A Memorable Trip to Mahabalipuram - Shore Temple

Shore Temple:This is one of the important landmarks on the Coramandel Coast in the Bay of Bengal. One of the oldest structural temples of South India, this was built during 700-728 AD during the reign of Pallava King Narasimhavarman II. The main temple faces east so that the suns rays shine directly on the main shrine housing thShiva Linga (Dharalinga). There is also a smaller shrine devoted to Lord Shiva (Kshatriyasimheswara). There are two pyramidal shikaras or pagodas atop these shrines. Between the two shrines is a small shrine devoted to a reclining Vishnu. The Shore Temple is a magnificently sculpted monument which proudly stands erect even after so many centuries enduring the ravages of time. There has been some erosion and certain amount of damage as a result of the 2004 tsunami. The Dharalinga is in Rajasimha style carved out of black basalt stone. It has sixteen faces with slight fluting to create a crown at the top. The 6 ft high linga is damaged at the top. Another distinctive feature is a Somaskanda panel of the inner walls facing Kshatriyasimheswara temple.
Kudos to ASI for the meticulous upkeep and maintenance of the shore temple campus which has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The two panoramic photos at the end are testimony to this.  

Guhan and Buddha

 

Twin Pagodas of the Shore Temple

 

 

The 16 sided dharalingam slightly damaged at the top

Bas relief of Somaskandar

Small shrine of Boovarahamurthy

 

 

Durga astride the lion vahana - a small garbha griha in the lions chest.
Below are two scintillating panoramic views at the Temple site