The Five Rathas, or Pancha Rathas, are a set of five monolithic rock-cut temples in Mahabalipuram, each carved from a single large piece of granite — a remarkable feat of 7th-century stone craftsmanship and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History
Built under the Pallava dynasty in the 7th century, each of the five structures is carved to resemble a chariot ("ratha") and named after characters from the Mahabharata epic — the Pandava brothers and their shared wife Draupadi — though scholars believe the names were assigned later rather than reflecting their original purpose.
What to See
Each ratha differs in size, shape, and style, showcasing a range of architectural experiments the Pallava sculptors were working through — alongside the rathas, large stone sculptures of an elephant, lion, and Nandi bull stand nearby, equally carved from single rock formations.
Entry Fees
A ticketed entry applies, often combined with the Shore Temple ticket.
Best Time to Visit
Morning, for cooler temperatures while exploring the open, largely unshaded site.
How to Reach
The Five Rathas are a short distance from the Shore Temple within Mahabalipuram town.
