Tamil Nadu is a land of historical monuments and it is one of the main reasons why it attracts many domestic and International tourists. Chennai, the capital city of the state is gateway to South India and it is the only city in India which still maintain its traditional appeal. There are many architecturally marvelous spots and ancient temples around this city. Here, we will see some group of monuments that are near to Chennai which are recognized as World Heritage site by UNSECO.

1. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram

The Group of monuments found in Mahabalipuram is built by Pallava kings around 580 to 630AD. These monuments are monoliths, built using single rocks in the form of Chariots or Rathas, Caves, Temples and Bas-reliefs carved in hills. The group of monuments found in Mahabalipuram are,

1. Five Rathas

The Five Rathas are group of five small temples in the form of Rathas or Chariots carved in single rock.

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2. Shore Temple

This magnificent monument seen today is the only lone survivor out of seven temples which was washed away by the sea over the years.

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3. Hill side caves and Watch towers

This is one of the biggest monument in Mahabalipuram where there are number of caves, sculptures are found across a big campus in hill area. The main attractions of this campus are Arjuna Penance, watch tower and the Light house.

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4. Tiger cave

This is the smallest of all monuments in Mahabalipuram where you can find Tiger face are sculpted around the cave opening.

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2. Great Living Chola Temples

The Great Living Chola Temples are a group of monuments built by Chola Kings that are close to each other. These temples stands as a testimony to the great Chola Kingdom and Dravidian Architecture.

There are primarily 3 group of monuments which are recognized by UNSECO as world heritage sites.  They are,

1. Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur

The Brihadeeswarar Temple is dedicated to Load Shiva and it is constructed in 1010 AD by Raja Raja Chola I. This temple is also called by names Periya Kovil, Peruvudaiyar Kovil, Brihadeshwara Temple, RajaRajeswara Temple and Rajarajeswaram. This is a very famous temple in whole India due to its architectural excellence.

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2. Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple at Ariyalur District

Gangaikonda Cholapuram is the capital city of Chola king Rajendra Chola I. The Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple is dedicated to Load Shiva and it is also an architecturally brilliant temple like Brihadeeswara temple. This temple is best known for the main temple tower shadow will never fall on the grounds throughout the year.

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3. Airavateswara temple at Darasuram/Dharasuram near Kumbakonam

Darasuram, a small town located about 3 kilometers away from Kumbakonam houses Airavateswara temple. This temple was constructed by King Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century AD. The main temple tower is about 85 foot high and the front mandapam is constructed to look like a Chariot pulled by horses. The number of architecturally marvellous stone carvings and statues found around the temple complex will leave the visitors spell bound.

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