Olakkannesvara Temple
The Olakkannesvara Temple (often mistakenly called the "Old Lighthouse") is a structural temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in the early 8th century by the Pallava King Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II) using cut grey granite blocks; its name means "one who has a third eye (flame eye)," referring to Lord Shiva; it is perched dramatically atop the rock hill, overlooking the Mahishasuramardini Cave below; its square plan, two-tiered superstructure, and prominent location link it directly to the architectural style of the Shore Temple complex, though it has lost its original Vimana roof structure.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
30 MinutesPlace Type:
Structural Temple:Entry Fees:
Tickets: Same combined ticket (INR 40 Indian / INR 600 Foreigner) applies, as it is a protected monument within the central complex; there is no separate fee for the temple itself;
Lighthouse Note: The temple is free, but the adjacent Light...Tickets: Same combined ticket (INR 40 Indian / INR 600 Foreigner) applies, as it is a protected monument within the central complex; there is no separate fee for the temple itself;
Lighthouse Note: The temple is free, but the adjacent Lighthouse has a separate climb fee; ensure you have the combined ticket for the monument site.Timing:
Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM Daily (ASI Protected Site);
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) for sunrise over the ocean and a cool ascent; late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) is also ideal for the sunset view. ...Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM Daily (ASI Protected Site);
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) for sunrise over the ocean and a cool ascent; late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) is also ideal for the sunset view.Special Events:
Shivaratri: As a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it would have been the focal point of worship on the hill during the annual Maha Shivaratri festival in February/March, though contemporary rituals are minimal due to its ASI-protected status;
Sun...Shivaratri: As a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it would have been the focal point of worship on the hill during the annual Maha Shivaratri festival in February/March, though contemporary rituals are minimal due to its ASI-protected status;
Sunrise/Sunset Viewings: The site is often busy with visitors during these times, creating a unique collective experience.Best Photo Spots:
Framing the Ocean: The windows and doorways of the temple's mandapa offer perfect frames for the vast Bay of Bengal;
Next to the Lighthouse: Capture the unique juxtaposition of the ancient temple ruins right next to the modern lighthouse tow...Framing the Ocean: The windows and doorways of the temple's mandapa offer perfect frames for the vast Bay of Bengal;
Next to the Lighthouse: Capture the unique juxtaposition of the ancient temple ruins right next to the modern lighthouse tower;
The Temple's Structure: Take a close-up shot of the weathered grey granite blocks, highlighting the texture and detail of the Rajasimha style masonry.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Climb and Explore: Ascend the steps to the top of the hill, visiting the temple en route to the Lighthouse;
Study the Stones: Examine the precision of the cut granite blocks used in its construction, a contrast to the monolithic carvings nearby;
Photography: Use the temple's structure to frame the surrounding landscape and the ocean view;
Look Down at the Cave: Stand near the temple edge and look down to get a bird's-eye view of the rock-cut Mahishasuramardini Cave below;
Imagine the Beacon: Reflect on the temple's use as a lighthouse and the mix of sacred and secular history. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Famous for Dramatic Location: Its commanding position on the hilltop offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and the town, making it a natural focal point for the monument complex;
Architectural Transition: It represents the completion of...Famous for Dramatic Location: Its commanding position on the hilltop offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and the town, making it a natural focal point for the monument complex;
Architectural Transition: It represents the completion of the Pallava's shift from excavating caves (like the one below it) to constructing freestanding stone temples;
Lighthouse Precursor: It is historically famous for having served as a colonial-era light beacon for ships, connecting ancient religious architecture with modern maritime needs. -
Architecture:
Structural Temple Style: It is a key example of the late Pallava structural style (built with cut and joined stones);
Dimension: It has a square plan (approx. 6x6 meters) and once had a two-tiered superstructure;
Read MoreStructural Temple Style: It is a key example of the late Pallava structural style (built with cut and joined stones);
Dimension: It has a square plan (approx. 6x6 meters) and once had a two-tiered superstructure;
Historic Function: Before the current lighthouse was built in 1900, this temple's roof was adapted by the British in 1887 to house a simple wick lamp and optic, giving it the local nickname of "Old Lighthouse";
Architectural Link: Its structure, including the Somaskanda panel on the back wall and the use of granite blocks, strongly links it to the Shore Temple and other Rajasimha-era temples.How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Chennai International Airport (MAA), then travel by taxi/bus to Mahabalipuram; the temple is on the central monument hill;
By Train: Nearest major station is Chengalpattu (CGL), followed by local bus/auto-rickshaw;Near Tourist Places:
1. Mamallapuram Lighthouse (0. 01 KMS) 2. Mahishasuramardini Cave (0. 05 KMS) 3. Krishna's Butterball (0. 2 KMS) 4. Arjuna's Penance (0. 4 KMS) 5. Ganesha Ratha (0. 5 KMS) 6. Shore Temple (1. 5 KMS) 7. Five Rathas (1. 5 KMS) 8. India Seashell Museum (2. 5 KMS) 9. Tiger Cave (5 KMS) 10. Alamparai Fort (50 KMS)Tourism Tips
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Health & safety: Be careful on the steep, sometimes uneven steps leading up the hill;
Packing: Carry an extra layer if visiting early morning, as the sea breeze on the hilltop can be strong;
Accommodation: T...
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