Mahabalipuram Shore Temple – Guide
Shore Temple is a tourist attraction located in Mahabalipuram in the state of Tamil Nadu, which is located on the Coromandel Coast in the Bay of Bengal. This temple is a symbol of ancient monuments and the sculpture of Shore Temple is a beautiful example of Pallava architecture. Glimpses of Dravidian architectural style during 7-8th century are also seen in the temple. Shore Temple has also been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the year 1984. The presiding deities of the Shore Temple are Lord Vishnu and lord Shiva.
History of this Temple
The Mahabalipuram Shore Temple was built during the reign of King Narasimhavarman II but later the Cholas built additional parts. The Shore Temple was built during 700-728 AD.
It is believed that the demon king Hiranyakashyap and his son Prahlad are related to this temple. It is said that Lord Shri Hari Vishnu incarnated as Narasimha killed Hiranyakashyap at this place. Prahlad became the king after the death of Hiranyakashipu. There is a popular story according to which King Bali, the son of King Prahlad, had established this scenic temple of Mahabalipuram.
A beautiful dance festival is organized in the Shor Mandir in the month of January-February. Which increases tourism in Mahabalipuram at present.
Mahabalipuram Shore Temple Timings
Mahabalipuram Shore Temple opens at 6:00 AM in the morning and close at 6:00 PM in the evening. Morning aarti is performed at 7:00 AM in the morning and evening aarti is performed at 5:00 PM in the evening.
| Saturday | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Aarti: 07:00 AM & 05:00 PM |
| Sunday | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Aarti: 07:00 AM & 05:00 PM |
| Monday | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Aarti: 07:00 AM & 05:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Aarti: 07:00 AM & 05:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Aarti: 07:00 AM & 05:00 PM |
| Thursday | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Aarti: 07:00 AM & 05:00 PM |
| Friday | 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Aarti: 07:00 AM & 05:00 PM |
Places to visit near this Temple
European diary
The European Diary provides some interesting information about the Shore Temple and the Seven Pagodas. This diary was made by some European travelers. This place is few kms away from this temple.
A landmark
This landmark is known for it’s beautiful structure build during pallav dynasty. This place is few kms away from this temple.
Stone Temple
This temple is build from beautiful stones. This temple is located just near this Temple.
Seven Pegodas
Shore Temple is also known as seven pegodas due to its seven construction. This is the beautiful creation seen in the campus of this Temple.
Also Read: Lotus Temple Delhi, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach
How to reach Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
By Air- The nearest airport from Mahabalipuram Shore Temple is Chennai airport which is at a distance of 55 km away from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.
By Train- The nearest railway station from Mahabalipuram Shore Temple is Chennai railway station which is at a distance of about few kms from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.
By Road- The Roads to this temple is well connected with the Nearby major cities like Chennai, Pondicherry, Madurai and Coimbatore. First you must reach any one of these places and from here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.
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