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Brihadeeswarar Temple
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Landmark
The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, completed in 1010 CE by King Raja Raja Chola I. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the 'Great Living Chola Temples' group. Its most striking feature is the 66-meter-high Vimana (temple tower), which was built entirely of granite, a material not found locally within a 60-kilometer radius. The summit of the tower is capped by a monolithic stone known as the Kumbam, weighing approximately 80 tons. The exterior walls are adorned with exquisite sculptures of Hindu deities and detailed inscriptions that provide historical records of the Chola administration and social structure. A massive statue of Nandi, the sacred bull, carved from a single rock, stands at the entrance, guarding the sanctum dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Location: India
- Top sights: Arulmigu Brahmakandeeswarar Temple · Arulmigu Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Kovil · Brihadishwara Temple
- Nearby: Rameswaram (37 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 26 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 9 | 9 | 16 | 34 | 76 | 40 | 59 | 84 | 104 | 163 | 170 | 67 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur is an active Hindu temple open to visitors. You can view the main shrine and surrounding mandapas.
Typical hours
The temple is typically open from 6 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 8:30 PM. Morning hours are less crowded.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the outer area but prohibited inside the main shrine. Flash should generally be avoided.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts one to one and a half hours. For a thorough look at architectural details, you need two hours.
Combine with
Combine the temple with the Thanjavur Maratha Palace and Saraswati Mahal Library. The old city is also within walking distance.
Getting there
The temple is located in central Thanjavur, about 2 km from the bus station. Taxis and rickshaws are readily available.
Insider tip
Visit the temple during classical dance performances that occasionally take place. Dress appropriately, covering shoulders and knees.
Geography
Facts
- Completed in 1010 CE by Raja Raja Chola I
- The Vimana tower reaches a height of 66 meters
- The 80-ton capstone was hoisted via a 6 km earthen ramp
- Over 130,000 tons of granite were used in its construction
- The Nandi statue is carved from a single piece of granite
- First temple in the world to be built entirely of granite
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Brihadeeswarar Temple (11)
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Frequently asked questions
What material is the temple made of?
The entire temple was constructed using over 130,000 tons of granite.
Does the temple really cast no shadow at noon?
It is a popular myth; due to its architectural design, the shadow appears not to fall on the ground at noon.
How heavy is the stone on top of the tower?
The 'Kumbam' dome on top weighs about 80 tons and was carved from a single block of granite.
Is it part of UNESCO World Heritage?
Yes, it is one of the 'Great Living Chola Temples' listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Is there a large Nandi statue?
Yes, there is a massive statue of Nandi the bull at the entrance, carved from a single rock.
Brihadeeswarar Temple: where is it located?
Brihadeeswarar Temple is located in India.
Brihadeeswarar Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Arulmigu Brahmakandeeswarar Temple, Arulmigu Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Kovil, Brihadishwara Temple.
Brihadeeswarar Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Brihadeeswarar Temple: why is it worth visiting?
The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, completed in 1010 CE by King Raja Raja Chola I.
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