Brihadeeswarar Temple
South India Region
Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as Rajarajesvaram and locally as Thanjai Periya Kovil, is a magnificent Shaivite Hindu temple located on the south bank of the Cauvery river in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. Constructed between 1003 and 1010 CE by the Chola emperor Rajaraja I, it exemplifies Tamil architecture and is one of the largest Hindu temples in India. The temple complex features a towering granite vimana, one of the tallest in South India, and houses one of the largest Shiva lingas in the country. Its massive colonnaded prakara surrounds the main shrine, which includes numerous sculptures and frescoes predominantly related to Shaivism, but also depicting Vaishnavism and Shaktism. The temple complex includes shrines dedicated to various deities such as Nandi, Parvati, Murugan, Ganesha, and others. It is famed for its exquisite sculptures and the commissioning of the brass Nataraja statue representing Shiva as the lord of dance. Over the centuries, the temple underwent additions and renovations, including fortified walls added after the 16th century. Despite historical damages, it remains a vibrant religious site and a major tourist attraction in Tamil Nadu, representing the zenith of Chola architectural achievement and cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during the cooler months from October to March for a comfortable experience. It is recommended to book tickets or guided tours in advance, especially during festivals when the temple sees large crowds. Modest dress is required when entering the temple complex. The temple is accessible via Tiruchirappalli International Airport, about 55 kilometers away, and well connected by rail and road. Discounts may be available for students and senior citizens at official ticket counters. Early morning visits offer a serene experience and the chance to witness traditional rituals.
Interesting facts
- •The temple's vimana tower is one of the tallest of its kind in South India, built entirely from granite.
- •Brihadeeswarar Temple houses one of the largest Shiva lingas in India.
- •The temple commissioned the famous brass Nataraja statue, symbolizing Shiva as the lord of dance, in the 11th century.
- •It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Great Living Chola Temples' along with two other nearby temples.
- •The temple complex was originally surrounded by a moat and fortified walls were added after the 16th century.
History
Brihadeeswarar Temple was built by the Chola emperor Rajaraja I between 1003 and 1010 CE, marking a pinnacle in Chola architectural style.
The temple was constructed using granite, featuring a massive vimana tower and extensive sculptures.
Throughout its history, the temple suffered damage due to conflicts, particularly during Muslim Sultan raids in the region, but was restored by succeeding Hindu dynasties.
Additions such as shrines for Kartikeya, Parvati, and Nandi were made during the 16th and 17th-century Nayaka period.
The Marathas of Thanjavur later maintained the temple, preserving its cultural and religious significance.
The temple is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Great Living Chola Temples."
Place Guide
Main Vimana Tower1003-1010 CE
The towering granite vimana above the sanctum sanctorum is one of the tallest in South India, exemplifying Chola architectural mastery with its massive scale and intricate detailing.
Shiva Linga Shrine1003-1010 CE
The central shrine houses one of the largest Shiva lingas in India, symbolizing Lord Shiva's presence and worshipped by devotees daily.
Colonnaded Prakara (Corridor)11th century with later additions
A vast corridor with numerous granite pillars surrounding the temple, featuring detailed sculptures and frescoes predominantly depicting Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism.
Nataraja Statue11th century
The temple is renowned for commissioning the brass Nataraja statue, representing Shiva as the cosmic dancer, a masterpiece of Chola art.
Additional Shrines16th-17th century
Shrines for deities such as Nandi, Parvati, Murugan, Ganesha, and others were added during the Nayaka period (16th-17th centuries) enhancing the temple's religious diversity.
Contact
Phone: 04362 274 476
