10 Amazing Facts About Brihadishwara Temple You Must Know
The Brihadishwara Temple, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is an architectural masterpiece built over 1,000 years ago. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple features a massive Linga in the sanctum sanctorum and is also known as the “Big Temple.” This historic site houses the second-largest Nandi idol in India, carved from a single stone and weighing approximately 25,000 kg. Every month, abhishekam (ritual bathing) is performed for the idol, drawing numerous devotees.
Constructed between 1004 and 1010 AD during the reign of the Chola king Raja Raja Chola I, the temple exemplifies the grandeur of Chola architecture. A total of 130,000 tons of granite was used in its construction, completed in just six years with the help of 12,000 elephants, 5,000 horses, and 50,000 workers. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as a testament to ancient engineering techniques, including interlocking stones without cement.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit the Brihadishwara Temple is between November and February when the weather in Thanjavur is cool and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the summer months (March to June) as the temperatures can soar, making exploration uncomfortable. The temple is especially lively during festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Natyanjali, which attract devotees and cultural enthusiasts from around the world.
How to Reach
Thanjavur is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible for travelers from across India.
- By Bus:
Thanjavur is easily reachable by Tamil Nadu State Transport buses and private buses from nearby cities like Trichy (56 km), Chennai (340 km), and Madurai (190 km). Regular buses run from these cities to Thanjavur. - By Train:
The Thanjavur Junction Railway Station is located about 2 km from the temple. It is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Madurai. Trains like the Rockfort Express and Cholan Express frequently operate to Thanjavur. - By Air:
The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (Trichy Airport), located about 60 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thanjavur. Chennai International Airport is another option for international travelers, about 340 km away.
Stay Options Near the Temple
Thanjavur offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxury hotels.
- Budget Options:
- Hotel Balaji Inn: Affordable rooms with basic amenities, located close to the temple.
- Gnanam Hotel: A popular choice for budget travelers, offering clean and comfortable rooms.
- Mid-Range Options:
- Hotel Oriental Towers: Located about 1 km from the temple, it provides good facilities at reasonable prices.
- Tanjore Hi Hotel: A boutique hotel blending modern comfort with heritage charm.
- Luxury Options:
- Svatma Thanjavur: A luxury heritage hotel offering exquisite dining and wellness experiences.
- Ideal River View Resort: Located slightly away from the city center, it offers serene views and premium facilities.
Architectural Highlights
The temple complex consists of three courtyards and multiple gopurams (tower gateways). The first entrance, the Maratha Gate, was built 300 years ago during the reign of Sarfoji, the last Maratha king of Thanjavur. This gate leads to the Kerala Thakan Gopuram, which commemorates the Chola kings’ victory over the Kerala rulers. The inner sanctum’s dome, weighing 80 tons, was constructed using an ingenious interlocking technique.
The temple walls are adorned with inscriptions in ancient Tamil script and vivid paintings depicting Puranic stories and the lives of Chola kings. The sculptures of Dvarapalakas (gatekeepers), carved from single stones, are a highlight. A total of 18 Dvarapalaka sculptures are distributed across nine locations in the temple.
Unique Features
Unlike other temples, the Brihadishwara Temple reverses the usual architectural pattern: the sanctum sanctorum is much larger than the entrance gopuram. The 216-foot-high central tower, built over 13 floors, casts a shadow that never touches the ground—a feature that adds to the temple’s mystique.
The temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to Varahi Amma, Ganesha, Subrahmanya Swamy, Chandikeshwara, and Parvati Devi. The South Verandah displays sculptures, ruined pillars, and an old cannon. The compound wall features hundreds of Nandi statues.
The Nandi Mandapam
The Nandi Mandapam houses a large Nandi installed by the Nayaka kings, replacing a smaller one placed by the Cholas. The Nandi is 5.94 meters long and 2.59 meters wide. The paintings on the ceiling of the Nandi Mandapam, created during the Maratha period, have remarkably survived the test of time due to their sheltered location.
Visiting the Temple
The temple is easily accessible, located next to the main road with parking available opposite the complex. It is open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Visitors are advised to allocate at least two hours to explore the temple thoroughly.
The temple’s sanctum houses the largest Shivalinga in India, standing 12 feet tall and weighing 12,000 kg. Witnessing this colossal Shivalinga being anointed is an unforgettable experience.
Read also: Incredible Gudimallam Oldest Shiva Linga History 2025: That Will Amaze You!
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
1.Dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore the temple thoroughly.
2.Wear comfortable footwear and carry water bottles.
3.Follow the temple decorum and avoid touching carvings or frescoes.
4.Don’t miss small shrines like Ganesha Mandir and Chandikeshwara Temple.
Conclusion
The Brihadishwara Temple is more than just a religious site; it is a repository of history, art, and architectural genius. From its intricate carvings and towering gopurams to the tales of devotion and craftsmanship embedded in its walls, this temple offers a profound connection to India’s glorious past. A visit to this marvel is not just a journey through time but a spiritual experience that leaves an indelible mark on every visitor.