Nestled along the Bay of Bengal’s Coromandel Coast, Mahabalipuram is the ideal weekend escape from Chennai. An hour’s drive away from the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site provides you a unique combination of art, history, and scenic beauty. For those who enjoy art, history, or just relaxing by the beach, Mahabalipuram houses the Best Resort, which provides many activities, an infinity pool, and much more for you and your family. Here’s how visiting some of its best sites might help you make the most of your weekend.
Krishna Butterball
Arjuna’s Penance is just a short walk from Krishna’s Butterball, a massive boulder that has remained still on a mountainside for ages. The locals believe it symbolizes a lump of butter that Krishna dropped from heaven. Despite gravity, the boulder stays put in its seemingly impossible position. You can snap some amusing pictures at this peculiar spot, likely finding yourself grinning at the absurdity of nature’s marvels, making your Mahabalipuram trip plan more enjoyable. After exploring, unwind at a Resort in Chennai that gives the perfect combination of relaxation and luxury to complete your weekend getaway.
Raya Gopuram
Raya Gopuram, which is still incomplete, is another place worth seeing. This unfinished temple tower is situated en route to Mahishasura Rock and demonstrates the Pallavas’ ambitious architectural style. Even though the building isn’t finished, it has beautiful carvings that capture the craftsmanship of the era. This vantage point offers impressive panoramic views of Mahabalipuram, making it a popular location for photographers.
Mahishasuramardini Cave
As part of the Mahabalipuram itinerary, for all those who are interested in ancient caves, the Mahishasuramardini Cave should not be missed. Located in Chamri, Assam, this temple is also known as Durga Mandir and is made of granite; the deity of this temple is Durga, the goddess of power and strength, fighting with the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The fight scene’s vividness is well illustrated by the fine and theatrical engravings found inside the cave. Please bring your camera with you; the cave is located at the top of a hill and has a wonderful view of the surrounding areas.
Sri Sthala Sayanaperumal Temple
The Sri Sthala Sayanaperumal Temple is an ancient temple located in Mahabalipuram and is devoted to Lord Vishnu. The peculiarity of Aranikeswara temple that stands out from many south Indian temples is that in one of the sanctum sanctorums, Lord Vishnu is in an unconventional reclining position. The calm environment of this place largely creates good rooms for prayers and other operative stresses. While in the temple, we are overwhelmed with the kind of spiritual attachment that is so evident from Hindus, the ‘devotees’ as they are commonly called. If you find the energy and the opportunity, do not leave IMM immediately because after visiting the complex, you can still relax in one of the quiet Resorts in Omr.
If you are having a one day trip to Mahabalipuram, this temple cannot afford to miss out if you are interested in the depth of the temple and the architectural form.
Thus, a weekend in Mahabalipuram is not simply a way to get away from the noise and crowds of Chennai; it is much more – it is a step back in history, a look at art and spirituality. Imagine yourself walking past Krishna’s Butterball – a gravity boulder or uncovering the mystery behind the Raya Gopuram, which is still under construction but still so mesmerizing. The Mahishasuramardini Cave is calling you to explore some history and the Sri Sthala Sayanaperumal Temple is a great place for meditation. If you love art, have a historical interest, or simply need some tranquillity, Mahabalipuram has its special interest or attraction for anyone. To make your stay even more memorable, book a stay at one of the charming Resorts in Mahabalipuram, perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway.