Vacations-Away

Mamallapuram Temples  Temples of Chennai       

Further south from Chennai and from Fisherman's Cove is this very sacred area with 5 distinct forms of temples, including Chinese as well as Indian influence.  Many of the temples are a work in progress dating from 100AD, then some abruptly halted, but preserved and revered by the population.  The area is graced by layers of stone used to form the temples.   Today  the area is used to cut stone figures and statues that are sold around the world.  Every carving has a tale, historical and religious meaning.  My guide told many stories as we passed by each site; I recorded his tales on a video camera.

 Temple by the Sea that was washed by the Tsunami  

               3 Temples                                                          Burial Yard                                                Tsunami Washed   

                                             Lion - Chinese Influence                                                    Extraordinary Elephant Fresco

Different Carved Figures - Everyone with a story

                    Half Man/ Half Woman                                          My Guide                                                 Method of Cutting Rock

                         Several Temple Styles                                                         Holding the Umbrella Above     

     Ancient Cart - 1000 AD                            New Stone Cut                                       Silk Cloth For Sale