Day 2: Kanchipuarm and Mahabalipuram
After breakfast proceed for a full day tour first to the very famous Silk town of Kancheepuram. Visit the largest and most renowned temples here. The silk of kancheepuram is exported to all countries in the world and the weavers have it just right. Experience this perfection by buying yourself a garment in silk- an unforgettable and priced souvenir to take back home.
Then move on to Mahabalipuram also known as Mamallapuram is a town in Kancheepuram district. It has a group of sanctuaries, which was carved out of rock along the Coromandel coast in the 7th and 8th centuries : rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries), giant open-air reliefs such as the famous ‘Descent of the Ganges’, and the Shore Temple, with thousands of sculptures to the glory of Shiva. The group of monuments at Mahabalipuram has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some important structures include:
• Thirukadalmallai, the temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It was also built by Pallava King in order to safeguard the sculptures from the ocean. It is told that after building this temple, the remaining architecture was preserved and was not corroded by sea.
• Descent of the Ganges or Bagiratha’s Penance – a giant open-air bas relief
Varaha Cave Temple – a small rock-cut temple dating back to the 7th century.
• The Shore Temple – a structural temple along the Bay of Bengal with the entrance from the western side away from the sea. Recent excavations have revealed new structures here.
• Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots) – five monolithic pyramidal structures named after the Pandavas (Arjuna, Bhima, Yudhishtra, Nakula and Sahadeva) and Draupadi. An interesting aspect of the rathas is that, despite their sizes they are not assembled – each of these is carved from one single large piece of stone.
• Light House, built in 1894.
Then proceed to Muttukadu Boat House where you can have a pleasurable boat ride of your choice, the way you like it. Choose between Row boating, Speed boating or Power boat rides.
Drop off at the hotel. Overnight stay.