Location
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Graha
UNESCO Heritage (UNESCO Heritage)
Deity
Sri Brihadeeswarar
Goddess
Periya Nayaki Amman
Timings
6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Best time
November – February, early morning light
District
Ariyalur
Address
Brihadeeswarar Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Ariyalur District, Tamil Nadu 621702
History
Rajendra Chola I built this capital temple after his victorious march to the Ganges, its curved vimanam softer than Thanjavur's.
Significance
Prized for its bronze-like stone sculpture and the lion-well that once held Ganges water.
Pariharam
Offer abhishekam at dawn and view the Chandesa Anugraha panel behind the sanctum.
Festivals
Maha Shivaratri
February – March · Night-long worship
Aadi Perukku
July – August · Water festival at the Cholagangam tank
Nearby stays & food
Jayam Lodge
Stay · 8 km · Basic rooms at Jayankondam
Chola Mess
Food · 7 km · Local meals near the highway