Shore Temples are a scenic spot located in Mahabalipuram in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, on the Coromandel Coast in the Bay of Bengal. The Shore Temple attracts tourists and devotees visiting Mahabalipuram. This temple is a symbol of ancient monuments and the sculpture of Shore Temple is a beautiful example of Pallava architecture. Apart from this, a glimpse of Dravidian architecture during the 7th and 8th century can also be seen in the temple. Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram has also been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the year 1984. The major deities of the Shore Temple are Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
Architecture
The Shore Temple is a beautiful five-story rock-structural building consisting of three magnificent temples. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shri Hari Vishnu. The Shore Temple has a height of 60 feet which is a pyramidal structure. This spectacular temple built in a 50 square feet area and is a wonderful example of Dravidian architecture. It is one of the most beautiful stone temples in India. The deities are worshiped with great pomp in the pride house inside the temple. Towards the back of the temple are two sightseeing shrines dedicated to Kshatriyasimneshwar and Lord Vishnu. Lord Shri Hari Vishnu is depicted bending over the Sheshnag which is known as a symbol of consciousness in Hinduism.
Structure
The structure of the Shore Temple features beautifully carved sculptures both inside and outside the temple. The beautiful structure of Nandi Maharaj or Nandi bull is Bakai worth visiting. The structure of the Shore Temple has been designed in such a way that the first rays of the sun fall on the Shore Temple Mahabalipuram and at sunset, the beautiful image of the temple can be seen in the water. A beautiful dance festival is organized in the month of January-February at the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram which helps in increases tourism in Mahabalipuram.
There are three temples present inside the Shore Temple. In the middle, there is a temple of Lord Vishnu while on both sides there are temples of Lord Shiva. The names of the three temples are Kshatriyasimha Palleswara-Gruham, Rajasimha Palleswara-Gruham, and Plikondarulia-Dewar according to the Swara inscription according to a stone structure located in the Shore Temple. It is because of the unique structure of the Shore Temple that it has been named Seven Pagodas. Although the Seven Pagodas point to the existence of seven such temples, this is the only temple left during the present time. The Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram is a spectacular stone temple built of granite stones. Shore Temples are among the beautiful stone temples of South India.
The Shore Temple located in Mahabalipuram was known as a beautiful landmark (port) during the Pallava dynasty. The Shore temple is believed to be a milestone for the navigation system of ships. But with time, it has transformed into a scenic spot of the place where long queues of tourists come to see. The Shore Temple is divided into several sections and each section has a different deity. The structure of the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram is characterized by beautiful paintings, attractive sculptures, and pictures of Shero which shows that this place is a symbol of art and culture. The most interesting thing about the temple is that the structure of the temple is monolithic and has been designed like a Panch chariot. Some parts of the temple have been destroyed due to its proximity to the sea.
How to reach Shore Temple
Shore Temple is situated in Mahabalipuram which is well-connected with the other cities of the states. The nearest railway station is the Otivakkam Railway Station which is situated at a distance of 27 km which can be covered by availing the cab or taxi from the railway station. The nearest airport from Mahabalipuram is the Chennai International Airport at a distance of 60 km. One can catch a bus or avail a taxi to reach the temple.
Best time to visit Shore Temple
Winter season is the best time to visit Shore Temple. The months from October to March are the ideal months to pay the visit. During this time the weather remains pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. Early mornings and evenings brings relief from the scorching heat during other months.
Places to visit nearby the Shore Temple
Mahabalipuram has a lot to offer to visitors in every season which includes the variety of monuments, museums, beaches, temples, and many other famous tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram. There are a plethora of them such as Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple, Arjun’s Penance, Ganesh Ratha, Five Rathas, Sculpture Museum, etc. Know more about Mahabalipuram tourism guide before visit Mahabalipuram to know all the things.
Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram Timings: 6:00 A.M to 6:00 P.M
Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram Entry Fees: INR 10 for Indian nationals and INR 250 for foreign nationals (This fees also includes the entry fee to Five Rathas)
