Arjuna’s Penance

One of the greatest bas-reliefs the world has ever seen, Arjuna’s Penance is a miraculous representation of excellent artistry. The relief, which is believed to be hundreds of years old, is carved on two gigantic boulders (of pink granite) separated by a natural cleft. It is an incredible experience to explore the beautifully carved figures of Gods, demigods, celestial creatures, humans, birds and animals like elephants and monkeys. Also called the Descent of Ganga (River Ganges), the relief portrays popular legends like penance performed by Arjuna (one of the five Pandavas) to please Lord Shiva and penance performed by King Bhagirath to bring the holy River Ganga on the earth. The relief is a part of the Group of Monuments of Mahabalipuram, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Other attractions of the group include Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Mahishamardini Cave and Thirukadalmallai Temple.

October-March