'Seven Pagodas' is a popular name for which famous heritage site?

Correct Answer: Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)

Subject: history

Madurai temples
Thanjavur temples
Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)
Hampi

Explanation: Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) in Tamil Nadu is known as the 'Seven Pagodas' — a name given by early European sailors and traders who saw multiple temple towers visible from the sea. It was built by the Pallava dynasty, particularly under Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla, r. 630–668 CE) and Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha). Famous structures: Shore Temple (built by Narasimhavarman II, ~700 CE — one of India's earliest stone temples), Five Rathas (Pancharatha — monolithic rock-cut chariots named after Pandavas), Varaha Cave temple, and Arjuna's Penance (largest bas-relief in the world). It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.