Major Tourist Attractions in Mahabalipuram
Arjuna's Penance
Arjuna's Penance, perhaps the world's largest bas-relief, is the universe itself in stone, throbbing with a vastness of conception. Legend has it that King Bhagiratha had to bring down to earth the celestial Ganga to sanctify and redeem the cursed souls of his ancestors. But the river in its torrential spree would deluge the earth, and so he had to undergo a penance to propitiate Shiva who finally received the flood in his matted locks and let it flow down.

Caves
The Varaha Cave, a small rock-cut mandapam (hall), is a faceted and finished gem with two incarnations of Vishnu-Varaha (boar) and Vamana (dwarf). Particularly remarkable are four panels of the famous Pallava doorkeepers. The Dharmaraja Cave, built in the early 17th century, contains three empty shrines. The Mahisasurmardini Cave (mid-17th century) has exemplary bas-reliefs on its panels of everlasting beauty.
Rathas (Chariots)
There are eight rathas here, which are in the form of monolithic temples - designed as chariots. The fascinating fact about these rathas is that their carvings are done with such meticulous details that it appears as if the rathas are made up of wood. The fine lines visible in timber are engraved in stone to give it the required look.
Krishna Mandapam
This is the biggest among the Mandapams and is dedicated to Lord Krishna Lord Krishna is a famous legend who has been the figure of many mythological stories. The sculptures inside this Mandapam beautifully picturize the myth of Lord Krishna during his brave and energetic adulthood. He lifted the huge mount govardhara in elder to provide shelter to his people and their animals from the rain.
Covelong
About 19 km from Mahabalipuram is situated the picturesque beach resort of Covelong, a peaceful fishing village with the remnants of a fort. Facilities for windsurfing, swimming and water sports are available here. If you are in Mahabalipuram, don't forget to visit this place.
Crocodile Bank
This Crocodile Bank has been established with an aim to protected and conserve the endangered reptiles such as crocodiles, Alligators etc. Situated 14 kms from Mamallapuram, this Trust now houses more than six species of crocodiles.arrangements; 7.Located 42-km from Chennai (Madras) is a farm where several species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are bred in captivity.

Getting There
By Air: The nearest airport from Mahabalipuram is Chennai (Madras), located around 60 km away. One can get flights for almost all major destinations in India and abroad.
By Rail: The nearest railway station, Chengalpattu, is around 29 km away from Mahabalipuram.
By Road: Mahabalipuram / Mamallapuram is connected by road to Chennai, Tirukkalikundram (Pakshithirtham), Kanchipuram (65 km), and Pondicherry.

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