Panchapandava Cave Temple, Ancient rock temple in Kanchipuram district, India.
Panchapandava Cave Temple is a rock-cut shrine with a chamber at the back and six columns featuring lion designs throughout its structure. The granite construction is decorated with carved details, including triple-lion brackets that face multiple directions.
The temple dates to the late 7th century and was built during the Pallava dynasty under rulers Narasimhavarman I and II. This era was known for advances in rock-cut architecture and religious craftsmanship.
The temple is dedicated to Hindu worship and displays carvings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata epic on its walls. These stone sculptures tell stories about the five Pandavas and other divine figures that hold religious meaning for pilgrims visiting the site.
The site is reachable by bus and auto-rickshaw from nearby towns, making access straightforward for most travelers. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the rock structure has uneven surfaces that require careful navigation.
An octagonal chamber in the back section reveals how craftsmen of that era shaped geometric forms from solid rock. This uncommon design distinguishes the site from other cave temples found across the region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
