This is one of the oldest temples in south India standing on the edge of the sea. It have been built by Pallava rulers in the 7th AD. Caves,Krishnamandapam, and Krishnas butter ball are the important witness of the sculptural talents of pallava rulers.
The shore temples were built in the 7th century, during the reign of Rajasimha, and depict the final phase of Pallava art. These beautiful temples, ravaged by wind and sea, were given the World Heritage listing, a few years ago. The two spires of the temples, contain a shrine for Lord Vishnu and for Lord Shiva.