Mahabalipuram

In the 8th century, the Pallava dynasty conducted a thriving maritime trade from this port city, sending emissaries to China, Southeast Asia, and Indonesia; carved stone is all that now remains of these dynamic businessmen, who ultimately ruled from the 6th to 9th centuries. The rock structures they left behind can be broken down into monolithic rock temples (rathas), cave temples, temples constructed from a conglomeration of materials, and bas-relief sculptures carved on large rocks.

It's a wonderful place to visit, especially between December and February, when the heat is under control. You can divide your time between exploring magnificent ancient temples and relaxing at a beach resort. In addition to the government shops, independent shops sell granite images and carvings reminiscent of the temples; many of these are remarkably well done. The sights are open all day, but the best times to visit are early morning and late afternoon.