The Shore Temple stands on a low rise right at the edge of the Bay of Bengal in Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram). It was built in granite blocks around 700–728 CE in the reign of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II, also known as Rajasimha, and it is one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India. Earlier Pallava monuments in the town were cut directly out of the living rock; here the builders assembled a temple from dressed stone, a step towards the great Chola temples that followed.
The temple is part of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). There is no active worship today.
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What makes it special
Most South Indian temples face east, and so does the main shrine here, looking straight out to sea. The effect is striking at sunrise, when the first light falls on the sanctum. The two slim pyramidal towers, one larger than the other, are an early form of the Dravidian vimana that later grew into the huge towers of Thanjavur.
Centuries of salt wind have softened the carvings, which gives the temple its weathered look. The ASI has built a breakwater and groynes to protect it from the waves and treats the stone to slow the erosion.
What to see
- Two Shiva shrines: the larger east-facing shrine and a smaller west-facing one, each with its own tower. A panel of Somaskanda (Shiva with Parvati and their son Skanda) is carved on the rear wall of the sanctum.
- Reclining Vishnu: a small shrine between the two towers holds an image of Vishnu lying down, showing how Shaiva and Vaishnava worship shared the same complex.
- Nandi figures: rows of small seated bulls line the top of the compound wall.
- Lion and Durga: a monolithic lion sculpture with a small figure of Durga (Mahishasuramardini) in the compound.
- The sea view: walk around the outer edge for the classic view of the towers against the water.
Legends and the 2004 tsunami
Old European sailors’ accounts spoke of the “Seven Pagodas” of Mahabalipuram, suggesting there were once more temples along this shore. When the sea drew back before the tsunami of December 2004, people reported seeing stone structures offshore, and later underwater surveys found remains of other buildings. The Shore Temple itself survived the tsunami.
Tickets and timings
At the time of writing, the monuments are open from about 6 AM to 6 PM. An ASI ticket costs about ₹40 for Indian visitors and ₹600 for foreign visitors, with free entry for children under 15; tickets can also be bought online. One ticket covers the Shore Temple and the Pancha Rathas on the same day, so keep it with you. Fees are revised from time to time, so check before you go.
Best time to visit
November to February brings the most pleasant weather. Arrive at opening time for soft light and fewer people, or come in the late afternoon. The Mamallapuram Dance Festival, held by Tamil Nadu Tourism around December and January, uses the monuments as a backdrop for evening classical dance performances.
Practical tips
- Heat: there is little shade inside the compound. Carry water, a hat and sunscreen.
- Beach: the temple faces the beach, but the sea here has strong currents. Paddling at the edge is fine; swimming is not advised.
- Footwear: shoes are allowed in the grounds, since it is not a working temple.
- Combine: Arjuna’s Penance, Krishna’s Butter Ball and the Pancha Rathas are all within a short drive.
- Crowds: weekends and public holidays are busy with day-trippers from Chennai.
Visiting from Pondicherry
Mahabalipuram is about 96 km from Pondicherry along the East Coast Road, around two hours by car, which makes it an easy day trip. Our Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram heritage tour covers the Shore Temple and the other monuments by car with driver, and you can also pair it with Chennai. See our heritage page for more.
Official information: UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Frequently asked questions
Who built the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram?
The Pallava king Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha), in the early 8th century CE, around 700–728 CE.
What is the Shore Temple entry fee?
At the time of writing, about ₹40 for Indian visitors and ₹600 for foreign visitors, free for children under 15. The same ticket covers the Pancha Rathas on the same day.
What are the Shore Temple timings?
About 6 AM to 6 PM daily at the time of writing, with ticket counters closing a little earlier. Check before you go.
Is the Shore Temple a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes. It is part of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, inscribed in 1984.
Is the Shore Temple still used for worship?
No. It is a protected ASI monument and no regular worship takes place.
