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South
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Mamallapuram |
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ABOUT MAMALLAPURAM
Though it is no longer a port, Mamallapuram has retained its fame,thanks to the
great Pallava artisans. It is among the most outstanding examples of Dravidian
art and architecture
Despite this, Mamallapuram's wonders in rock leave visitors enthralled,
conveying as they do, an impression of beauty, harmony, gentle wit and humour.
The Mamallapuram dance festival is conducted every year during Jan -
Feb.Classical dances such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Odissi are
performed by well known exponents of the art.
Area 8 sq, kms(3,5sqmiles)
Altitude Sea level
Rainfall 32.5 cms average
PLACES TO SEE
Arjuna's Penance
This skilfully carved rock is the largest bas - relief sculpture in the world.
It gets its name from the figure of an ascetic who is believed to be Arjuna, the
hero of Mahabharata, doing penance to obtain a boon from Lord Siva. However,
there are others who think that the figure is actually Bhagiratha who entreated
Siva to let the river Ganges flow over the earth.
Among the other carvings on the rock are animals and heavenly beings witnessing
the descent of the Ganges from the Himalayas and some episodes from the
Panchatantra tales.
Krishna Mandapam
This cave has a big bas relief, notable for its realistic representation. The
panel relates one of the stories of Lord Krishna. Bas-Relief.- The World's
largest bas relief measuring 27m X 9m is the pride of Mamallapuram. This huge
whale back shaped rock contains figures of gods, demigods, men, beasts, birds
and infact, representatives of the entire creation.
 Five Rathas
These rock-cut temples are rated as excellent example of Pallava art. Shaped in
different styles, the five structures are named after the Pandava brothers of
Mahabharatha and Draupadi. These are monolithic temples, each created in a
different style, They are also known as the Pancha Pandava Rathas, and the fort
of the rathas are supposed to have been scooped out of a single rock formation.
The Shore Temple
This is one of the oldest temples in South India. It belongs to the 8th Century
AD and is a good example of the first phase of structural temples constructed in
Dravidian style
EXCURSION
Kanchipuram :
(66kms) West of Mamallapuram. This temple town was once the capital of the
Pallava dynasty. The silk sarees produced here are renowned throughout the
world.
Vedanthangal : (53kms) One of the major water bird sanctuaries in India.
The birds migrate here every year from November to February, from all over the
world.
Covelong (20kms) A lovely beach resort
Crocodile Bank : (14kms) About 5000 Crocodiles representing 6 species and
other reptiles are reared here
TRAVEL INFO
Mamallapuram is 60 kms from Chennai and connected by a good road that runs along
the coast. It is also connected to Chengalpattu via Tirukkalukunram. There are
bus services to Mamallapuram from Chennai and Chengalpattu. The nearest railway
station is Chengalpattu while Chennai is the closest airport. Regular tourist
coaches ply every day. Consult Tourism Office for timings.
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