Pancha Rathas, Hindu temple complex in Mahabalipuram, India.
The Pancha Rathas consist of five monolithic temples carved from single blocks of granite, each displaying different architectural styles and dimensions.
These structures, built during the Pallava dynasty in the 7th century, demonstrate the evolution from rock-cut cave temples to free-standing structural monuments.
Each ratha bears the name of characters from the Mahabharata epic: Dharmaraja, Bhima, Arjuna, Draupadi, and Nakula-Sahadeva, reflecting Hindu mythology.
Visitors can access the temple complex daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with guided tours available in multiple languages at the entrance.
The temples were never completed or consecrated, remaining as architectural models that influenced the development of South Indian temple design.
Location: Tirukalukundram
Inception: 668
Part of: Group of monuments at Mahabalipuram
GPS coordinates: 12.60880,80.18958
Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:23
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