Marco Polo sailed past this coast in the 13th century and recorded a city of seven pagodas rising above the sea. Only one still stands; the rest lie submerged offshore.
The Pallava kings carved an entire world from these boulders: five chariots each cut from a single rock, a colossal bas relief where a sly cat poses as a holy man before gathering mice, a giant boulder balanced on a slope for thirteen centuries that a British governor failed to move with elephants, and the Shore Temple facing the Bay of Bengal.
Your cultural guide brings every stone to life. Private car, expert guide, entry fees and lunch included.
Responsible tourism add ons at no extra cost: meet the indigenous Irula community, famed for their herbal wisdom and snake lore, or watch young artisans learn ancient stone carving at a sculpting college. Mention your choice when booking (adds 90 mins).
Recognised by the Department of Tourism; winner of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award and Tripadvisor Travellers Choice.