Mamallapuram, With Its Striking Bas-reliefs And Stone Temples, Is An Open-air Museum. India Editorial Photo

Located along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, the port city of Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu is a beautiful beach destination that is slowly becoming the center of surfing in the country. Dotted with several UNESCO World Heritage Sites courtesy of the ancient Pallava dynasty (3rd-9th century BC) who were great patrons of the arts and crafts, Mamallapuram harbors a bewildering visual delight around every corner. Its impressive cave temples, sculptures and monuments make one admire the craftsmanship of the masters of that time. With its striking bas-reliefs and rock-cut temples, Mamallapuram is practically an open-air museum. Many of the temples built from granite are associated with stories from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Once a thriving port, Mamallapuram is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. also known for its shell decorations, seafood, cafes and markets, and spectacular ocean views. While you can immerse yourself in history by visiting various historic sites, Mamallapuram's pristine beaches, fringed by lush groves under the warm sun, invite surfers. Between June and September, with perfect sea waves, expert surf lessons take place on the beaches. The city is also an important stopover for visitors arriving from Chennai and Puducherry.