An ancient seaport, on the shores of Bay of Bengal, built by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I, in the 7th century AD, Maamallapuram is a treasure trove of South Indian sculptural and architectural heritage.

It is called Maamallapuram in tribute to its royal patron Narasimhavarman I, who was a famed wrestler ('Maa malla' means 'great wrestler. And 'puram' means place).

Among the must-see works is Arjuna's penance - considered the largest sculptural panel in bas-relief in the world. Equally magnificent is the series of five monoliths, called the Pancha Paandava Rathas (five chariots named after the five Paandava brothers). Also not-to-be-missed are the Varaaha mandapa, the Krishna mandapa and the Mahishasuramardhini cave.

Originally Seven Pagodas were supposed to have existed on the shore. Six of them were apparently sunken and claimed by the sea. The only visible Shore temple is a stunning two-spired shrine that houses both Vishnu and Shiva dieties.

Time and erosion have left their mark on these marvels in rock. But the excellence of the workmanship remains a silent testimony to the enduring nature of all that is great and beautiful in art.

Open all days.

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