Shore Temple all Information

SHORE TEMPLE is located in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. The temple is named shore because it overlooks the shore of Bay of Bengal. Shore temple is one of the temples mentioned in the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE site.

ARCHITECTURE

Built by Narasimhavarman II (PALLAVA DYNASTY)
Dravidian style of architecture
Built with the blocks of granite.
The main Shore Temple, faces east so that the sun rays shine on the main deity of Shiva Linga.
The temple is a combination of three shrines. One for Lord Vishnu and two for Lord Shiva.
The temple walls have sculptures of Nandi.

HISTORY

As per legends, the Shore Temple was a part of the Seven Pagodas in Mahabalipuram. As history claims, Prince Hiranyakasipu did not believe in Lord Vishnu. However, his son Prahlada was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu which forced Prince Hiranyakasipu to banish Prahlada from the kingdom. Later Prahlada became the king. He had a grandson named Bali who also founded Mahabalipuram.

Shore Temple was given the name ‘Seven Pagodas’ when they saw a tall structure standing alongside the seashore. This temple was considered as a landmark for navigating ships. Apart from this, the structure resembled that of a Pagoda and hence the familiarity.

TIMINGS

6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

FESTIVAL AT MAMALLAPURAM/MAHABALIPURAM

The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is held every year during Dec-Jan. This dance festival is organised by Department of Tourism, Govt. of Tamil Nadu. Exponents of Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odissi, Mohini Attam and Kathakali are performed.

TIPS FOR VISITING THE TEMPLE

Still photography can be taken for free. Videos will be charged at INR 25.
Cameras are allowed.
Surrounding monuments can be visited free of cost.
Ticket counters will be closed after 5:30PM.
Prices for the tickets :

Cost: Indians: RS 10

Foreigners: RS 340

Children (below 15 years): Free

HOW TO REACH

Take bus to mahabalipuram from kanchipuram, puducherry or any other nearby tourist area.
Nearest Railway Station :Ottivakkam Railway Station,Chengalpattu Junction Railway Station,Paranur Railway Station,Singaperumal Koil Railway Station,Padalam Railway Station Maraimalai Nagar Railway Station Kattangulattur Railway Station,Potheri Railway Station,Guduvancheri Railway Station,Redipalayam Railway Station.
Nearest Airport :Chennai International Airport