Trip to Visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara Temple from Pondicherry

Trip to Visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara Temple from Pondicherry

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
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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