Raya Gopura, Mahabalipuram

Wander through the remains of Raya Gopura, an ancient , unfinished temple entrance, and admire its intricate carvings and sculptures that survived the test of time. Largely overlooked by tourists, the hilltop location serves as a good vantage point offering uninterrupted views of the coastline and the nearby lighthouse. The monument was erected by the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century, but suffered a Muslim invasion in the 14th century and has been laying in ruins ever since. Look for the statue of Lord Narasimha--part lion and part man avatar of Vishnu--on one of the granite pillars. With our international travel planner, Mahabalipuram attractions like Raya Gopura can be center stage of your vacation plans, and you can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away.