Shore Temple - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 2 km from Mahabalipuram Bus Station, the Shore Temple is an ancient temple situated on the shore of Bay of Bengal in Mahabalipuram. It is one of the most photographed monuments of heritage in India, and among the must-visit Mahabalipuram tourist places.

Shore Temple was built in the 7tcentury CE by Pallavas during the reign of Narasimhavarman. It is one of the oldest temples in South India constructed in the Dravidian style and depicts the royal taste of the Pallava dynasty. It has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the 'Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram'. It is one of the must include places in Mahabalipuram trip.

Shore Temple is a structural temple built with blocks of granite. It is so named because it overlooks the Bay of Bengal. The Shore Temple is a five-storeyed structural Hindu temple rather than rock-cut as are the other monuments at the site. It is the earliest important structural temple in Southern India. Its pyramidal structure is 60 ft high and sits on a 50 ft square platform. There is a small temple in front which was the original porch. It is claimed to be a part of Seven Pagodas by the legends and is one of the finest places to visit in Mahabalipuram.

This temple has three shrines where two of which are dedicated to Lord Shiva and the other one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The place is very clean and its location made it a major attraction among the tourists. Shore Temple is located at the shore of Bay of Bengal which offers a beautiful view of the never-ending ocean.

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry: Rs. 10 for Indians, Rs. 340 for Foreigners & Rs. 25 for Still Camera