If South India is known for its cultural heritage, this heritage is represented by splendid rock-cut temples and other pilgrimage centres. You can imagine the importance of temples in south India society with the fact that many of the towns are referred as temple towns. Some of the major temples in South India include Rameshwaram Temple, Tirupati Tirumala Temple, Badami Cave Temple, Balaji Temple, Jagannath Temple, Meenakshi Temple, Thousand Pillar Temple and Lepakshi Temple. These minutely carved and hugely built temples are regarded very auspicious amongst devout Hindus.

Temple architecture in India is broadly divided into northern and southern styles. These styles are differentiated on the basis of form and shape of Shikhara and distinctness of its decoration. Shikharas in South Indian temples are believed to be made of specific horizontal levels, forming a pyramid size structure. Temple architecture in South India developed in Dravida Desam or ancient South India. It has Vimana and Gopurams as its unique features. Vimana means a tall pyramidal tower which consists of numerous storeys, progressively smaller to lower one. The temples sits on a square base. Gopuram has two storeys, each one separated by a horizontal molding. Main and other smaller shrines, along with the tank, is enveloped by a outer wall or Prakara. These temples, built by Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, Vijayanagar rulers, Nayaks and other rulers are really worth visiting.