic town of Mamallapuram (also known as Mahabalipuram), one of the most renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. This coastal town, famous for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architectural wonders, has been buzzing with curiosity, especially after the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping. With that same curiosity in mind, my classmates and I decided to embark on a short excursion to this ancient gem.

The Journey To Mamallapuram

Our journey began from Guindy, and it took us around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Mamallapuram. Along the way, we passed by numerous resorts, restaurants, and nurseries—perfect spots to pick up some plants for your home. Traveling with a bunch of classmates who were “more than 20 years physically but less than 16 years mentally,” it wasn’t exactly a solitary trip, but it was certainly entertaining!

If you are curious about what is so nice about going there? It is that, you can get to breathe in some fresh air and get to see some colorful flora and fauna, and can feel the constant sea breeze.

First Stop: Tiger Cave

Location: Saluvankuppam; Entry Fee: ₹20

Our first stop was the Tiger Cave Mamallapuram, a fascinating site located about 15 minutes before reaching the Mamallapuram Shore Temple. This intriguing structure, carved out of a single large rock, features mythical tiger figures and is a must-see for anyone interested in historical places near Chennai. Though the site is small, it’s rich in history and aesthetic beauty. A short walk from the Tiger Cave, you’ll find a small temple featuring a Lingam at the center, guarded by a Nandhi statue.

Observing Nature: The Red & Black Butterfiles

While exploring this historical site, I noticed an unusual sight—red and black butterflies flying in large groups. These butterflies, which I observed throughout the trip, added an unexpected touch of natural beauty to the historic ambiance of Mamallapuram.

The Majestic Shore Temple

By 12 PM, we reached the iconic Shore Temple, one of the most famous Mamallapuram tourist places. This architectural wonder, built during the Pallava Dynasty in the 7th century, stands as the only remaining structure of the legendary Seven Pagodas. As one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, the Shore Temple is a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of our ancestors. It’s a powerful structure that leaves visitors in awe, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Shore Temple architecture and ancient Indian history.

Climbing the Mamallapuram Lighthouse: A Panoramic View

Another highlight of Mamallapuram is its lighthouse, which offers a breathtaking view of the entire town. The climb may be a bit challenging, but the panoramic view from the top is well worth the effort. The combination of the sea, the land, and the historical structures creates a truly humbling experience, making it one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu.

The Gravity-Defying Butterball Rock

One of the most fun experiences in Mamallapuram was visiting the Butterball Rock—a mysterious and massive rock that seems to defy gravity. No matter how hard you push, this rock won’t budge. It’s a popular spot, especially on rainy days, as people often slip and slide around it, creating scenes reminiscent of a Takeshi’s Castle episode. Just a tip: wear shoes with good grip and avoid heels if you plan on climbing up.

A Walk Dow The Memory Lane

Usually, you could find a lot of people near butterball. Especially school kids. It’s a hotspot for taking school kids for excursion. Contemporary school kids, are too cool for school, aren’t they? I have also previously visited Mamallapuram for my school trip when I was doing my 10th grade, 2011. We used to wear a dull boring uniform, pleated hair, asking for photographers to take photos for 30rs. Back then that 30Rs is very expensive for us! But at present, kids are like not struggling like we did. They are in cool casual clothes and are so independent, if you look at the picture, those kids were probably 6th grade and all of them had smartphones. I felt really old at that moment. 22 years and felt like I am from stone age while standing next to them. No… I felt like I was in another dimension all together.

Exploring the Mamallapuram Beach

After our historical tour, we spent some time on the Mamallapuram beach, where horse riding activities awaited us. Although we didn’t partake, it was nice to watch others enjoy the waves and the fresh sea breeze. A visit to the beach is an essential part of any Mamallapuram itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Mamallapuram Visit

Mamallapuram is filled with picturesque spots perfect for selfies and photographs, but to truly appreciate the town, consider hiring a guide. Learning about the rich Mamallapuram history behind each site will make your visit far more meaningful. If you prefer to explore on your own, take the time to research and create a Mamallapuram travel guide before your visit.

Before you leave, don’t forget to support the local vendors selling snacks, fruits, and raw mangoes. These kind people wait all day for visitors like you, so take a moment to enjoy some local treats and make their day a little brighter.

Mamallapuram, with its rich history and stunning architecture, is waiting for you to explore. So go ahead, embrace the Shores of History, and let this incredible Tamil Nadu tourism destination leave a lasting impression on your soul.

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