The art in the marvellous monuments with sculpted panels, caves, monolith rathas and temples lay emphasis on robust earthly beauties, imbibed with life. Mythological episodes, epic battles, demons, Gods, animals, all vividly depicted on the wall. These   sculptures   are breathtakingly real and artistic. Most of the temple and monuments were completed during the reigns

 Narasimha Varman I and Narasimha Varman II. In contrast to the grand monuments of the Cholas, the architecture of Pallavas is simple yet very lively and attractive. The Pallavas were followers of Jainism but the conversion of Mahendra Vernman to Shaivism had drastic consequences on the future of Jainism and it also explains the Shiva and Vishnu temple at Mamallapuram. The shore temple strikes a very romantic theme and is perhaps the most photographed monument in India after Taj Mahal. The temple is flood lit in the night and then its beauty comes out to fully. The pleasure of watching the monument in light with cool breeze from the sea has no comparison. Mamallapuram attracts tourists from all over the globe to its monumental splendour and sunny beaches.
 

THE CAVES

                          There are nine cave temples which are cut in the rocks in Mamallapuram. These caves are famous for their real life depiction of incidents from the Hindu Mythology. There are Bas-reliefs in the various caves. In particular the carvings in the Krishna cave appears very real. Vishnu is seen in the cosmic sleep in Mahishasuramardhini cave. In contrast to peace here, the other portrayals of Goddess Durga is fighting the buffalo headed Demon.
 

MANDAPAMS

                   This bas relief, is an extensive panel (27 metres long & 9 metres high of relief sculptures, with life size images. This carving on the rock wall is the largest Bas-relief in the world. This is pride of Mamallapuram of which the simple but rich carving appear to come alive any moment. The rock is in the shape of a whale and it faces the sea. Read more

THE FIVE RADHA

            This twin structure on the shore of Bay of Bengal is one of the oldest in South India and first line temple of Dravidian architecture. After coming under world heritage monument a huge wall has been built on one side to prevent it from further erosion. Read more

THE TIGER CAVES

                This was originally an open air theater used to organise cultural programs. The sculpture of loins and tigers on the entrance of the cave gives it the name of Tiger Caves. It is very calm and serene even though it is set along the sea coast.
 

THE CROCODILE BANK

                  Just 14 kms from Mamallapuram is a crocodile breeding center. At this center about 5000 crocodiles of 6 different species are being reared. There is also a snake farm where anti venom is produced. This center is one of the most successful reptile breeding centers in India.
 

THIRUKKAZHUNDRAM

                    This place is famous for the ancient Shiva temple and a hill top temple. The place is a popular pilgrimage spot. The name of Thirukkazhukundram means hill of Eagle. In fact the priest of the temple feeds two kites in the afternoon it is said that these kites are on their journey from Rameshwaram to Banaras and take rest at the hill top temple. The village surrounds the foothill and from here one can see the huge Gopurams of the temple on the top. Near the village is the larger Shiva temple and a tank which is said to have curative powers. It is 17 kms from Mamallapuram.
 

SADRAS

                  This fine beach is located 16 kms from Mamallapuram. Originally this was a Dutch settlement but now it is coming majorly as a beach resort.
 

COVELONG

                   This ancient town is 19 kms from Mamallapuram. The ruined fort here narrates a story of the grandeur which this place has lived. The catholic Church and the Dargah are the places worth visiting.
 

MUTTUKKADU

                  An ideal place for water sports and an excellent picnic spot Muttukadu is 21 kms from Mamallapuram. The TTDC has made ample arrangements to attract tourists. TTDC has boat house here. The visitors can enjoy boating, canoeing & kayaking and wind surfing. The 'Dakshina Chitra of Madras Craft Foundation' here has replica of an old agricultural house of Tamil Nadu, replica of Kancheepuram weavers house and replicas of ancient houses presenting the life style of South India.
 

THIRUPORUR

                    This place is 16 kms from Mamallapuram. Devotees come to this place in the temple of Lord Muruga. This temple has several ancient inscriptions which attracts not only devotees but researchers and scholars too.
 

VEDANTHANGAL

                   This bird sanctuary, it is located 53 kms from Mamallapuram and is among the few famous bird sanctuaries in the country. The best season to visit this place is between November to February when the birds have also migrated here