The site, which includes examples of rock gongs, was discovered first in 1892, but subsequently became lost to researchers until it was rediscovered in the early 21st century.

This site features peculiar rock formations with unusual depressions which make musical sounds when struck with boulders.

Petroglyphs belonging to different periods, from the neolithic to the modern day, can be found bruised or engraved on the black rocks all along the dyke.

This latter ritual in particular, is a unique feature of the south Indian neolithic and has resulted in the formation of large ‘ashmounds’ up to 30 feet high at various places.

The situation has improved somewhat in recent years though, with the launch of a number of new excavation and survey projects aimed at a systematic study of various aspects of this archeological entity.

Many of the motifs on the rocks are of cattle, in particular the long-horned humped-back type found in southern India (Bos indicus).

According to Dr Boivin, the masculine nature of the engravings suggest that the people who made the images were men and were probably involved in herding cattle.

They consist of peculiar depressions in the rocks, which when struck with boulders produce loud, gong-like musical tones.

Dr Nicole Boivin, of the University of Cambridge, an expert who has researched the site has expressed fears that without government interest and intervention, the rock art may be completely destroyed.