Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Tamil Nadu
Main God
Lord Shiva
Timings
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Gangaikonda Cholapuram
Type
REGIONAL
Approach the temple and observe the magnificent 55-meter vimana (tower), designed to surpass the Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur. Note the beautiful curvature of the sikhara.
Enter the main sanctum to see the massive Shiva lingam, similar in scale to the Thanjavur temple. The Nandi (bull) facing the sanctum is one of the largest in South India.
Walk around the outer walls to see the remarkable sculptures, including the famous Chandikesvara panel and the Saraswati statue — considered among the finest in all of Indian art.
Visit the small archaeological museum nearby (if open) to see recovered Chola bronzes and artifacts from the site.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu 612901
By Bus
TNSTC buses from Kumbakonam (1 hr), Chidambaram (1 hr), and Trichy (2.5 hrs). Limited bus services; hiring a taxi from Kumbakonam is recommended.
By Air
Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) — 95 km
By Rail
Ariyalur Railway Station — 30 km; Kumbakonam Railway Station — 35 km
Local Transport
Limited local transport. Best reached by hired taxi or auto from Kumbakonam or Chidambaram.
