Mahabalipuram
Arjuna's penance
This group of sanctuaries, founded by the Pallava kings, was carved out of rock along the Coromandel coast in the 7th and 8th centuries. It is known especially for its rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries), giant open-air reliefs such as the famous 'Descent of the Ganges', and the temple of Rivage, with thousands of sculptures to the glory of Shiva.
milking the cow
carved into the side of the rock
Adivaraha temple
Elephant carved from stone
Smile! tourist photo
devotions
examining the elephant
the stone carver
buying clay pots
man in the street
working in the field
