Located on the Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, The Shore Temple temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and foremost among tourist attractions. If you are curious about where the Shore Temple is located and who the builders of the Shore Temple are, read along: The article covers all about the temple and its history, architecture, and importance.
Where is Shore Temple Located?
Shore Temple is located at Mahabalipuram, a small historical town of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is coastal and about 60 km south of Chennai. Obviously, such a place becomes the weekend haunt of tourists as well as history buffs. The temple, part of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, stands majestically overlooking the Bay of Bengal, providing the best views during sunrise and sunset.
How to Reach Shore Temple
- By Air: The nearest airport is the Chennai International Airport, which is 58 km away and very well connected to the major cities of India and the world.
- By Rail: Nearest from Chengalpattu Railway Station, which is 29 km away, taxis and buses are available.
- By Road: East Coast Road (ECR) well connects fast-moving buses and taxis from Chennai, Pondicherry, and other nearby cities.
Geographical Importance
- Coordinates: 1 12°36′59″N 80°11′55″E / 12.61639°N 80.19861°E
- Nearest Town: Chennai (60 km approximately)
- Accessibility: Well-linked by road from Chennai, Puducherry, and other accessible cities
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, while the pleasant weather reigns
Deities Worshipped in Shore Temple
More dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple, the Shore Temple Mahabalipuram, comprises a pair of shrines dedicated to him that denote the overwhelming presence of Shaivism during the Pallava regime. This temple boasts exquisitely-carved Shivalingas and Nandi statues outside the sanctum-sanitum, the holy bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva, respectively. Not only is Shiva worshiped within this religious edifice, but there is also a temple to Lord Vishnu, who lies reclining here and is called Anantasayana Vishnu as he rests on the serpent Adi Shesha.
This combination of Shaivism and Vaishnavism epitomizes the prevailing religious unity of the time and makes the site of the temple more spiritually valuable. The Shore Temple Mahabalipuram exudes divine glory and features finely sculptured images honoring myths and the worship of India.
Who Built Shore Temple?
The Pallava king Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) built the Shore Temple Mahabalipuram in the 8th century AD. The construction of the temple complex was done using granite blocks quarried from nearby quarries. Unlike the monolithic rock-cut temples in Mahabalipuram, the Shore Temple is one of the first structural temples constructed in South India, thus marking the evolution of temple architecture.
Historical Background
- Constructed by Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha)
- Date of construction: circa 700-728 AD
- One of the earliest stone temples in South India
- Survived the many decades of coastal erosion, retaining its fame as an architectural wonder.
Architecture of Shore Temple
The Shore Temple Mahabalipuram is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings and pyramidal structure. The temple complex comprises three shrines, the main two shrines being for Lord Shiva, while the second shrine is for Lord Vishnu.
Key Architectural Features:
- Pyramid Tower: The shrine features a five-tier pyramidal vimana (tower), rising to an altitude of about 60 feet.
- Granite Construct: The Shore Temple, as opposed to the rest of the temples in Mahabalipuram, is constructed of blocks of granite.
- Double Shrines: The temple has two shrines for Lord Shiva and one for Lord Vishnu- Symbol of the contemporary era’s religious harmony.
- Intricate Carvings: The walls will have sculptures depicting deities, as well as mythical creatures, and many everyday life scenes from the Pallava period.
- Protective Wall: The temple is of coastal shedding, thus a stone wall encircles it to protect it from sea erosion.
Sculptures and Reliefs
- The temple has magnificent carvings of Nandi (sacred bull of Lord Shiva).
- The Anantasayana Vishnu (reclining Vishnu) sculpture inside the temple is a major attraction.
- Walls adorned with celestial beings and mythical creatures from Hindu epic
Importance of Shore Temple Mahabalipuram
The Shore Temple Mahabalipuram is such an architectural marvel; it embodies the rich culture of India. It is a witness to the artistic brilliance of Pallavas along with the monument’s engineering skills.
- Cultural-Religious Significance
- World heritage site for UNESCO in historic significance.
- Amongst the oldest of all surviving structural temples south of the region.
- Important pilgrimage for its Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
- One of the most prominent attractions during the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival.
Restoration and Conservation Efforts
With its closeness to the sea, the Shore Temple got corroded over the years. Several conservation programs have taken the history of the site forward.
- Conservation measures are implemented by ASI-Archaeological Survey of India against further damage.
- Sandbags and barricades have been arranged to reduce the impact of sea waves.
- Continuous monitoring ensures that the temple will remain structurally sound for future generations.
Visiting Shore Temple
Amenities
- Parking: There is large parking space around the temple both for two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
- Restroom: Public toilets are in the entrance area.
- Shops/Eateries: There are some shops and food stalls around the temple selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
- Guided Tours: You can hire local guides who will give you a deep insight into the area’s historical background.
- Seating Areas: They have benches and shaded areas for people to relax.
If you are planning to visit the Shore Temple Mahabalipuram, here’s everything you need to know:
Timings and Entry Fee
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Open all days)
- Entry Fee:
- Indian Visitors: ₹40 per person
- Foreign Tourists: ₹600 per person
- Children (below 15 years): Free entry
- Photography Allowed: Yes (Extra charge for professional cameras)
Nearby Attractions
While you are at the Shore Temple, you may also give a visit to other historic places in Mahabalipuram:
- Pancha Rathas: A group of five monolithic rock temples.
- Arjuna’s Penance: An enormous open-air rock repose.
- Krishna’s Butterball: A gigantic balancing rock.
- Mahabalipuram Beach: A scenic spot for relaxation and water activities.
Also Read: Arunachalam Temple Timings: Darshan & Best Time to Visit
Conclusion
The exquisite Shore Temple Mahabalipuram remains an architectural marvel, holding the attention of historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike. Whether you admire its complex history, the beauty of Dravidian architecture, or its distinction as a World Heritage Site, visiting this temple takes you on a historical backtrack. Now that you know exactly where the Shore Temple is located and who built the Shore Temple, make a trip to see this magnificent monument and take in its magnificence with your own eyes.
FAQs
Where is the Shore Temple located?
Shore Temple lies in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, which is approximately 60 kilometers from Chennai.
Who constructed the Shore Temple?
The temple was constructed by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) around the 8th century AD.
Why is the Shore Temple renowned?
The temple is one of the ancient structural temples situated in South India and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What is the ideal period to visit the Shore Temple?
From October to March, the weather will be pleasant for sightseeing.
Is photography permitted inside the Shore Temple?
Yes, photography is permitted; however, a fee may be charged for the use of professional-grade cameras.
