Explore Chola dynasty’s heritage and history at Gangaikonda Cholapuram

The great temple of Brihadisvara Temple at this place is next only to the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur in its monumental nature and surpasses it in sculptural quality. It has been recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

This temple is a living history of the Cholas in stone from the period of Rajendra I. It’s a known fact that Chola rulers were patrons of the arts and architecture. Many sculptures brought from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Bengal as war trophies are also preserved in the temple and in the nearby villages. Chandesura Anugraha Murthy and Sarasvathy are the most beautiful sculptures of the temple.

They built the temple of Gangaikondacholisvara. The temple has sculptures of exceptional quality. The bronzes of Bhogasakti and Subrahmanya are masterpieces of Chola metal icons. The Saurapitha (solar altar), the lotus altar with eight deities, is considered auspicious.

History and architecture enthusiasts from across the country and globe visit the temple to see the architectural marvel. Though it was built to reflect the Big Temple in Thanjavur, this temple has its own unique style and the sanctum houses a comparatively larger idol of Lord Shiva in the form of lingam. One more interesting location inside the temple is where there is a lion and when you step down into its mouth, you will be led to a well where the queens and princess used to take bath. When you see from outside, it is completely hidden from your eyes.

The nearest railway station to this historic site is at Kumbakonam at a distance of 34 km. State-run buses and prepaid taxis are available to reach Gangaikonda Cholapuram from the nearby cities like Kumbakonam, Chidambaram, Mayiladuthurai, Jayankondam and Ariyalur.