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Historical & Heritage | Pilgrimage
4.5 / 5
  • Timings : 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
  • Entry Fee : None
  • Distance from near by city 56.7 KMs from Chennai
  • Trip duration (including travel in hours)1 to 2 Hours
  • Transportation OptionsSedan - AC (4+1), SUV - AC (7+1), Tempo Traveller - AC (12+1)
  • Travel Tips None

Ganesha Ratha is a very famous temple which is located in Mahabalipuram. This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is believed that during the rule of the Pallavas dynasty, the temple was constructed in the 7th century AD. This temple is so popular because the temple is constructed with a monolith granite rock. So, among the different places to visit in Mahabalipuram, this Ganesha Ratha temple attracts the highest level of attraction.

Not only this, but this temple is one of the five Rathas that are present in Mahabalipuram. A very beautiful Dravidian and Buddhist architecture is followed inside the temple. The temple has a rectangular base, and along with that, the roof of the temple is in a pyramid structure. 

On the temple wall, you will find beautiful carvings of Hindu mythology. 

There is a sanctum sanctorum which is present inside the temple. Here, you will find Lord Ganesha's statue. The statue is created in a very beautiful way. Lord Ganesha's arms are holding various objects like a Lotus in one hand, a rope in the other hand, an axe, and a lot. 

On the walls of the temple, you will find carvings of Lord Shiva, lord Vishnu, and goddess Durga. 

The Architecture and history of Ganesha Ratha

The famous Ganesha Ratha temple was constructed during the rule of the Pallavas Dynasty. Along with the Statue of lord Ganesha that is present inside the temple, you will also find Carvings of various other deities. 

Narasimha Varman 1 was a very famous king of the Pallavas dynasty. He had a huge inclination toward art and architecture. He started the construction of the famous Ganesha Ratha Temple. Later on, the temple was fully constructed by Mahendra Verman 1. 

Overall, Ganesha Ratha is a beautiful temple that has breathtaking architecture and purity. If you love historical places and temples, you should definitely have a look at this place. So while going for a Mahabalipuram Tour Package, remember to add this beautiful temple.

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13 places to visit & things to do in Mahabalipuram

Arjunas penance
Crocodile & Snake Bank
Kovalam Beach
Krishnas Butter Ball
Mahabalipuram beach
Mandapam/caves Mahabalipuram
Mudaliar Kuppam
Pancha Rathas of Mahabalipuram
Sculpture Museum Mahabalipuram
Shore temple
Thirukalukundram
Tiger Caves Mahabalipuram
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary