The majesty of the temple

Situated within the historic town of Mamallapuram, the Krishna Cave Temple stands as a magnificent testament to ancient Indian craftsmanship. It is one of the largest rock-cut cave temples in the region. This remarkable site is a must-visit for tourists seeking a glimpse into the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu. Dating back to the 7th century, this sacred shrine is dedicated to Lord Krishna, an avatar of Lord Vishnu.

This remarkable temple is a proud member of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step inside and be captivated by the intricate reliefs that adorn its walls, with highlights including an exquisite depiction of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill.

According to the story, Krishna once mischievously convinced all the residents of Brindavan village to stop celebrating a festival dedicated to Indra. This made Indra furious and as a result, he unleashed a torrential downpour on Brindavan, creating complete havoc. The desperate villagers turned to Krishna for help. And Krishna, with a flick of his wrist, hoisted the Govardhan hill near the village up into the air, creating a giant umbrella for the whole village - the people, their cattle and livestock too.

Timeless tales carved in stone

Step into the enchanting world of ancient Indian mythology at the Krishna Cave Temple in Mamallapuram. The temple complex boasts an enormous bas relief that vividly narrates the tale of Lord Krishna's heroic act of protecting the Govardhan village from Lord Indra's wrath by holding the entire mountain on his finger for nearly a week. As you explore this architectural marvel from the Pallava era, you'll be captivated by its intricate carvings that not only depict divine stories but also offer glimpses into everyday life, including scenes of shepherds, farmers, and shepherdesses, going about their everyday life. All this work was done under the patronage of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I, between the 7th and 8th centuries CE.