Early Dravidian Temples

Timeline

1. c. 600–630Mahabalipuram · Tamil NaduThe Pallava dynasty continued developing rock-cut caves and structural stone temples at Mahabalipuram and elsewhere; remains such as the Pancha Rathas reflect the transition from cliff-face carving to free-standing stone architecture.
2. c. 640–670Kanchipuram · Tamil NaduMore complete structural Dravidian temples appeared at Kanchipuram and other sites, with the square base, stepped vimāna tower, and mandapa layout becoming standardized as the paradigm of South Indian temple architecture.
3. c. 680–700Tamil region · Tamil NaduEarly Dravidian forms spread across South India by the late 7th century, with stone-carved decoration and deity placement conventions maturing, laying the foundation for the Chola dynasty's large-scale temple construction after the 8th century.