Chola Temples

Tamil Nadu Cities - Chennai - Madurai

Tamil Nadu Attractions - Monuments at Mahabalipuram

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Location - Tamil Nadu

Best Time To Visit - November to January

The majestic and magnificent Chola temples were built during the reign of Chola dynasty in the south India. This period, when the Chola Dynasty was at the helm of affairs, is described as the golden age of the Tamil culture. The temples of the Chola dynasty are an outstanding example of architecture and a true representative of the Chola ideology.

The Brihadisvara Temple
The Brihadisvara temple, located at Tanjavur, was constructed by the great ruler Rajaraja Chola. It was built in the 16th century and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. It is amongst the biggest Chola temples with its 13 storeyed Vimanam towering upto 216 feet. The various temples of the Chola dynasty are perfect examples of superb Dravidian architecture. The Vimana of the temple is the tallest in the world. Apart from the Brihadisvara temple, Gangaikonda Choleswarar Temple and Airavateeawarar temple are fine examples of great artistry of Chola empire. These other two temples belong to the 11th and 12th centuries. These temples stand testimony to the architectural, sculptural, painting and bronze casting advancements and achievements during the time of Cholas.

Gangaikonda Choleswarar Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Gangaikonda Choleswarar Temple was built by King Rajendra Chola to commemorate his conquest in the North. The temple bears a resemblance to the Brihadeeswarar shrine of Thanjavur. The Lingam here is more than four metres in height. The sculptures of this temple have been laid finely. The annual Annabhishekam around November attracts a number of devotees. Water from the holy river, Ganga, is offered to the Lord daily in the form of Dhaara.

Airavatesvara Temple at Darsuram
The Airavatesvara Temple at Darsuram was built by Rajaraja Chola II. It features a 24m Vimana and a stone image of Siva.

All these three temples are the living example of the brilliant art and architecture of the Chola dynasty. The trip to south India is incomplete without paying a visit to the temples.