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Mallachandiram: A Graveyard Buried in History
Mallachandiram has burial sites dating back to the Megalithic period. There are numerous paintings that serve to document prehistoric life.
The Archeological Survey of India maintains a protected historical site in Mallachandiram, Krishnagiri. It's neither a palace nor a fort but a 2000-year-old burial site going back to the Megalithic Period.
The site has a large collection of dolmens: primitive tombs built over a burial mound. Typically, it has a large capstone or a flat horizontal rock supported by large vertical stone slabs. There are about 200 dolmens at Mallachandiram, built in four styles. Archaeologists have also found paintings of bows and arrows, human figures, animals and other symbols on the inner walls of the stone structures.
In some cases, there is a large dolmen in the centre surrounded by smaller ones – like a king surrounded by his men. Unfortunately the villagers, unaware of the historical significance of these structures, have damaged some them.
There are no shops in the area, so it is best to carry water and food. Cars have to be parked at Beerapalli from where a trail leads up to the site. While in Krishnagiri, one can also visit the Krishnagiri Fort, Rayakottai, the KRP Dam and the Krishnagiri Shaktipeeth. While all these places are of historic significance, history buffs like to make this trip a standalone one.
The road to Mallachandiram goes back a long way in time; it is best to tread it slowly.
Good to Know
Location: 75 km from the Sterling resort
Timing: 9amto 4pm (Recommended)
Take care to: Travel light; Don't reach out to touch artwork; Follow photography/mobile phone instructions; Keep kids safe (and quiet).
Other Attractions
Swamimalai - Panoramic View of a Hillside
3hrsSwamimalai Hill is the highest viewing point in Yelagiri. A trek to the top leaves one breathless, by the beauty that unfolds in a panoramic view.
Nature Park And Punganoor Lake: Recipes For A Lazy Afternoon
3hrsYelagiri Nature Park consists of a nursery, a rock garden and an aquarium. It also has lovely picnic spots. Across the road is the Punganoor lake with serene boat rides and is a great spot for bird watching and photography.