Varaha Cave Temple
India
The Varaha cave is carved out of huge piece of granite and dates back to the 7th century. This temple took several decades to be completed.
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Varaha Cave Temple
Welcome to the Varaha Cave Temple, one of the most refined examples of Pallava rock-cut architecture. Unlike the rathas which are carved from the outside in, this is a true 'cave temple,' hollowed deep into the heart of a granite…
Listen in the app2The Varaha Panel — The Rescue of Mother Earth
The primary panel, after which the cave is named, depicts the Varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu. According to the legend, the demon Hiranyaksha had dragged Mother Earth, Bhu Devi, into the depths of the cosmic ocean. …
Listen in the app3The Gajalakshmi Panel — The Bath of the Goddess
On the opposite wall, we find a beautiful depiction of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and good fortune. She is shown seated on a lotus throne in the middle of a sacred pond. …
Listen in the app4The Trivikrama Panel — The Three Steps that Conquered the Universe
This panel depicts one of the most dramatic stories in Hindu mythology: the Vamana or Trivikrama avatar of Vishnu. The story tells of the demon king Mahabali, who had become so powerful he threatened the gods. …
Listen in the app5The Durga Panel — The Warrior Queen
The fourth major relief depicts the Goddess Durga, the slayer of the buffalo demon Mahishasura. In this panel, she is shown standing gracefully under a royal umbrella, surrounded by her attendants and various forest animals like…
Listen in the app6The Pillars and the Mandapa — The Architecture of the Hill
Before we leave the cave, take a moment to look at the architectural elements that frame these masterpieces. The front of the cave is defined by a series of pillars, each featuring a seated lion at its base. …
Listen in the app7Inscriptions and Legacy — The Voice of the King
Finally, as we exit the cave, notice the inscriptions carved near the entrance. These are written in ancient Pallava Grantha script and Sanskrit. …
Listen in the app8Closing
As you leave the Varaha Cave Temple and feel the warmth of the sun again, take a moment to reflect on the journey you've just taken into the heart of the rock. You have seen how the ancient Pallavas used the most challenging…
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What is Varaha Cave Temple?
Varaha Cave Temple is a place in India with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | India |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage |
| Story sections | 8 |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 12.9660, 80.2495 |
| Last updated |