Deity
Shiva (Brihadeeswarar)
Main deity
श्री बृहदीश्वर मंदिर
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur is a grand Shiva temple in the Chola Dravidian style. This record dates it to the 11th century under the Chola dynasty and notes its UNESCO-listed status, highlighting its prominence among India’s celebrated temple monuments.
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Temple Summary
Quick Facts
Pilgrimage Status
UNESCO-listed landmark
Heritage status
Architecture
Chola Dravidian
Style
Location
Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
City • State
Temple Profile
History and Significance
History
- Founded
- 1010 CE
- Founder
- Raja Raja Chola I
- Construction
- 1003 - 1010 CE
- Commissioned by Chola Emperor Raja Raja Chola I in 1003 CE and completed in 1010 CE, the temple represents the pinnacle of Dravidian stone architecture. Built entirely of granite, its 216-foot vimana remains one of the tallest temple towers in the world, crowned by an 80-ton single stone capstone. Subsequent additions were built by Nayak and Maratha rulers.
Significance
- Brihadeeswarar Temple (Peruvudaiyar Kovil) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its imperial Chola architecture. The sanctum houses a colossal Shiva lingam and a massive 20-ton monolithic Nandi statue carved from a single stone block. Wall inscriptions provide extensive historical records of medieval Chola administration and culture.
Temple Pilgrimage Summary
Pilgrim Guide
Before You Visit
Check the approximate hours
Timings are marked approximate (06:00–20:30). Confirm locally if you are planning a sunrise/sunset visit.
Allow time for heritage viewing
As a UNESCO-listed landmark, many visitors spend time beyond darshan for architectural viewing—plan extra time accordingly.
Dress and temple etiquette
Wear modest clothing and follow queue systems and sanctum-area instructions.
Hydration and heat planning
Thanjavur can be warm; carry water and pace your visit, especially if you are walking around the larger temple grounds.
Follow photography guidance
Ask about permitted areas for photography/videography and respect any restrictions on signage.
Temple Timings
Darshan Schedule
Opening timings
06:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 04:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Open daily under Archaeological Survey of India administration.
Festivals
Temple Calendar Highlights
Not specified • Not specified
Maha Shivaratri
A major Shiva festival commonly observed at Shiva temples; this record does not provide temple-specific schedules.
Not specified • Not specified
Pradosham
Regular Shiva observance days; specific timings and rituals are not included in this record.
Not specified • Not specified
Karthigai Deepam
Often celebrated in Tamil Nadu temples; this record does not list temple-specific details.
Temple Knowledge
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Community Notes
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Weekday mornings usually have shorter darshan queues than weekends.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Carry a small cloth bag for footwear token and prasad containers.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Aarti timings can shift on festival days, so check local notice boards.
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ज्ञ
श्री बृहदीश्वर मंदिर
Brihadeeswarar Temple
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