Another monument attracting tourists while on a trip to Mahabalipuram is the Penance of Arjuna. Drawing its name from
Arjun, a hero of the great Hindu epic Mahabharata, the Penance of Arjuna is a wonderful open air relief statue, built in the 7th century. It is a
true specimen of bas-relief sculpture. Bas-relief is a kind of sculpture in which the figures are elevated to a few centimeters from the flat
bottom to give a three-dimensional effect. Popularly known as "the Descent of Ganga", this bas-relief has a height of 43 feet and is perched
on a rock. There is a legend that is related to it. It is a very nice structure.
Mahabalipuram tour remains incomplete without visiting Panch Rathas. Pancha Rathas, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are incredible rock temples, built in the 7th century by Narsimha, a Pallava ruler. Named after the five Pandavas, Panch Rathas are perfect examples of rock-cut style of architecture. The five Rathas are Dharmarâja Ratha, Bhima Ratha, Arjun Ratha, Draupadi Ratha and Nakul Sahadev Ratha.
Among other tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram are Krishna Cave Temple,
Olakkanneswara Temple, Krishna’s Butter Ball, Varaha Cave Temple,
Mahishasurmardini Cave, Ganesh Ratha Temple, Mahabalipuram beach, Crocodile Park, India Seashell Museum,
Mamallapuram Lighthouse, Mamallapuram Dance Festival etc. While on Mahabalipuram tour, depending upon the available time and chosen itinerary, many of these attractions can be explored as part of sightseeing. Marvelous Mahabalipuram Dance Festival, a cultural show, takes place at Arjuna's Penance in the month of January and can be enjoyed. Thus, Mahabalipuram travel packages offer a tourist to visit exceptional monuments and soak in enchanting ambience on sea beach.