Tamil Nadu Tourism
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Tamil Nadu Temples

Tamil Nadu Temples

Brihadeeswarar Temple

Thanjavur city, thanjavur

About Brihadeeswarar Temple


Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Thanjavur. It was built by Raja Raja Chola I between 1003 and 1010 AD and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The temple is famous for its grand buildings, especially its tallest Vimana (temple tower), which is one of the tallest temples in the world which is approximately 216 feet (66 meters) high and is topped by a massive stone dome weighing 80 tons.

The main temple is built entirely of granite and has beautiful carvings and sculptures depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and religious beliefs. A huge lingam (incredible representation of Lord Shiva) is also installed inside the holy temple. Brihadeeswarar Temple has both religious and architectural significance for people and attracts devotees and tourists from all over the world. One of the important and famous festival Maha Shivaratri festival is celebrated here with great enthusiasm every year.

History of Brihadeeswarar Temple

This temple was built by Chola Emperor Rajaraja I in Thanjavur in 1010 AD, after he defeated King Elango Mutharayar in 850 AD and it is more than1000 years old now. This temple was built in a notion to showcase the exemplary power of the great Chola emperors.

Speciality of Brihadeeswarar Temple

The Speciality of Brihadeeswarar Temple lies in its impeccable architecture and engineering marvel. It is believed that the shadow of the Tanjore temple does not fall on the ground at noon due to the construction of the unique basement. Due to its size, the tomb itself is said to absorb the shadow of the larger Thanjavur temple.

Temple timings - 6am-12:30pm, 4-8:30pm

Dress code

There are no specific dress code but it is suggested to dress up traditionally and avoid modern clothes like mini-skirts, low-wait jeans, shorts, and even sleeveless tops while visiting the temple premises.

How to reach Brihadeeswarar Temple?

By Air - Trichy airport is the nearest to reach Brihadeeswarar Temple covering 61 km.

By Train - Tanjore railway station is the nearest junction to reach Brihadeeswarar Temple covering 2 km. Trichy junction is also the best option to reach the temple.

By Road - All road ways in Tamil Nadu are well- connected to reach Nagapattinam through NH 36, NH45C, NH83, NH38, and NH67

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is photography allowed inside Brihadeeswarar Temple?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the temple premises expect for inside Sanctum sanctorum
What is the best time to visit Brihadeeswarar Temple?
The best time to visit Brihadeeswarar Temple is November to March
Is Brihadeeswarar Temple always crowded?
Brihadeeswarar Temple is not much crowded.
What is the mystery of Brihadeeswarar Temple?
It is believed that if people who are in power visit Brihadeeswarar Temple will soon pave ways to various misfortunes
How much time it takes to see the Brihadeeswarar Temple?
It takes maximum 2-3 hours to spend time and view the beauty of the temple.

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