Pondicherry Trip Overview
Airavatesvara Temple is a UNESCO world heritage site along with other Chola temples built between 10th to 12th century AD. Its unlike the Brihadeshwara and Gangaikonda Cholapuram temples is a smaller in size and wonderful work of art and architecture. It has lot of exquisite carving and was built associating the concept of Nitya Vinoda which means perpetual entertainment
The city of Gangaikondacholapuram was probably founded by Rajendra chola before his 17th year. Most of the Chola kings who succeeded Rajendra were crowned here. The Vimana with its recessed corners and upward movement presents a striking contrast to the straight-sided pyramidal tower of Thanjavur but with octagon shape of Dravidian architecture. As it rises to a height of 182 feet (55 m) and is shorter than the Thanjavur tower with larger plinth, it is often described as the feminine counterpart of the Thanjavur temple.
Additional Info
Duration: 10 to 12 hours
Starts: Pondicherry, India
Trip Category: Day Trips & Excursions >> Private Day Trips
Explore Pondicherry Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Pondicherry, Union Territory of Pondicherry, India
Airavatesvara Temple is a UNESCO world heritage site along with other Chola temples built between 10th to 12th century AD. Its unlike the Brihadeshwara and Gangaikonda Cholapuram temples is a smaller in size and wonderful work of art and architecture. It has lot of exquisite carving and was built associating the concept of Nitya Vinoda which means perpetual entertainment
The city of Gangaikondacholapuram was probably founded by Rajendra chola before his 17th year. Most of the Chola kings who succeeded Rajendra were crowned here. The Vimana with its recessed corners and upward movement presents a striking contrast to the straight-sided pyramidal tower of Thanjavur but with octagon shape of Dravidian architecture. As it rises to a height of 182 feet (55 m) and is shorter than the Thanjavur tower with larger plinth, it is often described as the feminine counterpart of the Thanjavur temple.
Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Airavatesvara Temple, Thanjavur Darasuram, Kumbakonam 612001 India
Discover dravidian grand architectural master pieces on this temple, You can find there are lot of columns and pillars towards the Sanctum supporting mandapams (grand hall) and many intricate carving which is well appreciated by many art lovers. Also temple consists of a sanctum without a circumambulatory path and axial mandapas front mandapa known in the inscriptions as Rajagambhiran tirumandapam, is unique as it was conceptualised as a chariot with wheels. The pillars of this mandapa are highly ornate elevation of all the units is elegant with sculptures dominating the architecture. The garden around the temple looks lovely It adds charm ambiance to the temple.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Cholapuram, Thanjavur India
Explore the Chola emperor Rajaraja I in order to celebrate his victory over the northern kingdoms. Rajendra Chola I erected the Gangaikonda Cholapuram as capital of Cholas together with Gangaikonda Choleswarar temple, to be the focal point for the Chola capitals. The Shiva lingam at Gangaikonda Choleswarar temple is taller when compared with the Shiva lingam present in the Thanjavur Big temple. Several other focus of this temple includes the monolithic expression of the Navagrahas in the form of chariot and also the sculptures of Gnanasaraswathi and Chandeswarar.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, East Car Street, Chidambaram Vijay Gems, 608001 India
Chidambaram Nataraja Temple (or) Thillai Nataraja Temple associated with specifically the element of space, The temple wall carvings display all the 108 karanas from the Natya Shastra by Bharata Muni, and these postures form a foundation of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance.
Duration: 1 hour
