An ancient port with a flourishing maritime trade, Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram is situated on the shore of the Bay of Bengal. It was the chief sea port of the Pallavas who ruled over South India from the 1st century BC to 8th century AD and is recognised as the site of some of the greatest architectural and sculptural achievements in India.
Under the reign of the Narasimha Varman, this seaport began to grow as a great artistic centre. Mamallapuram is a world heritage site, and a testimonial to early Dravidian style of architecture.