Brihadeswara Temple
– 11th Cen CE.
Gangaikonda, Cholapuram.
Brihadeswara Temple
– 11th Cen CE.
Gangaikonda, Cholapuram.
Brihadeswara Temple
– 11th Cen CE.
Gangaikonda, Cholapuram.
Brihadeswara Temple
– 11th Cen CE.
Gangaikonda, Cholapuram.
Brihadeswara Temple
– 11th Cen CE.
Gangaikonda, Cholapuram.
“Brihadisvara of Gangaikonda Cholapuram is one of the most perfect specimens of Hindu architecture”
– Percy Brown
Historian & author of Indian Architecture: Hindu and Buddhist
Bṛhadīśvara Temple, situated in Gaṅgaikoṇḍa Chōḷapuram near Jayaṅkoṇḍam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nāḍu, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Śiva. It was constructed in 1035 CE by Rājendra Chōḷa I as an integral part of his newly established capital.
This temple, belonging to the Chōḷa dynasty era, shares design similarities and a comparable name with the older Bṛhadīśvarar Temple, located approximately 70 kilometres (43 min) to the southwest in Tañjāvūr.
Chola Dynasty
848-1279 CE
Chola Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It
The Imperial Cholas: Their Kings and Achievements
The Cholas were among the most powerful dynasties in South Indian history, ruling for over four centuries.
Their reign, particularly from the 9th to the 13th century, saw remarkable achievements in administration, military conquests, temple architecture, literature, and maritime trade.
Check out the
other Chola kings
The Cholas introduced an efficient governance system with well-organized provincial administration and an advanced irrigation network.
They also contributed significantly to Tamil literature, fostering great poets like Kamban, who wrote the Tamil Ramayana.
Rajendra Chola I, son of Rajaraja Chola I, was one of the greatest kings of the Chola dynasty. His rule marked the zenith of Chola power and territorial expansion. His key achievements include:
Northern Expeditions: He led campaigns up to the Ganges River, defeating the Pala dynasty of Bengal. To commemorate this feat, he assumed the title ‘Gangaikonda Chola’ and built the new capital, Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Naval Supremacy: His fleet dominated the Bay of Bengal, leading successful conquests in Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and parts of Southeast Asia, including Srivijaya (modern-day Indonesia and Malaysia).
Rajendra in Battle, Kolar
Architectural Marvel – The Brihadishwara Temple
of Gangaikonda Cholapuram: He built this temple as a replica of the Thanjavur Brihadishwara Temple, though it features some architectural refinements such as a shorter but more intricate vimana and a massive Nandi statue. The temple’s bronze sculptures and stone carvings display exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting the height of Chola artistry.
The Cholas introduced an efficient governance system with well-organized provincial administration and an advanced irrigation network.
They also contributed significantly to Tamil literature, fostering great poets like Kamban, who wrote the Tamil Ramayana.
Copper plate of Rajendra I
about building a temple in
Srivijaya Empire
Legend has it…
The Brihadishwara Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a magnificent structure built by the Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I, derives its name from the Sanskrit words ‘Brihad’ (meaning ‘great’) and ‘Ishwara’ (meaning ‘Lord’), signifying the grandeur and supreme divinity of Lord Shiva.
According to local legends, Rajendra Chola I, upon his victorious return from the northern expeditions, wanted to create a temple grander than his father Rajaraja Chola I’s Brihadishwara Temple at Thanjavur.
Know the Historian
P.V. Jagadīśa Ayyar’s 1920 work, “South Indian Shrines,” is a pioneering study of South Indian temple architecture, with a special focus on the Bṛhadīśvara Temple at Gaṅgaikoṇḍa Chōḷapuram.
Written during a period of growing archaeological interest in India, it offers one of the earliest detailed analyses of the temple’s structure, sculptures, inscriptions, and historical significance. This foundational text remains essential for anyone seeking to understand the architectural and cultural legacy of South Indian temples.
For the Serious Reader
Nagaswamy, R. 2010. Brhadisvara Temple: Form and Meaning. New Delhi: Aryan Books International.
Nilakanta Sastri, K.A. 1958. A History of South India: From Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar. London: Oxford University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find
Vidya, Dehejia. 1990. Art of the Imperial Cholas. New York: Columbia University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find
The Brihadishwara Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, built by Rajendra Chola I, is an architectural masterpiece that reflects the evolution of Chola temple design. While inspired by the Brihadishwara Temple at Thanjavur, this temple incorporates several unique refinements in structure and layout, showcasing the artistic and engineering advancements of the Chola period.
School & Style
The Bṛhadīśvara Temple at Gaṅgaikoṇḍa Chōḷapuram is a masterpiece of Drāviḍa architecture, reflecting the grandeur of the Chōḷa dynasty. Its towering vimāna stands as a testament to the era’s architectural innovation and divine symbolism.
The temple showcases intricately carved sculptures depicting deities and mythological narratives. Designed with precise alignment to cardinal directions, it creates a structured and symbolic spiritual journey for devotees. The grand layout and artistic brilliance exemplify the fusion of sacred geometry and Chōḷa craftsmanship.
Material Used & the Technique
The temple was constructed using granite, a material that was challenging to carve yet provided durability. The Cholas employed highly skilled artisans who used advanced stone-cutting and carving techniques to achieve the temple’s fine details. The interlocking system of stones ensured stability, and the use of natural binding materials facilitated longevity.
Plan & Layout
The temple follows a well-defined axial plan typical of Dravidian temples:
The sanctum (garbhagriha) houses a massive Shiva Linga, one of the largest in India.
The vimana (tower) stands at approximately 55 meters, slightly shorter than the one at Thanjavur but more elaborately sculpted.
The Gangaikonda Cōḷāpuram Temple is primarily built using granite, a stone known for its strength and durability.
The Classical Cholas (3rd century BCE) were early trailblazers Fast forward to the Imperial Cholas(9th–13th centuries CE), and they became global influencers under kings like Raja Raja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I, conquering lands from Sri Lanka to Southeast Asia.
A mandapa (hall) with intricately carved pillars leads to the sanctum.
The Nandi Mandapa features a large Nandi (sacred bull) facing the sanctum.
The prakaras (enclosures) house various subsidiary shrines and open courtyards.
A massive temple tank (Chola-era pushkarini) is located nearby, consecrated with water from the Ganga.
Exterior Features
The vimana is adorned with miniature shrine motifs, niches, and pilasters, creating a sense of depth and grandeur.
Large gopurams (gateway towers) at the entrance serve as an imposing gateway to the temple complex.
Exquisite friezes and cornices depict mythological themes, including Shiva in various divine forms.
Interior Features
The sanctum contains a monolithic Shiva Linga, over 4 meters in height, symbolizing the cosmic power of Lord Shiva.
The pillared halls display intricate floral and geometric designs, reflecting the finesse of Chola craftsmanship.
A series of niches and alcoves house deities, contributing to the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Subsidiary Shrines
The temple complex includes numerous smaller shrines dedicated to deities associated with Shaivism, including:
Ganesha Shrine – Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, symbolizing wisdom and prosperity.
Parvati Shrine – Housing an idol of Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva.
Chandikeswara Shrine – A common feature in Chola temples, dedicated to Lord Chandikeswara, the guardian of temple wealth.
Check out the
other Chola kings
For the Serious Reader
Nagaswamy, R. 2010. Brhadisvara Temple: Form and Meaning. New Delhi: Aryan Books International.
Nilakanta Sastri, K.A. 1958. A History of South India: From Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar. London: Oxford University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find
Vidya, Dehejia. 1990. Art of the Imperial Cholas. New York: Columbia University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find
While its grand architecture is widely celebrated, the temple’s sculptures reveal a world of intricate narratives, divine imagery, and cultural expressions carved in stone. Lets explores the temple’s sculptural brilliance under various thematic categories
Divine Forms: Depictions
of Shiva and Other Deities
At the heart of the temple’s sculptural program is the representation of Shiva in multiple divine forms, each capturing
different aspects of his cosmic roles:
Shiva as Brihadisvara: The grand deity in the sanctum symbolizes supreme power and grace.
Ardhanarishvara: The fusion of Shiva and Parvati into a single form, symbolizing cosmic balance and the unity of masculine and feminine energies.
Chandesanugraha Murti: A unique depiction of Shiva blessing his devotee Chandesa, emphasizing divine grace and devotion.
Mythological Narratives
The temple’s walls serve as a canvas for intricate mythological storytelling, bringing to life some of the most fascinating episodes from Hindu mythology:
Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean): A detailed depiction of the celestial battle between Devas and Asuras to extract the nectar of immortality.
Tripurantaka Shiva: A dramatic representation of Shiva destroying the three demon cities with a single arrow, symbolizing the triumph of divine will over evil.
Devotees & Saints
The Chola kings placed great emphasis on devotion, and this is reflected in the temple’s sculptures:
Royal Figures and Worshippers: Carvings of Chola kings and noble figures engaged in prayer underscore their deep religious commitment.
Rishis and Sages: Sculptures of revered sages like Agastya and Patanjali highlight the spiritual sanctity of the temple.
Celestial Beings & Guardians
Chola sculptors intricately depicted celestial and protective beings that add a divine aura to the temple’s surroundings:
Ganas and Bhutas: The mischievous attendants of Shiva are sculpted in playful and lively poses, adding an element of charm to the temple’s interiors.
Dvarapalas (Door Guardians): These colossal guardians stand at the entrance, exuding strength and vigilance.
The northern gate of the Brihadisvara Temple showcases numerous sculptures recovered from nearby ruins!
Animals & Nature
Nature and animal motifs play a significant role in the temple’s artistic vision.
The Nandi (Sacred Bull), a colossal sculpture facing the sanctum, serves as the divine mount of Shiva, symbolizing strength and devotion. Alongside Nandi, mythical creatures such as lions, makara, and yalis are intricately sculpted into pillars and friezes, symbolizing power and protection.
Scenes of Daily Life
Beyond religious themes, the temple’s sculptures offer glimpses into Chola-era cultural and social life.
Exquisite carvings of musicians and dancers bring to life the artistic vibrancy of the period, with Bharatanatyam dancers and musicians depicted in intricate detail. Temple rituals and offerings are also represented in sculptural panels, showing scenes of sacred bathing (abhishekam) and devotees making offerings.
Did you know that the Gangaikondacholapuram temple was once adorned with vibrant colors?
Though time has weathered much of the paint, fragments of these original murals still remain, offering a glimpse into the temple’s former splendor. These surviving remnants serve as silent witnesses to the grandeur of the Chola dynasty, telling stories of a rich artistic legacy that once breathed life into the stone walls.
We’ve found the perfect spot for you to take a stunning photograph at Brihadishwara!
Solve this puzzle to uncover the location. Are you up for the challenge?
For the Serious Reader
Nagaswamy, R. 2010. Brhadisvara Temple: Form and Meaning. New Delhi: Aryan Books International.
Nilakanta Sastri, K.A. 1958. A History of South India: From Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar. London: Oxford University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find
Vidya, Dehejia. 1990. Art of the Imperial Cholas. New York: Columbia University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find
The Chola dynasty, one of South India’s longest-ruling empires, offers valuable lessons in governance, culture, and innovation. Their advanced bureaucratic system emphasized local self-governance through village councils, which ensured efficient administration. The dynasty’s maritime strength and extensive trade networks across Southeast Asia fostered cultural and economic exchanges, reflecting the importance of global connections.
Before & After
Custodians
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram benefits from global recognition and support, underscoring its significance and the need for careful preservation.
Guided by UNESCO’s best practices, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) leads on-ground efforts—such as cleaning, restoration, and stabilization of the delicate chloritic schist stone carvings prone to erosion. In collaboration with state authorities and heritage conservation groups, these custodians work together to safeguard this iconic monument.
Enduring Challenges & Preservation Efforts
Since its inception, the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple has faced numerous threats and undergone extensive conservation efforts. Over the centuries, natural elements such as weathering, erosion, and climatic fluctuations have gradually worn away the intricate stone carvings. Human-induced challenges—including periods of neglect, potential vandalism, and environmental pollutants—have further threatened the temple’s structural and artistic integrity.
In response, successive generations of custodians have implemented a range of conservation measures.
Above all… the Clock’s ticking
Today, as with our lives, ‘Climate change’ is rewriting the fate of our heritage as well.
Let us Cherish & Preserve our Heritage!
Untouched panel remains pristine, while the accessible part fades under human hands
Touch me Not
Chola Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It
For your convenience
By Air
Nearest Airport is Trichy Airport (109 km). Ariyalur can be reached by bus or train from Trichy.
By Train
Chennai – Trichy Route, get off from the train at Ariyalur Railway Station
By Road
Ariyalur Bus Stand – Udaiyarpalayram – Jayankondam – Chidambaram Road (47 km) get off from the bus at GangaiKonda Cholapuram Bus Stop and can hire auto rikshaw to the temple.
To Stay
Kumbakonam is the best place to stay during your visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, offering a wide range of hotels and guest houses to suit every budget.
Experience
the
Local Flavours
The Cholas were among the most powerful dynasties in South Indian history, ruling for over four centuries. Their reign, particularly from the 9th to the 13th century, saw remarkable achievements in administration, military conquests, temple architecture, literature, and maritime trade.
Fairs & Festivals
Handicrafts
Kanjivaram sarees: Considered to be the descendants of the acclaimed heavenly weaver Markandeya, the weavers of Kanchipuram produce some of the excellent silk sarees in India.
Thanjavur Paintings: Nearby Thanajvur is known for its lavish pictures of deities painted in an eponymous art style entirely unique to the town.
Marked by brilliant colors and bright ornamentation like gold foil, Thanjavur art is a favorite among art collectors the world over.
Dosa: A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It is usually served with sambar (a lentil stew) and coconut chutney.
Idly: Steamed rice cakes made from fermented rice and lentil batter. They are a healthy and easily digestible breakfast option.
Sambar: The story of the sambar in Thanjavur goes back to the reign of Shahuji-I. His kitchen is believed to have tweaked the Amti using tur dal instead of moong dal and most importantly substituted kokum with tamarind pulp.
Delicacies
“Brihadisvara of Gangaikonda Cholapuram is one of the most perfect specimens of Hindu architecture”
– Percy Brown
Historian & author of Indian Architecture: Hindu and Buddhist
Bṛhadīśvara Temple, situated in Gaṅgaikoṇḍa Chōḷapuram near Jayaṅkoṇḍam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nāḍu, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Śiva. It was constructed in 1035 CE by Rājendra Chōḷa I as an integral part of his newly established capital.
This temple, belonging to the Chōḷa dynasty era, shares design similarities and a comparable name with the older Bṛhadīśvarar Temple, located approximately 70 kilometres (43 min) to the southwest in Tañjāvūr.
Chola Dynasty
848-1279 CE
Chola Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It
The Imperial Cholas: Their Kings and Achievements
The Cholas were among the most powerful dynasties in South Indian history, ruling for over four centuries.
Their reign, particularly from the 9th to the 13th century, saw remarkable achievements in administration, military conquests, temple architecture, literature, and maritime trade.
Check out the
other Chola kingsThe Cholas introduced an efficient governance system with well-organized provincial administration and an advanced irrigation network.
They also contributed significantly to Tamil literature, fostering great poets like Kamban, who wrote the Tamil Ramayana.
Rajendra Chola I, son of Rajaraja Chola I, was one of the greatest kings of the Chola dynasty. His rule marked the zenith of Chola power and territorial expansion. His key achievements include:
Northern Expeditions: He led campaigns up to the Ganges River, defeating the Pala dynasty of Bengal. To commemorate this feat, he assumed the title ‘Gangaikonda Chola’ and built the new capital, Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Naval Supremacy: His fleet dominated the Bay of Bengal, leading successful conquests in Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and parts of Southeast Asia, including Srivijaya (modern-day Indonesia and Malaysia).
Rajendra in Battle, Kolar
Architectural Marvel – The Brihadishwara Temple
of Gangaikonda Cholapuram: He built this temple as a replica of the Thanjavur Brihadishwara Temple, though it features some architectural refinements such as a shorter but more intricate vimana and a massive Nandi statue. The temple’s bronze sculptures and stone carvings display exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting the height of Chola artistry.The Cholas introduced an efficient governance system with well-organized provincial administration and an advanced irrigation network.
They also contributed significantly to Tamil literature, fostering great poets like Kamban, who wrote the Tamil Ramayana.
Copper plate of Rajendra I
about building a temple in
Srivijaya Empire
Legend has it…
The Brihadishwara Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a magnificent structure built by the Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I, derives its name from the Sanskrit words ‘Brihad’ (meaning ‘great’) and ‘Ishwara’ (meaning ‘Lord’), signifying the grandeur and supreme divinity of Lord Shiva.
According to local legends, Rajendra Chola I, upon his victorious return from the northern expeditions, wanted to create a temple grander than his father Rajaraja Chola I’s Brihadishwara Temple at Thanjavur.
Know the Historian
P.V. Jagadīśa Ayyar’s 1920 work, “South Indian Shrines,” is a pioneering study of South Indian temple architecture, with a special focus on the Bṛhadīśvara Temple at Gaṅgaikoṇḍa Chōḷapuram.
Written during a period of growing archaeological interest in India, it offers one of the earliest detailed analyses of the temple’s structure, sculptures, inscriptions, and historical significance. This foundational text remains essential for anyone seeking to understand the architectural and cultural legacy of South Indian temples.
For the Serious Reader
Nagaswamy, R. 2010. Brhadisvara Temple: Form and Meaning. New Delhi: Aryan Books International.Nilakanta Sastri, K.A. 1958. A History of South India: From Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar. London: Oxford University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find Vidya, Dehejia. 1990. Art of the Imperial Cholas. New York: Columbia University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find The Brihadishwara Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, built by Rajendra Chola I, is an architectural masterpiece that reflects the evolution of Chola temple design. While inspired by the Brihadishwara Temple at Thanjavur, this temple incorporates several unique refinements in structure and layout, showcasing the artistic and engineering advancements of the Chola period.
School & Style
The Bṛhadīśvara Temple at Gaṅgaikoṇḍa Chōḷapuram is a masterpiece of Drāviḍa architecture, reflecting the grandeur of the Chōḷa dynasty. Its towering vimāna stands as a testament to the era’s architectural innovation and divine symbolism.
The temple showcases intricately carved sculptures depicting deities and mythological narratives. Designed with precise alignment to cardinal directions, it creates a structured and symbolic spiritual journey for devotees. The grand layout and artistic brilliance exemplify the fusion of sacred geometry and Chōḷa craftsmanship.
Material Used & the Technique
The temple was constructed using granite, a material that was challenging to carve yet provided durability. The Cholas employed highly skilled artisans who used advanced stone-cutting and carving techniques to achieve the temple’s fine details. The interlocking system of stones ensured stability, and the use of natural binding materials facilitated longevity.
Plan & Layout
The temple follows a well-defined axial plan typical of Dravidian temples:
The sanctum (garbhagriha) houses a massive Shiva Linga, one of the largest in India.
The vimana (tower) stands at approximately 55 meters, slightly shorter than the one at Thanjavur but more elaborately sculpted.
The Gangaikonda Cōḷāpuram Temple is primarily built using granite, a stone known for its strength and durability.
The Classical Cholas (3rd century BCE) were early trailblazers Fast forward to the Imperial Cholas(9th–13th centuries CE), and they became global influencers under kings like Raja Raja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I, conquering lands from Sri Lanka to Southeast Asia.
A mandapa (hall) with intricately carved pillars leads to the sanctum.
The Nandi Mandapa features a large Nandi (sacred bull) facing the sanctum.
The prakaras (enclosures) house various subsidiary shrines and open courtyards.
A massive temple tank (Chola-era pushkarini) is located nearby, consecrated with water from the Ganga.
Exterior Features
The vimana is adorned with miniature shrine motifs, niches, and pilasters, creating a sense of depth and grandeur.
Large gopurams (gateway towers) at the entrance serve as an imposing gateway to the temple complex.
Exquisite friezes and cornices depict mythological themes, including Shiva in various divine forms.
Interior Features
The sanctum contains a monolithic Shiva Linga, over 4 meters in height, symbolizing the cosmic power of Lord Shiva.
The pillared halls display intricate floral and geometric designs, reflecting the finesse of Chola craftsmanship.
A series of niches and alcoves house deities, contributing to the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Subsidiary Shrines
The temple complex includes numerous smaller shrines dedicated to deities associated with Shaivism, including:
Ganesha Shrine – Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, symbolizing wisdom and prosperity.
Parvati Shrine – Housing an idol of Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva.
Chandikeswara Shrine – A common feature in Chola temples, dedicated to Lord Chandikeswara, the guardian of temple wealth.
Check out the
other Chola kings
For the Serious Reader
Nagaswamy, R. 2010. Brhadisvara Temple: Form and Meaning. New Delhi: Aryan Books International.Nilakanta Sastri, K.A. 1958. A History of South India: From Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar. London: Oxford University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find Vidya, Dehejia. 1990. Art of the Imperial Cholas. New York: Columbia University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find While its grand architecture is widely celebrated, the temple’s sculptures reveal a world of intricate narratives, divine imagery, and cultural expressions carved in stone. Lets explores the temple’s sculptural brilliance under various thematic categories
Divine Forms: Depictions
of Shiva and Other Deities
At the heart of the temple’s sculptural program is the representation of Shiva in multiple divine forms, each capturing
different aspects of his cosmic roles:
Shiva as Brihadisvara: The grand deity in the sanctum symbolizes supreme power and grace.
Ardhanarishvara: The fusion of Shiva and Parvati into a single form, symbolizing cosmic balance and the unity of masculine and feminine energies.
Chandesanugraha Murti: A unique depiction of Shiva blessing his devotee Chandesa, emphasizing divine grace and devotion.
Mythological Narratives
The temple’s walls serve as a canvas for intricate mythological storytelling, bringing to life some of the most fascinating episodes from Hindu mythology:
Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean): A detailed depiction of the celestial battle between Devas and Asuras to extract the nectar of immortality.
Tripurantaka Shiva: A dramatic representation of Shiva destroying the three demon cities with a single arrow, symbolizing the triumph of divine will over evil.
Devotees & Saints
The Chola kings placed great emphasis on devotion, and this is reflected in the temple’s sculptures:
Royal Figures and Worshippers: Carvings of Chola kings and noble figures engaged in prayer underscore their deep religious commitment.
Rishis and Sages: Sculptures of revered sages like Agastya and Patanjali highlight the spiritual sanctity of the temple.
Celestial Beings & Guardians
Chola sculptors intricately depicted celestial and protective beings that add a divine aura to the temple’s surroundings:
Ganas and Bhutas: The mischievous attendants of Shiva are sculpted in playful and lively poses, adding an element of charm to the temple’s interiors.
Dvarapalas (Door Guardians): These colossal guardians stand at the entrance, exuding strength and vigilance.
The northern gate of the Brihadisvara Temple showcases numerous sculptures recovered from nearby ruins!
Animals & Nature
Nature and animal motifs play a significant role in the temple’s artistic vision.
The Nandi (Sacred Bull), a colossal sculpture facing the sanctum, serves as the divine mount of Shiva, symbolizing strength and devotion. Alongside Nandi, mythical creatures such as lions, makara, and yalis are intricately sculpted into pillars and friezes, symbolizing power and protection.
Scenes of Daily Life
Beyond religious themes, the temple’s sculptures offer glimpses into Chola-era cultural and social life.
Exquisite carvings of musicians and dancers bring to life the artistic vibrancy of the period, with Bharatanatyam dancers and musicians depicted in intricate detail. Temple rituals and offerings are also represented in sculptural panels, showing scenes of sacred bathing (abhishekam) and devotees making offerings.
Did you know that the Gangaikondacholapuram temple was once adorned with vibrant colors?
Though time has weathered much of the paint, fragments of these original murals still remain, offering a glimpse into the temple’s former splendor. These surviving remnants serve as silent witnesses to the grandeur of the Chola dynasty, telling stories of a rich artistic legacy that once breathed life into the stone walls.
We’ve found the perfect spot for you to take a stunning photograph at Brihadishwara!
Solve this puzzle to uncover the location. Are you up for the challenge?
For the Serious Reader
Nagaswamy, R. 2010. Brhadisvara Temple: Form and Meaning. New Delhi: Aryan Books International.Nilakanta Sastri, K.A. 1958. A History of South India: From Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar. London: Oxford University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find Vidya, Dehejia. 1990. Art of the Imperial Cholas. New York: Columbia University Press.
Legend has it that the 12th Śaṅkarācārya of the Śṛṅgerī Maṭha, Śrī Vidyāraṇya, was on a quest to find The Chola dynasty, one of South India’s longest-ruling empires, offers valuable lessons in governance, culture, and innovation. Their advanced bureaucratic system emphasized local self-governance through village councils, which ensured efficient administration. The dynasty’s maritime strength and extensive trade networks across Southeast Asia fostered cultural and economic exchanges, reflecting the importance of global connections.
Before & After
Custodians
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram benefits from global recognition and support, underscoring its significance and the need for careful preservation.
Guided by UNESCO’s best practices, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) leads on-ground efforts—such as cleaning, restoration, and stabilization of the delicate chloritic schist stone carvings prone to erosion. In collaboration with state authorities and heritage conservation groups, these custodians work together to safeguard this iconic monument.
Enduring Challenges & Preservation Efforts
Since its inception, the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple has faced numerous threats and undergone extensive conservation efforts. Over the centuries, natural elements such as weathering, erosion, and climatic fluctuations have gradually worn away the intricate stone carvings. Human-induced challenges—including periods of neglect, potential vandalism, and environmental pollutants—have further threatened the temple’s structural and artistic integrity.
In response, successive generations of custodians have implemented a range of conservation measures.
Above all… the Clock’s ticking
Today, as with our lives, ‘Climate change’ is rewriting the fate of our heritage as well.
Let us Cherish & Preserve our Heritage!
Untouched panel remains pristine, while the accessible part fades under human hands
Touch me Not
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For your convenience
By Air
Nearest Airport is Trichy Airport (109 km). Ariyalur can be reached by bus or train from Trichy.
By Train
Chennai – Trichy Route, get off from the train at Ariyalur Railway Station
By Road
Ariyalur Bus Stand – Udaiyarpalayram – Jayankondam – Chidambaram Road (47 km) get off from the bus at GangaiKonda Cholapuram Bus Stop and can hire auto rikshaw to the temple.
To Stay
Kumbakonam is the best place to stay during your visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, offering a wide range of hotels and guest houses to suit every budget.
Experience
the
Local Flavours
The Cholas were among the most powerful dynasties in South Indian history, ruling for over four centuries. Their reign, particularly from the 9th to the 13th century, saw remarkable achievements in administration, military conquests, temple architecture, literature, and maritime trade.
Fairs & Festivals
Handicrafts
Kanjivaram sarees: Considered to be the descendants of the acclaimed heavenly weaver Markandeya, the weavers of Kanchipuram produce some of the excellent silk sarees in India.
Thanjavur Paintings: Nearby Thanajvur is known for its lavish pictures of deities painted in an eponymous art style entirely unique to the town.
Marked by brilliant colors and bright ornamentation like gold foil, Thanjavur art is a favorite among art collectors the world over.
Dosa: A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It is usually served with sambar (a lentil stew) and coconut chutney.
Idly: Steamed rice cakes made from fermented rice and lentil batter. They are a healthy and easily digestible breakfast option.
Sambar: The story of the sambar in Thanjavur goes back to the reign of Shahuji-I. His kitchen is believed to have tweaked the Amti using tur dal instead of moong dal and most importantly substituted kokum with tamarind pulp.