A Vision in Stone

Poetry in stone…the very thought of the artistic and quaint town of Mahabalipuram conjures up images of intricate temple art, of inscriptions that recount many an ancient story. What is perhaps most fascinating about this ancient port town, which historically was under the reign of the Pallava rulers of South India, is that little is known about it beyond its famed sculptures. It is believed that the majority of the temples and carvings were built during the rule of Narsinha Varman I (AD 630–668) and Narsinha Varman II (AD 700-728).

Yet, there is so much more to this UNESCO World Heritage Site than just tales etched in rock. As you amble along the shores of its beautiful beaches, you cannot help but wonder at its unique beauty, a paradox between static rock and the incessant, restless sea.