| The temples in South India display a distinct | | | | richest temple in the world. The cupola of the main |
| architectural style unique to the region. The states of | | | | shrine is gold plated and the interiors of the temple also |
| Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh | | | | display the wealth of this temple. Tirupati, the deity |
| are dotted with temples constructed during the reign of | | | | worshiped in the temple is known to possess the |
| the Pallavas, the Cholas, the Vijayanagar rulers and | | | | characteristics of both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. |
| the Pandyas. Each structure reflects the artistic | | | | The Badami Cave Temple in Karnataka is famous for |
| brilliance achieved during the rule of these dynasties. | | | | the sandstone caves cut out from the hills. The |
| Most of the temples are build according to the Dravida | | | | numerous caves house temples dedicated to Lord |
| style of architecture. The Prakara or compound wall | | | | Shiva and Lord Vishnu as well as Jain caves. The |
| encircles the temple complexes. Built on a square | | | | natural surroundings enhance the aesthetic appeal of |
| base, the temples of South India have towering | | | | these cave temples at Badami built during the rule of |
| pyramid shaped structure on top. This feature, known | | | | the Chalukyas. |
| as Vimana, is divided into successive levels. A | | | | Comprising the famous Hoyasaleswara Temple, the |
| horizontal casting separates the two levels of the | | | | complex at Halabid and Belur in Karnataka showcase |
| Gopuram. | | | | the architectural achievement of the artists of the |
| The complex at Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram | | | | Hoysala Empire of South India. Other temples of South |
| houses the beautiful Shore Temples or Seven | | | | India include the following: |
| Pagodas. Known for their architectural excellence, the | | | | · Guruvayoor Temple |
| monumental structures and the exquisite rock carvings | | | | · Kanchipuram Temple |
| are located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. | | | | · Sabarimala Temple |
| The mathematical precision and engineering skills | | | | · Murugan Temple |
| evident in the structure of the Brahadeeswara Temple | | | | · Rameshwaram |
| at Tanjore, Tamil Nadu, amazes all. Built during the | | | | · Somnathpur Temple |
| Chola period, the temple is famous for its massive | | | | · Thousand Pillar Temple |
| cupola weighing almost 81 tonnes. | | | | · Kanyakumari |
| Constructed during the phase of 12 th to 18 th century, | | | | Displaying the unique architectural style of the particular |
| the Meenakshi Temple of Tamil Nadu comprises two | | | | region, the temples of South India are not only |
| chief shrines, various Mandapas and Gopurams. The | | | | important as religious shrines, they also showcase the |
| splendid architecture of the wonderful temple makes it | | | | peak of South Indian art and architecture as well as |
| a major tourist attraction of the region. | | | | their culture. |
| Tirupati Temple of Andhra Pradesh is famous as the | | | | |