Arjuna’s Penance Mahabalipuram

Introduction

One of the most important tourist attractions of Tamil Nadu, Arjuna’s Penance Mahabalipuram; a beautifully sculptured rock is one of the largest bas relief in the world, drawing thousands of tourists to Tamil Nadu each year. The structure is located in the city of Mahabalipuram which is at a distance of 58 kms from the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai. Named after Arjuna, one of heroes of the famous Indian epic, the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s Penance Mahabalipuram has a number of myths associated with it. An illustration on the monument itself tells the story of how Bhagiratha brought the river Ganga to earth by saying special prayers to Lord Shiva. The geographical position of the monument as well as its sculpture and architecture form one of the most important attractions of Mahabalipuram which is a definite must-visit while on a tour to Tamil Nadu.

How To Reach

• By Air
  
  The nearest airport to Arjuna’s Penance Mahabalipuram is at Chennai which has both international as well as domestic terminuses.
  
  
• By Rail
  
  The nearest railway stations to the city of Mahabalipuram are Chengalpattu around 29kms away and Chennai which is around 58kms away.
  
  
• By Road
  
  A number of buses travel to Mahabalipuram everyday from cities like Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai.