Deity
Shiva (Airavatesvara)
Main deity
श्री ऐरावतेश्वर
Airavatesvara Temple
Airavatesvara Temple is a Chola-era Shiva temple at Darasuram in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, dated to the 12th century. Recognized as a UNESCO-listed monument, it is noted for Chola architecture and is a key stop for pilgrims and heritage travelers in the region.
Airavatesvara Temple
Airavatesvara Temple
Airavatesvara Temple
Airavatesvara Temple
Airavatesvara Temple
Temple Summary
Quick Facts
Pilgrimage Status
UNESCO-listed temple
Heritage site
Architecture
Chola style (12th century)
Dynasty: Chola
Location
Darasuram, Tamil Nadu
Thanjavur district
Temple Profile
History and Significance
History
- Founded
- 12th Century AD
- Founder
- Rajaraja Chola II
- Construction
- 1146 - 1173 AD
- Airavatesvara Temple was commissioned by Chola Emperor Rajaraja II during the 12th century AD at Darasuram near Kumbakonam. Constructed out of dark granite stone, it represents the mature late Chola architectural style. It forms part of the Great Living Chola Temples UNESCO World Heritage site alongside Tanjore and Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Significance
- Airavatesvara Temple is renowned for its stone front mandapam sculpted as a grand chariot pulled by horses and elephants. The temple is named after Airavata, the white elephant of Indra, who worshipped Lord Shiva here to cure a divine curse. The stone pillars exhibit miniature relief carvings depicting scenes from the Periya Puranam and celestial dancers.
Temple Pilgrimage Summary
Pilgrim Guide
Before You Visit
Use the full-day window
The record lists approximate hours of 06:00–18:00; plan your arrival to avoid midday heat and peak crowding.
Keep time for heritage viewing
As a UNESCO-listed monument, allow extra time to observe architectural details without rushing.
Carry essentials
Bring water and comfortable footwear suitable for walking around a large temple complex.
Confirm same-day access
Because timings are approximate, verify opening status locally, especially on festival days or special occasions.
Be mindful of rules
Follow on-site instructions regarding restricted areas and maintain respectful conduct during worship.
Temple Timings
Darshan Schedule
Opening timings
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Festivals
Temple Calendar Highlights
Feb–Mar • Major annual observance
Maha Shivaratri
Night-long worship and abhishekam cycles draw high pilgrim participation.
Jul–Aug • Monthly observance
Shravana Somvar
Shravana Mondays are observed with Shiva-focused vrata and offerings.
Oct–Nov • Festival period
Kartik Deepam
Lamp-lighting rituals and evening devotion are widely observed.
Temple Knowledge
Contribute to Airavatesvara Temple
Add local insights, rituals, timings, legends, or details other yatris should know.
Community Notes
0
GG
Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Weekday mornings usually have shorter darshan queues than weekends.
GG
Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Carry a small cloth bag for footwear token and prasad containers.
GG
Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Aarti timings can shift on festival days, so check local notice boards.
Minimum 4 characters. Be respectful and factual.
No community notes yet. Be the first one to share local knowledge.
Page QR
ज्ञ
श्री ऐरावतेश्वर
Airavatesvara Temple
Additional Resources
Watch
Temple Videos
Titles and links are sourced from temple JSON profile data.
