Thanjavur

Brihadishvara Temple, also called Rajarajesvaram or Peruvudaiyar Koyil, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the largest South Indian temples and an exemplary example of a fully realized Dravidian architecture. It is called as Dhakshina Meru (Meru of south).[citation needed] Built by Raja Raja Chola I between 1003 and 1010 AD, the temple is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Great Living Chola Temples", along with the Chola dynasty era Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple and Airavatesvara temple that are about 70 kilometres (43 mi) and 40 kilometres (25 mi) to its northeast respectively. A spectrum of Hindu temple styles continued to develop from the 5th to the 9th century over the Chalukya era rule as evidenced in Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal, and then with the Pallava era as witnessed at Mamallapuram and other monuments. Thereafter, between 850 and 1280 CE, Cholas emerged as the dominant dynasty. The early Chola period saw a greater emphasis on securing their geopolitical boundaries and less emphasis on architecture. In the 10th century, within the Chola empire emerged features such as the multifaceted columns with projecting square capitals. This, states George Michell, signaled the start of the new Chola style.[note 1] This South Indian style is most fully realized both in scale and detail in the Brihadeshvara temple built between 1003 and 1010 by the Chola king Rajaraja.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a historical town located in the Chola dynasty heartland of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated near Kumbakonam in the Thanjavur district. Gangaikonda Cholapuram was the capital of the Chola dynasty during the reign of Rajendra Chola I (1012–1044 CE). The town's name translates to "The town of the Chola who conquered the Ganges," signifying Rajendra Chola's victorious military campaign to the Ganges River in the north. The Brihadeshwara Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an outstanding example of Chola architecture. The temple is known for its towering vimana (temple tower) and intricate sculptures. Gangaikonda Cholapuram showcases the architectural and artistic achievements of the Chola dynasty. The temple complex reflects the grandeur and artistic prowess of the Chola rulers. The town was established by Rajendra Chola I after his victorious military expedition to the Ganges. The construction of the Brihadeshwara Temple was part of his efforts to establish a grand capital.Besides the main Brihadeshwara Temple, the complex includes various other smaller shrines and structures adorned with sculptures depicting mythological and historical themes. The Brihadeshwara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, along with the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, forms part of the "Great Living Chola Temples," recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The site is of archaeological importance, attracting historians, archaeologists, and tourists interested in India's rich cultural and historical heritage. Gangaikonda Cholapuram is well-connected by road and can be reached from cities like Kumbakonam and Thanjavur. The town's historical significance and architectural marvels make it a popular destination for heritage enthusiasts.​

<p><p><p>Venni Karumbeshwarar Temple is an ancient Shiva temple that is located in a village called, Kovil Venni that is near Needaamangalam of Thiruvarur District. The historical name of the place is Tiruvenni. This temple is one of the Paadal Petra Sthalam in the South Side of Cauvery (Chozha Naadu) where Siva appears as a bunch of sugarcane stems tied together. The Lingam at this temple appears like a bunch of sugarcane stems tied together. It is said that this place was once covered by sugarcane (Karumbu) and Venni trees. Hence the Lord is known as Venni Karumbeshwarar. Goddess Parvathi is called by the name Soundara Nayagi. Worshipping Siva here gives one all the sweetness of His grace, and so He is also called Rasapureeswarar (Rasa is extract, in this case of the sugarcane). In olden times, places were primarily identified by the temple that was there, and so this place began to be called Venniyur, which later became Koil Venni. This place is also the birthplace of Vennikuyathiar, the Sangam poet who is one of the authors of the Purananuru in Sangam literature. </p><p><strong></p> ⏰ Session Open Hours Morning 8:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m Evening 5:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m