Introduction

Nestled on a 100-foot-high cliff, this 7th century rock-cut temple is dedicated to the three supreme deities of the Hindu pantheon, Brahma – the creator, Vishnu – the preserver, and Shiva – the destroyer. You will come across the carvings of a Shivalingam and Lord Brahma in the first two cells, while the third cell depicts Goddess Durga trampling Mahishasura’s (the buffalo-headed demon) head. Browse the rock-cut zoo adjacent to the cave temple; it has sculptures of an elephant, a calf, a monkey and a peacock.

Take the steps at the end of the stone courtyard to the porch which sits before a simple rectangular mandapam with four large pillars. The pillars have an octagonal central section. And inside the sanctum another row of similar pillars categorizes the sanctum into three aisles that lead to the Trimurti shrines. You will see the Hindu trinity so intricately carved into the rear cave wall. The temple is located to the north of the Ganesha Ratha, Mahabalipuram.

Special Attributes

An ancient cave temple with a rock-cut zoo.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can walk up to the temple.

Enjoyed by

History Lovers, Sculpture and Architecture Lovers, and those who are religiously inclined

Exposure

You will partly be in the shade and partly in the sun. It is advisable to carry your sunshades, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October

Facilities

You can visit the other mandapams as well on the same day.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Better to explore the cave temple in the first half of the day as it is perched atop a ridge and it can get a tad difficult to make your way to the top around dusk.

Type of site

Cave Temple