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Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram

India
Date of Inscription: 1984
Criteria: (i)(ii)(iii)(vi)
Tamil Nadu State, Chingleput District
N12 37 00 E80 11 30
Ref: 249

Brief Description

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.