Mahabalipuram or Mammallapuram was named after the Pallava ruler who set his capital here. Little did he then know that his very kingdom would one day feature in the UNESCO World Heritage map! And why not? After all, it is home to one of the greatest wonders you'd ever find - huge structures intricately carved out of single rocks! A glimpse here does bring to mind how the artist must have conceived these dreams in stone. It reaffirms ones faith when you see temples and carvings dedicated to almost the entire Hindu pantheon. This is the home of the Shore Temple, which is the lone survivor of Gods' jealousy and to the greatest bas-relief depicting the determination of ancient characters and exuding an unseen gradeur. Drive down the picturesque East Coast Road, catch splendid views of the coastline and set aside a few days to revel in Mahabalipuram's glory - it is undoubtedly worth it!