Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple Ariyalur
History of Arulmigu Peruvudaiyar Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple
The Arulmigu Peruvudaiyar Temple, located in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Tamil Nadu, is a magnificent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built by the Chola emperor Rajendra I (son of King Rajaraja Cholan, built a temple of Brihadeeswarar at Tanjore), it was completed in 1035 CE as part of his new capital city, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, established to commemorate his victorious military campaign that reached the Ganges River in northern India.
The name "Gangaikonda Cholapuram" translates to "the city of the Chola who conquered the Ganga," reflecting this triumph.
This temple is a stellar example of Tamilian / Tamil architecture and is often compared to the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, constructed earlier by Rajendra’s father, Rajaraja I. While slightly smaller than its Thanjavur counterpart, the Arulmigu Peruvudaiyar Temple is renowned for its refined design and exceptional sculptural quality. Its main tower (vimana) rises to about 55 meters (180 feet), featuring a curvilinear contour that lends it a graceful, elegant appearance. The temple houses one of the largest Shiva Lingams in South India, standing approximately 13.5 feet tall, and is accompanied by a massive Nandi (the sacred bull) statue facing the sanctum.
The temple complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Great Living Chola Temples," alongside the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram. It showcases intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various Hindu deities, including Vishnu, Durga, and Surya, alongside exquisite representations of Chola art and culture. The layout follows traditional Tamil Vastu and Agama principles, with a square plan, multiple mandapas (halls), and a spacious courtyard.
Historically, Gangaikonda Cholapuram served as the Chola capital for about 250 years, from 1025 CE until the decline of the dynasty in the late 13th century. While much of the city, including the royal palace, has been lost to time, the temple remains a living testament to the Chola dynasty’s architectural prowess and cultural legacy. It continues to be an active place of worship, with festivals like Maha Shivaratri and the Aadi Thiruvathirai—celebrating Rajendra Chola’s legacy—drawing devotees and visitors.
Located in the Ariyalur district, the temple is accessible from nearby cities like Trichy (approximately 120 km away) and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department. Its serene ambiance, historical significance, and artistic grandeur make it a must-visit site for those exploring Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple Architecture
- King Rajendra Cholan, son of King Rajaraja Cholan, built a temple of Brihadeeswarar at Gangaikonda Cholapuram in the form of a large temple in Tanjore to commemorate his conquest of the north.
- There are many beautiful sculptures here, including the dancing Ganesha, the lake with lion-headed entrance and the crowning of King Rajendra by Lord Paraman and Parvati.
- Also, during the reign of King Rajendra Cholan, the capital city was shifted from Tanjore to the Gangaikonda Cholapuram which gives this town more importance.
- The Shiva Lingam here has a circumference of 62 feet and a height of 13 feet 6 inches, carved in a single stone.
- Annabishekam is held for lord shiva on the occasion of Pournami in the month of Aippasi.
- Annabhishekam is special by cooking 2 thousand 500 kg of sweet rice.
- Besides decorating with nuts, fruits and spices, there is also a huge garland for Lord Shiva.
- This temple is one of the largest Shiva temples where Annabhishekam is held.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple Festivals
- Maasi Shivaratri
- Aippasi Pournami
- Panguni Thiruvizha
- Margazhi Thiruvathirai
- Aadi Thiruvathirai - 26th July - King Rajendra Cholan Birth Anniversary, Local Government Holiday.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple Timings
Morning: 6 AM to 12 PM
Evening: 4 PM to 8 PM
Best Time to Visit: Evening
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach GangaikondaCholapuram Temple
Train: 49 km from Kumbakonam Railway Station. 49.7km from Ariyalur Railway Station.
Bus: 45 km from Kumbakonam bus stand, lot of buses available from Kumbakonam.
Flight: 2 hours 3 min from Trichy International Airport. Devotees can get cabs and buses
from Trichy airport frequently.
Where to Stay in Gangaikonda Cholapuram
People visiting this temple can stay in decent hotels at Kumbakonam, Mayiladuthurai and Tanjore.
Nearby Tourist and Historical Places
- Sri Kaliyuga Varatharaja Perumal Temple
- Thirumanur
- Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary
- Elakurichi Adaikala Madha Shrine
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple Address
Village Located Nearby
Jayankondam,
Ariyalur District,
Tamil Nadu - 612901
Google Map Direction: https://goo.gl/maps/jrzuwvqogqDjcYwb7
Contact Phone Number: +91 97513 41108
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple Photos
Tourist Places in Ariyalur District
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple | Temples in Ariyalur District
Ariyalur District | Ariyalur Districts Hospitals | Ariyalur District Cinema Theatres | Ariyalur District Hotels