Mahabalipuram is derived from "Mamallapuram", the city of Mamalla, a title of Narasimhavarman I, the great Pallava ruler of the seventh century, who was responsible for scooping out most of the rock-cut temples and carvings at the place. But probably the name Mallai or even Mamallai was known earlier and used by early Vaishnava saints.
Another ancient name of the place was Kadalmallai referred to by the Vaishnava saint Tirumangaialvar, probably a contemporary of Nandivarman, one of the successors of Narasimhavarman he gives a graphic description of the harbour with its anchored ships laden with treasure, huge elephants and the nine gems. As Mallai, the place is known to be the birthplace of Bhutattalvar who preceded Tirumangaialvar.
The earliest reference to Mamallapuram in the European literature is found in the 'Carta Catalana' a world map produced in Spain in 1375, wherein the site is marked as 'Setemelti' an error for the Sette Templi or seven Temples in Spanish . In fact, this place was popular among the westerners particularly the mariners as the place of 'Seven Pagodas' possibly denoting the various superstructures of the temples that could be seen from the sea. Though the actual numbers exceed seven,
The Monuments at Mahabalipuram owe their origin to the Pallava rulers of south India . The Period between the later half of the sixth and the first half of the tenth century, nearly four hundred years is an important epoch in the history of south India and its culture. It coincides with the rise to power of three important dynasties, The Chalukyas of Vatapi modern Badami in Karnataka, The Pallavas of Kanchi modern Kanchipuram and the Pandyas of Madurai . The founders of the new Pallava dynasty of Kanchi were Simhavarma and his son Simhavishnuvarma alias Avanisimha. From the beginning, the Pallavas were a sea-faring people who spread Hindu culture in the Indian archipelago . The early inscriptions found here are written in the Pallava Grantha script.
Some famous tourist spots include the UNESCO world heritage site Group of Monuments like the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas
What is the best time to visit Mahabalipuram?
The best time to plan a trip to Mahabalipuram is when the winter season sets in, which is between October and March. The climate remains good with warm days and cold nights, ideal for outdoor activities and for exploring the town. The period from November to February is the peak tourism season when the climate is salubrious. Travelling to Mahabalipuram during summers are generally avoided because of the very high temperatures and the exhausting heat, which makes it difficult to travel around the town for sightseeing. The nearest airport is at Chennai
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