Mamallapuram was the first beach we saw. It was also our first taste of the heat of the south! Even though though the sand was a gorgeous white, the heat drove me into shacks along the beach to watch others sweat in the sun whilst enjoying food and drink in the shade! The beach is also an working beach so it was fun to watch the fisherman haul in their catches and repair their nets.

The village is listed as a World Heritage site and is famous for it's ancient rock carvings. The carvings date between AD 630 and AD 728 and have lasted remarkably well. This was my favourite part of the village. At the base of a green hill is a detailed relief carving depicting intricate details of every day life. Climbing up from the hill there are various more carvings and a fabulous temple. The best thing was to lie on the grass with a friend in between the carvings, watching the sun go down. Very idyllic.

Mamallapuram also introduced us to fresh seafood at bargain prices. So tasty and wide choice. The prawns were to die for.

Once again we did not have long before we had to move on. Next stop Madurai.