Great Living Chola Temples in India

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1987
Size of heritage: 22 ha
- Buffer zone: 17 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 79,133°
Latitude: 10,783°

Summary

The Great Living Chola Temples were built by kings of the Chola Empire, which stretched over all of south India and the neighbouring islands. The site includes three great 11th- and 12th-century Temples: the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram. The Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram, built by Rajendra I, was completed in 1035. Its 53-m vimana (sanctum tower) has recessed corners and a graceful upward curving movement, contrasting with the straight and severe tower at Thanjavur. The Airavatesvara temple complex, built by Rajaraja II, at Darasuram features a 24-m vimana and a stone image of Shiva. The temples testify to the brilliant achievements of the Chola in architecture, sculpture, painting and bronze casting.

Location on Map

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Great Living Chola Temples: A Testament to India's Architectural Brilliance

The Great Living Chola Temples, located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, are a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the architectural brilliance of the Chola dynasty. This site comprises three magnificent temples: Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, and Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram.

History

The Chola dynasty, one of the longest-ruling dynasties in the history of southern India, flourished between the 9th and 13th centuries. During this period, the Chola kings were great patrons of art, architecture, and literature. The construction of these temples was a testament to their devotion to Lord Shiva and their desire to leave a lasting legacy.

The Brihadeeswarar Temple, built by King Rajaraja Chola I in the 11th century, is the most iconic of the three temples. It is a marvel of Dravidian architecture, characterized by its towering vimana (temple tower) that reaches a height of 66 meters. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricate carvings, frescoes, and sculptures that depict various mythological stories.

The Airavatesvara Temple, constructed by King Rajaraja Chola II, is renowned for its exquisite stone carvings and intricate sculptures. It is named after Airavata, the divine white elephant of Lord Indra. The temple's unique architecture and intricate detailing make it a masterpiece of Chola art.

The Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, built by King Rajendra Chola I, is a testament to the Chola dynasty's military conquests. The temple was constructed to commemorate the king's victory over the Ganges region, and it served as the capital of the Chola empire for a brief period. The temple complex features a massive Nandi (sacred bull) statue and intricately carved pillars.

Current State

The Great Living Chola Temples continue to be active places of worship and pilgrimage, attracting devotees from all over the world. These temples are not only religious sites but also architectural marvels that showcase the rich cultural heritage of India.

Efforts have been made to preserve and restore these temples to their original glory. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been actively involved in the conservation and maintenance of these sites. They have implemented measures to protect the structures from natural elements and prevent further deterioration.

Visitors to the Great Living Chola Temples can marvel at the intricate carvings, towering structures, and serene surroundings. The temples are not only a visual treat but also provide a glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the Chola dynasty.

Address
Distance: 0,7 mi
2886, Srinivasampillai Road
613001 Tanjore
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Driving Around Thanjavur City, Tamil Nadu - India 2014 HD

Published: June 01, 2014
Length: 57:54 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Phenomenal Travel Videos

I was driving around the streets of Thanjavur city. A very pleasant experience as the streets are filled with temples, a variety of different people and some historic structures. This driving...

1000 Year Old Secret Drilling Technology Revealed - India

Published: May 07, 2014
Length: 36:10 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Phenomenal Travel Videos

This is the Thanjavur Brahadeeswarar temple in India which was built between 1004 and 1009 A.D. So it was built over a 1000 years ago. Found some amazing drilling technology with precision...

Brihadeshvara Temple at Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

Published: August 20, 2013
Length: 04:03 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: The Road Less Travelled in India

The Brihadeshvara Temple at Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is the high point of Chola period architecture. Completed in AD 1010 under the patronage of Rajaraja Chola, the temple saw Hindu temple ...