Wonders Archives | Page 73 of 86

Udayagiri Caves, Khandagiri Caves

27 – 35 caves, carved around the 1st century BC. Historically important, contain valuable inscriptions and exquisite artwork.

Five rock-cut Buddhist cave temples. According to local legends caves have been created by Pandavas – heroes of Hindu epic Mahabharata.

The southernmost rock-cut Pallava Hindu cave temple, located in Trichy Rockfort and created in the early 7th century AD.

A rock-cut Hindu cave temple in Mahabalipuram. This unusual temple has five sanctuaries and two styles of columns.

A rock-cut Hindu cave temple in Mahabalipuram. It contains two beautiful sculpted panels with religious motives.

A rock-cut Hindu cave temple in Mahabalipuram, initially devoted to Shiva. Most likely built in AD 640- 674.

The largest Hindu cave temple in Mahabalipuram, adorned with wonderful depictions of rural life. Created around the late 7th century.

The northernmost rock-cut Hindu temple in Mahabalipuram. Most likely created in the late 7th century.

A rock-cut monument from the 7th century AD, possibly a religious auditorium. Highly unusual architectonic design with 11 yali heads.

Two legendary Buddhist rock-cut cave temples. One cave is chaitya – prayer hall, another – vihara – monastery, created sometime around 60 BC.