KAILASANATHA TEMPLE

This temple was build under the region of the Pallava ruler Pajasimha in the early 8th century. The temple is almost entirely constructed of sandstone and it is integrated into an coherent complex. The sanctuary stands within a rectangular enclosure lined with small shrines. Gateway are positioned on three sides, one on the east side is enlarged. The outer walls have projecting shrines at the corners and in the middle of each side. The walls are raised on a moulded basement that is relieved by friezes of ganas and foilage. The shrines are farmed by pilasters with rearing yalis at the bases. Above rise the ascending stories of the pyramidical structure. These repeat the wall, but in a smaller scale. The capping roof form is hemispherical. A large variety of Shiva images covers the outer walls.