Kodikkal / Kotikal Cave Mandapam, Mahabalipuram - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 500 m from Mahabalipuram Bus Stand, the Kotikal or Kodikkal Mandapam is an ancient rock-cut temple situated in Mahabalipuram. It is one of the most prominent places to visit in Mahabalipuram.

Located to the west of the Trimurti Caves, Kotikal Cave is a rock-cut cave temple oriented towards the west. Its architectural style is straightforward and reminiscent of the early cave temples from the era of Mahendravarman I. This temple is included in the 32 Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, which have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1984.

Kotikal features a basic early excavation characterized by two pilasters on its front. The structure comprises a sanctum and a mukha mandapa. The front of the sanctum is adorned with mouldings that resemble those found in free-standing temples. On either side of the sanctum door stand female dvarapalas. One of these warrior women wields a sword in her right hand and a shield in her left, while the other, posed in tribhanga, holds the lower part of a bow with her raised foot and grips the upper part with her hand. Both figures are depicted wearing earrings that dangle nearly to their shoulders. These female guardians imply that the deity enshrined in the sanctum was likely Durga, the Hindu goddess of war.

Inside the square sanctum, one can find a moonstone, an adhisthana (base), a partial wall, and a kudu (gavaksha). Currently, the sanctum is devoid of any idol. An inscription in the Grantha script on one of the pillars reads 'Sri Vamankusa.' Since there is no record of a king or Pallava official by that name, it is likely that this inscription indicates the temple was commissioned by a patron from the early Mahendra period.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free