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Airavatesvara TemplePhoto: Wikipedia "Airavatesvara Temple" — CC-licensed via Wikimedia CommonsOpen Now

Airavateswara Temple

Darasuram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Lord Shiva
More in Tamil Nadu

Type

Hindu Temple

Deity

Lord Shiva

Pincode

612702

A UNESCO World Heritage Site (Great Living Chola Temples group) built by Raja Raja Chola II in the 12th century CE. Lord Airavateswara (Shiva worshipped by Airavata, Indra's white elephant) is enshrined here. The temple's 'chariot steps' carved to look like a stone chariot and the extraordinary sculptures of Yama, the god of death, are extraordinary.

History & Significance

History

Built by Raja Raja Chola II (1146–1173 CE), Airavateswara is the smallest of the three Great Living Chola Temples (the others being Brihadeeswarar Thanjavur and Gangaikondacholapuram) — but is considered the most intricately detailed. The temple's 'musical steps' (steps that emit musical tones when struck) are a remarkable feature.

Plan Your Circuit

Nearby Temples

Closest temples by distance — worth combining into the same trip.

Swamimalai Murugan Temple

The fourth Arupadaiveedu, where Murugan taught the Pranava Mantra (Om) to his own father Shiva. The deity here is Swaminatha — Murugan as the teacher of his parent. Located near Kumbakonam, easily combined with the Navagraha temple circuit.

Photo: Wikipedia article "Swaminatha Swamy Temple" — CC-licensed via Wikimedia Commons

Swamimalai Murugan Temple

Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu3 km
Lord Subramanya
Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

The principal Shiva temple of Kumbakonam and one of the most important in Tamil Nadu. Lord Kumbeswarar (Shiva who formed the universe from a 'kumba'/pot of nectar) is worshipped here. During the rare Mahamaham festival (once in 12 years), lakhs bathe in the sacred Mahamaham tank adjacent to the temple — the largest religious gathering in Tamil Nadu.

Photo: Wikipedia article "Adi Kumbeswarar Temple" — CC-licensed via Wikimedia Commons

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu3 km
Lord Shiva

Shiva

The Rahu (ascending lunar node) Navagraha temple near Kumbakonam, where the presiding deity is Naganatha Swamy (Shiva). Uniquely, Rahu is said to turn white during his worship here — an observed natural phenomenon. The main lingam glows with a mysterious blue light on Rahu worship days. One of the most powerful Navagraha temples.

Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple

Thirunageswaram, Tamil Nadu3 km
Lord Shiva

Shiva

Jupiter (Guru) Navagraha temple. The Guru (Jupiter) Navagraha temple at Azhagaputhur, dedicated to Brihaspati — worshipping here is believed to enhance wisdom, education and prosperity.

Azhagaputhur Guru Navasakthi Temple

Azhagaputhur, Tamil Nadu3 km
Lord Shiva