Monuments at Mahabs closed for public on February 1 in Chennai – Times of India

CHENNAI: Around 100 foreign delegates coming to Chennai for G20 education working group meeting will visit the Pallava-era monuments in Mamallapuram on February 1. In view of their visit, these monuments will remain closed for all visitors on that day.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has made special arrangements including illuminating the structures including Shore Temple, Arjuna’s penance and five rathas with night lighting and installing QR codes with historical details of the monuments. The pathways and gardens near the monuments were upgraded to make them attractive to foreign delegates.
“The ticket counters and online tickets will remain closed for all tourists on February 1. The monuments will display G20 logos and cultural events will be held at the Shore Temple,” said M Kalimuthu, superintending archaeologist, ASI, Chennai Circle.
State tourism department has also arranged for guides and experts to explain about the Pallava-era structures.
The town is gearing up to host high-profile guests with roads being spruced up and roadside shops and encroachments being removed.
“No private vehicles will be allowed inside the town on February 1,” said Valarmathi Yasvanthrao, president of Mamallapuram town panchayat.
There more than 30 vehicles that are expected to carry the guests. The local body has also identified additional parking space to park these vehicles near the monument.