Though it is no longer a port, Mamallapuram has retained its fame in stone, thanks to the great contribution of Pallava artisans. It is among the most outstanding examples of Dravidian art and architecture and a jewel in the crown of Tamil Nadu. In a land that is liberally strewn with some of the best in temple art, Mamallapuram holds its own, and stands as a silent yet eloquent witness to the glory of its creators.Unfortunately most of the work was left incomplete, and time and nature have also eroded the remains of this once great port.
Yet, Mamallapuram's wonders in rock leave visitors enthralled, conveying as they do, an impression of beauty and harmony. The monuments are floodlit at night and so it is possible to enjoy their beauty even after sunset. The Mamallapuram dance festival is conducted every year during Dec-Jan. It is a month long festival and dances take place during the weekends. Classical dances such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Mohini Attam, Odissi, Kathak etc., are performed by well-known exponents of the art.
Pickup at your Chennai hotel at 8am, travel with your guide in a private air-conditioned car with driver to Mamallapuram. At the Pancha Rathas (also known as the Five Rathas), your guide explains the rock-cut temples before moving on to Arjuna's Penance, home of one of the world's largest bas-reliefs. Here, your guide points out details of the huge whale-shaped rock which has been intricately carved with figures of gods, demigods, men, beasts, and birds creating a scene which some say represents creation.
At 12:30pm, stop for lunch at a restaurant of your choice (additional cost) then, around 1pm, proceed to Mahishasuramardhini Mandapa (also known as the Cave Temple or Yampuri). Next, visit the Krishna's Butterball, a precariously balanced rock on a slope near the Ganesh Ratha.
Around 5:30pm, relax in your private car to return to your hotel in Chennai (Madras) arriving around 4pm.
Visit Five Rathas, Arjuna Dhabas, Krishna Mandap, Mahishasuramardinicave temples, Krishna Butter Ball
Duration : 8 hrs / Full Day
Inclusions
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Hotel Pickup and drop-off Chennai Hotel
- All necessary transportation to/from site attractions
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Lunch
- Tips (optional)
- Entrance to Monuments
For Tours
- 7 days before Start of the tour No Charge
- 3 Days before start of the tour 50 % of the amount will be refunded.
- Cancellation 48 hours or lesser no refund.
- For Refund thru Credit Card 5% Bank charges Applicable
For Transfers
- 24 Hours before Start of the transfer.
- For Refund thru Credit Card 5% Bank charges Applicable