Which among the following is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Tamil Nadu? 

The correct answer is Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram.

Key Points

• The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, located in Tamil Nadu, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
• It comprises a collection of 7th and 8th-century rock-cut temples, cave sanctuaries, monolithic rathas (chariots), and sculpted relief panels.
• The monuments are attributed to the reign of the Pallava dynasty, known for their architectural and artistic achievements.
• Highlights include the famous Descent of the Ganges (Arjuna's Penance), a massive open-air rock relief, and the Shore Temple, which is a structural temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
• This site is a testament to Dravidian architecture and reflects the region's rich cultural and historical significance.

Additional Information

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India:
  • As of 2023, India has 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it one of the countries with the highest number of such sites.
  • These sites include cultural, natural, and mixed heritage sites recognized for their universal value.
• Pallava Dynasty:
  • The Pallavas ruled parts of Southern India from the 3rd to the 9th century CE.
  • They were known for their architectural innovations, including the introduction of rock-cut architecture and structural temples.
• Shore Temple:
  • The Shore Temple is one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India, built around the 8th century.
  • It is a UNESCO-listed site and an example of early Dravidian temple architecture.
• Descent of the Ganges (Arjuna's Penance):
  • This massive open-air rock relief is one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world.
  • It depicts scenes from Hindu mythology, including the story of the Ganges descending to Earth through the penance of King Bhagiratha.