Heritage sites in South India that have stood the test of time

Any state of South India is a great pick for those interested in art, culture and history. The great kingdoms that once called these states their home, they all have left so many architectural gems for us to explore and admire. These architectural gems include temples and caves that have not only survived centuries but have also retained their cultural and architectural grandeur.

Here are some notable heritage sites in South India that have stood the test of time:

Back in the day, Hampi was the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. The site flourished as a hub for trade, culture and religion, and today, one can see what’s left of it and be in awe of it. Hampi is home to the famous stone chariot, Virupaksha Temple, and Vittala Temple complex. Hampi became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

The history of the Badami Caves dates back to the 6th and 7th centuries Chalukya dynasty. The rock-cut cave temples at the cave complex are some of the finest in the region. One of the things that captures everyone’s attention is the sunset scene at Badami. The view of the red sandstone cliffs and the surrounding Agastya Lake is unforgettable.

Built during the Pallava dynasty in the 7th and 8th centuries, the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram is one of the most well preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. The site has 40 monuments and of those, the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, the Descent of the Ganges, Krishna’s Butter Ball are some of the most loved ones.

This popular UNESCO World Heritage Site was commissioned by Raja Raja Chola I of the Chola kingdom in the 11th century. The temple is a part of the larger site called the Great Living Chola Temples. The most striking features of the temple are the monolithic 66-metre tall vimana (tower) and the massive Nandi (bull) statue.

Meenakshi Temple is one of the most visited temples in the state of Tamil Nadu. This 6th century temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, and is one of the most beautiful temples in India. There are several rules and regulations that need to be followed to enter the temple complex.

Pattadakal’s history dates back to the 7th and 9th centuries. Back in the day, the site, home to several temples, also served as a ceremonial site for the Chalukyan kings’ coronations. Here you will find some of the most iconic temples like the Virupaksha Temple and Mallikarjuna Temple. The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 under the title – Group of Monuments at Pattadakal.