About Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

The history of Tamil Nadu comprises awesome details mostly about the Chera, Chola and Pandya kingdoms. Out of the three, the Chola dynasty has a significant place in history, which can be divided into three periods: Early, Medieval and Later Cholas. Though all three periods are acclaimed by historians, the later Cholas are celebrated by history buffs and archaeology specialists.

Gangai Konda Cholapuram, a small town located in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, was once an imperial capital of the Chola Dynasty. Gangai Konda Cholapuram is renowned across the world for the Brahadeeswara temple, which is one among the three Great Living Chola Temples acclaimed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The other two are the Big Temple at Tanjore and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram near Kumbakonam.

Having emerged as the victorious successor of the Great Chola King Raja Raja Cholan, Rajendra Cholan ruled the Chola dynasty for over three decades. Within this short span of time, with his relentless efforts and strategic planning, the Chola dynasty became one of the most powerful rulers, expanding its horizons across the Northern part of India. Chalukyas, the kings of Vengi and others, were defeated by King Rajendra in furious battles.

Tourists and historians from all corners of the country and the globe are awestruck by the stunning beauty of this temple. Though it was built to reflect the Big Temple, this temple has its own unique grandeur and style, and the sanctum houses a comparatively larger idol of Lord Shiva in the form of Lingam. The tranquil ambience and the mystic beauty of this temple, bundled with stories from ancient times, add more reasons to visit this temple.

As Rajendra proceeded and conquered the regions around Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges, which was the rarest thing to happen during those times, he was titled Gangai Konda Cholan. King Rajendra was astonished to see the Big Temple built by his father, King Raja Raja Chola,n and he wanted to create a replica of that. The place that is now called Gangai Konda Cholapuram was selected for the temple.

Tourists and historians from all corners of the country and the globe are awestruck by the stunning beauty of this temple. Though it was built to reflect the Big Temple, this temple has its own unique grandeur and style, and the sanctum houses a comparatively larger idol of Lord Shiva in the form of Lingam. The tranquil ambience and the mystic beauty of this temple, bundled with stories from ancient times, add more reasons to visit this temple.

The huge lingam in the sanctum and the bull, which is believed to be a monolithic one, are truly an engineering marvel. One more interesting location inside the temple is where there is a lion, and when you step down into its mouth, you will be led to a well where the queens and princesses used to take baths. When you see it from outside, it is completely hidden from your eyes.

A delightful evening will make your time more pleasant when you happen to see the temple lit with lamps, and you can loiter in the well-maintained gardens with your family and friends.

Pitchavaram, Chidhambaram, and Parikkal are the tourist destinations near Gangai Konda Cholapuram. A visit to this historic site will help you explore the ancient monuments, its tradition and culture, which were at their peak during the Chola Dynasty.

Gangai Konda Cholapuram deserves to be placed at the top of the list in your itinerary during your visit to the Delta region of Tamil Nadu.

How to Reach Gangaikonda Cholapuram?

• Air: Trichy is the airport nearest to Gangaikonda Cholapuram at a distance of 115 km, which can be crossed using a prepaid taxi.
• Train: From the railway station at Kumbakonam, Gangai Konda Cholapuram is at a distance of 34 km.
• Bus: State-run buses and prepaid taxis are available to reach GangaiKonda Cholapuram from nearby cities like Kumbakonam, Chidambaram, Mayiladuthurai, Jeyamkondam and Ariyalur.