This is Part 8 of Wonders of India, our series on India's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Start from Part 1: Taj Mahal or read the previous part, Part 7: Konark Sun Temple.
The Chola dynasty ruled much of South India and sent naval expeditions as far as Southeast Asia. Their greatest legacy is a trio of temples in Tamil Nadu, listed together by UNESCO as the Great Living Chola Temples, "living" because they are still active places of worship.
At a glance
- Location: Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram (near Kumbakonam), Tamil Nadu
- Built: 11th-12th centuries CE
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: since 1987 (Thanjavur), extended in 2004
1. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur
Built by Rajaraja Chola I and completed in about 1010 CE, the "Big Temple" is dedicated to Shiva. Its pyramidal tower (vimana) rises about 66 metres and is crowned by a massive stone dome. The courtyard holds one of India's largest monolithic Nandi bulls, and the inner corridors preserve Chola-era frescoes. The temple celebrated its 1,000th anniversary in 2010.
2. Gangaikondacholapuram
Rajaraja's son Rajendra Chola I founded a new capital to celebrate his victorious expedition to the Ganges, taking the title "Gangaikonda Chola" ("the Chola who took the Ganga"). His temple, completed around 1035 CE, has a graceful, slightly concave tower and fine sculptures.
3. Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram
Built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century, this smaller temple is a jewel of detailed carving. Its front hall is designed as a chariot with stone wheels, and its famous "musical steps" are said to produce different notes when tapped.
Visiting the Chola temples
- Entry: free, as these are working temples.
- Timings: typically early morning to around noon, and late afternoon to evening; the sanctums close in the middle of the day.
- Getting there: Thanjavur is well connected by rail and road; Tiruchirappalli is the nearest major airport. Darasuram is 4 km from Kumbakonam, and Gangaikondacholapuram about 70 km from Thanjavur.
Tips
- Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple at sunset, when the granite glows gold.
- Dress modestly and remove footwear; the granite courtyards get very hot at midday.
- Kumbakonam makes a good base for Darasuram and other temples.
Did you know?
The Thanjavur temple's walls carry inscriptions listing dancers, musicians and staff employed by the temple, giving a rare glimpse of life a thousand years ago. Plan your trip with our Tamil Nadu travel guide.
Next in Wonders of India: the monuments of Mahabalipuram.
