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Chennai International Airport (MAA), Chennai
Chengalpattu Junction Railway Station (CGL)
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Mamallapuram
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Chennai International Airport (MAA), Chennai
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Mamallapuram's scattered monolithic boulders boast over one hundred intricately detailed sculptures depicting gods, birds, beasts and saints that will take you on an epic journey through Hindu mythology. One of these is Arjuna's Penance, also known as the 'Descent of the Ganges'. This 7th-century bas-relief is about 100 feet in length and 43 feet high—an extraordinary sculpture that will leave you speechless! This single sculpture tells two stories. It could be interpreted as a depiction of the intense penance Arjuna from the Mahabharata performed on the banks of a river in order to get mastery over powerful weapons. Or it could be interpreted as the penance undertaken by King Bhagiratha to bring the Ganges, which were flowing in space, down to the earth. Whatever the story, the wealth of detail in the sculpture is breathtaking. This site stands testimony to the Pallava dynasty's incredible architectural skill.
Mamallapuram's Arjuna's Penance is more than just an archaeological marvel; it stands as a living link to another time and place. The descendants of those responsible for its creation continue to play an integral role in Mamallapuram. These descendants still live in and around Mamallapuram and are still engaged in their traditional craft. You can see them converting blocks of stone into exquisite sculptures even today.
Opening time - 06:00 AM
Closing time - 06:00 PM
Leap through time and legend as you explore Mamallapuram breathtaking cave temples. At Krishna Mandapam, explore Lord Krishna's tales, artfully carved into rock walls—grand bas-relief sculptures that showcase scenes of divine protection as well as village life.
Continue your journey to the Trimurti Cave Temple, which features an awe-inspiring depiction of the Hindu Divine Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara (Lord Shiva). Finally, marvel at the Varaha Cave Temple's masterful rock-cut sculptures which feature Lord Vishnu, Goddess Gajalakshmi, Lord Trivikrama and Goddess Durga.
