Descent of the Ganges is a renowned monument in Kanchipuram district. It is an open air rock-cut sculpture carved on two gigantic boulders. This monument is another part of the Group of Monuments in Mahabalipuram and narrates the visual tale of Ganga's descending from the heaven to the earth led by Bhagiratha. This sculpture was created by King Narsimhavarman of Pallava dynasty.
It Is Known For:-
1) Descent of the Ganges is known for the remarkable carvings. Many figures that are carved on these boulders are life size
2) Great skills and imagination were used for carving such appealing rock-cut sculptures as the minutest detailing has been done extremely well
3) The boulders depict the journey of the sacred River Ganga descending from the heaven. To save the Earth from the force of her waters, Lord Shiva is shown catching Ganga in his dreadlocks and dividing the waters into different streams
4) Descent of the Ganges is also known by the name of Arjuna's Penance. It depicts the hard penance done by the Pandava Prince, Arjuna, to acquire a special weapon for fighting the war of Kurukshetra
Best Time To Visit:-
Descent of the Ganges attracts numerous tourists on a large scale. Not only the domestic visitors but, the foreign nationals also arrive and admire the beauty of this monument. It can be visited throughout the year.
Reaching There:-
Descent of the Ganges is well-connected with the entire city due to a vast network of the roadways. To reach the place, one can hire the service of the local transit like the bus, taxi, or auto rickshaws.
Nearest Railway Station- Chengalpattu Railway Station
Nearest Airport- Chennai International Airport