The Arjuna’s Penance or the Descent of Ganges is one of the marvel monuments of Mahabalipuram. The creation of Pallava king Narsimha Varma-I was on board in the mid of 7th century. The magnificently raised monument is of 43 feet height, carved using two adjoining granite boulder. Arjuna’s penance is an extract of Mahabarata, of how Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, performed severe prudence in order to obtain Shiva’s weapon. The Descent of Ganges narrates the story of how Lord Shiva brings Ganges down to the Earth. However, there is no proper proof of any of these facts and continues to be a mystery.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

Recommended – October to March (pleasant weather).
Not recommended – June and September (high temperature and heavy rainfall)

HOW TO REACH: 1 km from Mahabalipuram Bus Station
WHEN TO VISIT: 6AM TO 6PM
FARE: INR 10 – Indians (free for children below 15 years)\ INR 250 – Foreigners