Dharasuram Airavatesvara Temple

A wonderful temple to visit. This is one of the few temples that is best visited during the afternoons. There will be very little crowd and unlike other temples, even if it's too hot, you won't have to worry. The temple is well shaded and you can always repose to a place where cool air is passing. It is not as famous as other temples of Tamil Nadu but has its own charm.

During my recent visit to this temple, I was truly amazed by its architectural splendor. The chariot-like carvings stood out with exceptional craftsmanship, leaving a lasting impression. The beautiful lush green meadow outside enhances the overall peaceful ambiance.

The temple reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Chola dynasty. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is named after ‘Airavat’, the majestic white elephant of Lord Indra. UNESCO world heritage site, this temple has lot of miniature sculptures, intricate designs all over, including riser of steps. Slightly below the ground level, huge green wide lawns around the temple adds more beauty, hue trees with seating benches under it, Devi temple slightly adjacent to the Shiva temple, has similar features. Best time to visit in the mornings..!

A beautiful and serene temple, devoid of tourists. One hour from Thanjavur, perfect for a day-trip. The temple complex has a well maintained garden outside where you can chill and rest and inside the temple you’ve beautifully carved pillars and sculptures. The temple is carved as if sitting on a charriot.

A must see temple. A UNESCO world heritage site. Old, built in the 12 century and still functioning as a Shiva temple. The sculptures and carvings are magnificent. Please take a guide. It is difficult to notice and appreciate the carvings otherwise. Our guide Mr Ram Kumar was excellent. It will take you 2-3 hours to see properly.

Fabulous temple with brilliant architecture and intricate carvings, each panel and niche has a story to tell. . Make sure you ask a guide to point out the details and tell you the stories. Closes between 12 and 4. Take socks so you can save ur feet as the stones get really hot

Dharasuram Airavatesvara Temple

Nestled amidst the tranquil countryside of Tamil Nadu lies a hidden gem of ancient architecture and spiritual significance – the Dharasuram Airavatesvara Temple. From the moment I set foot in this sacred sanctuary, I was transported to a world of timeless elegance and divine beauty.

The Dharasuram Airavatesvara Temple is a masterpiece of Chola architecture, renowned for its intricate carvings, majestic vimana, and serene ambiance. As I wandered through its hallowed halls and sacred shrines, I was captivated by the intricate detailing adorning every surface, from the graceful sculptures of celestial beings to the elaborate friezes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

One of the most striking features of the temple is its majestic vimana, soaring gracefully towards the heavens like a testament to the divine. Adorned with delicate carvings and intricate motifs, it stands as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, inspiring awe and reverence in all who behold it.

But it's not just the architectural beauty that makes the Dharasuram Airavatesvara Temple special – it's the palpable sense of serenity and tranquility that pervades the entire complex. Away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, this sacred sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat where one can connect with the divine and find solace amidst the chaos of the world.

Visiting the Dharasuram Airavatesvara Temple is not just a journey through history – it's a spiritual pilgrimage that touches the soul and leaves a lasting impression on the heart. Whether you're a devout pilgrim, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a seeker of inner peace, this ancient temple is sure to leave you inspired and uplifted. I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in the timeless elegance of the Dharasuram Airavatesvara Temple – for in its embrace, you will find beauty, tranquility, and a profound sense of connection to something greater than yourself.

Dharasuram Temple in Kumbakonam is a must-visit spot! The musical stones are the highlights and very incredible! The temple is adorned with marvelous sculptures. Plus, it offers spacious parking and is usually less crowded, very close to the Kumbakonam main town and many temples situated nearby making your visit even more enjoyable. Don't miss out on this gem of a destination when you're in Kumbakonam.

17.02.2024

Dharasuram Airavadeswarar Temple

Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram is deicated to Lord Shiva.

This is a UNESCO world heritage site. Airavatesvara Temple was built by the Chola King Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century CE. It is amongst the eighteen medieval era Hindu temples in the Kumbakonam area.

According to legend, Airavata, the white elephant of Indra, worshipped Lord Siva in this temple.

Airavatesvara Temple is one of the four temples built by the Cholas entirely on stone Vimanas. Though much smaller in size when compared to the Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur and
Gangaikondacholapuram, this temple is different as it is highly ornate in execution. The temple consists of a sanctum and axial mandapas. The front mandapa known in the inscriptions as Rajagambhiran Tirumandapam is unique as it was conceptualized as a chariot with wheels. The pillars of this mandapa are highly ornate. This chariot hall has intricately carved steps going from east to west. It is believed that when one walks on them they produce pleasant music. They are thus, known as 'singing steps'.

The main deity's consort Periya Nayaki Amman temple is situated adjacent to Airavateshwarar temple.

The temple has smaller shrines dedicated to several Vedic and Puranic deities including Indra, Agni, Varuna, Vayu, Brahma, Surya, Vishnu, Saptamtrikas, Durga, Saraswati, Sri Devi (Lakshmi), Ganga, Yamuna, Subrahmanya, Ganesha, Kama, Rati, and others. Many sculptures from this temple like the full set of Bhikshatana with rishi patnis in various moods are now preserved in the Thanjavur Art Gallery.

Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM

One of the best temple constructed by the great Cholas. Best architecture. You should visit this temple once in your life time to experience the spiritual and vitness this beautiful temple.

Explored the Dharapuram Temple, a serene haven of spirituality. I suggest you go during sunset, golden hour. The intricate carvings and peaceful ambiance create a profound connection with divinity. A hidden gem, inviting reflection and tranquility.

The temple was built by Rajaraja Cholan II . It's a UNESCO heritage site. The architecture of the temple is amazing. One of the must visit temples if you love to visit heritage sites.

We went to thanjavur in hopes of visiting Iravateswar and Brihadeeswar. What a grandiose beauty it is!! I was spellbound. Unlike the big temple, this temple is less crowded and well maintained. It’s around 40 km from Thanjavur town. The architecture is as good as big temple. It’s a must visit if you’re in town.
There’s ample parking space outside the premise and tour guides are available.

The Airavatesvara Temple is a Hindu temple of Dravidian architecture located in Kumbakonam…!
Dedicated to Shiva, it was built by King Rajaraja Chola II, who ruled the Chola Empire between 1146 and 1172 CE…!
Added to UNESCO's World Heritage Site list of Great Living Chola Temples in 2004, it is part of a collection that includes the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur and the Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram at Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
This temple is a storehouse of art and architecture, boasting beautiful design. There are many buses available from Kumbakonam bus terminal, making it a must-visit destination..🙏👏

Iravatheeswarar ஐராவதீஸ்வரர் Temple is the one of the Greatest Architectural Temple in the World.

Every one must visit this temple to see the Architecture which is built before 800 Years ago by King Rajaraja Chola II.

Every one is responsible to keep the Historical Places near and clean.

No explanation required! Architectural marvel and one of the three living Chola temples listed by Unesco as a heritage site.
Went here to capture full moon on an evening and specially to see the musical stairs. Unfortunately, these stairs have been locked inside a meshed cage as it is being vandalized by insensitive tourists.
Also, extremely disappointed by the Poojari at the main shrine who was forcing us to offer money into the plate and giving Tilak only after offering money in the plate which he picked up immediately after being put.
Such a famous place loses its sanctity with such behaviors of the main priests.

Obviously is a 5 star review as its a temple. The environment is so nice along with the carved details that were infact very detailed that some had some elephants carved in them🐘🛕! Nearby this temple there are several spaces where you can sit, eat and play. There were also nearby stalls with scrumptious food to eat when hungry! This place is definetely to visit if you want to take photos or generally like photography 📷🎥 To conclude, this is an antique yet intriguing piece of history that has a lot of meaning. Afterall, A painting speaks more than a thousand words no?

The Airavatesvara Temple in Dharasuram, Tamil Nadu, is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Chola dynasty and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here's a concise review:

1. **Architectural Grandeur**: The temple showcases exquisite Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and impressive vimanas (towering structures). The mandapams (halls) and intricate stone pillars reflect the artistic mastery of the Chola artisans.

2. **Historical Importance**: Built in the 12th century by Rajaraja Chola II, the temple stands as a significant representation of the Chola era's religious and cultural prominence.

3. **Spiritual Significance**: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple reverberates with spirituality. Devotees believe that worshipping here can bestow blessings and spiritual enlightenment.

4. **Musical Pillars**: One of the temple's unique features is its musical pillars. When tapped, these pillars produce different musical notes, showcasing the ancient Indians' deep understanding of acoustics and architecture.

5. **Location and Ambiance**: Nestled amidst serene surroundings, the temple offers visitors a tranquil environment. The well-maintained temple complex and its serene pond add to its charm.

In summary, the Dharasuram Temple is not only a marvel of ancient architecture but also a sacred space that resonates with spiritual energy. Its historical significance, coupled with its architectural splendor, makes it a must-visit for both history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.

Very good temple. Peaceful place. We visited on Sunday but no rush in temple. Wonderful architecture. UNESCO world heritage site.

It is a sculptures paradise...... Built by rajaraja chola 2 ..... This temple houses imagery of war and shiva in his valiant forms...... The theme of this temple is shiva envisioned in the 3 faced form from which the temple derives it's name airavateswara temple.... Has images of many sages and maharishis unlike many temple....... It is truly a work of divine art and spirituality