Brihadeeswarar Temple

Brihadeeswarar Temple: A Grand Testament to Chola Art and Divinity

The Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as Rajarajeshwaram or Peruvudaiyar Kovil, is a majestic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It stands as a magnificent example of Chola architecture, artistry, and religious devotion. A visit offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of South India.

Expectations for Pilgrims

Sacred Offerings: Blessings from Lord Shiva

Prasad at Brihadeeswarar Temple includes traditional South Indian sweets, fruits, and sacred ash (vibhuti), offered to Lord Shiva and distributed to devotees as a symbol of blessings and divine grace.

Prasad / Prasadam :

Note : Prasad is generally available after specific puja ceremonies and can be obtained from designated counters within the temple complex. Local vendors around the temple may also offer prasad items.

What to Offer: Sacred Contributions to the Divine

Devotees visiting Brihadeeswarar Temple can offer flowers, fruits, incense sticks, and other traditional items to express their devotion and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. These offerings are a way to connect with the divine energy and express gratitude.

Devotee's Offerings

Offerings are typically made at the main sanctum. Temple priests can guide you on the proper way to present your offerings and perform specific rituals.

Essential Experiences: Immerse in Thanjavur's Spirituality

Activities:

Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Deepening Your Connection

Brihadeeswarar Temple hosts various daily and special pujas (prayer ceremonies) to honor Lord Shiva. These rituals involve chanting, hymns, and offerings, creating a powerful spiritual atmosphere.

Attending Pujas:

Non Attending Pujas:

You can participate in pujas by purchasing tickets at the temple counter or arranging them through local priests. Special pujas for specific occasions may require prior booking.

Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: Brihadeeswarar's Enduring Legacy

The Brihadeeswarar Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its exceptional architecture and historical significance. It provides invaluable insights into the Chola dynasty's achievements in art, engineering, and governance.

Royal Construction:

The temple was commissioned by the Chola emperor Raja Raja I and completed in 1010 AD. It served as a symbol of the Chola empire's power, wealth, and devotion to Lord Shiva.

Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon

Brihadeeswarar Temple is one of the largest and most important Hindu temples in India. It stands as a testament to the Chola dynasty's artistic and architectural prowess and continues to be a significant place of worship and cultural heritage.

Key Aspects:

• A Symbol of Chola Power The temple served as a powerful symbol of the Chola empire's wealth, influence, and devotion to Lord Shiva.

Opening Hours

Sunday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 – 8:30 PM
Monday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 – 8:30 PM
Tuesday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 – 8:30 PM
Wednesday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 – 8:30 PM
Thursday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 – 8:30 PM
Friday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 – 8:30 PM
Saturday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 – 8:30 PM

User Review

Total Reviews : 33760

• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Dharshan Bapu
  Review Time : a month ago
  Review : This is a beautiful example of architecture and loved this divine place a lot. Choose a good time in the evenings as soon as the temple opens like 4:30pm or so or go early in the morning to witness the fantastic view. After 10am the floor will get very hot depending on the day so choose a good time to visit. Temple is nothing less than extraordinary and will recommend every one to pay a visit if you are in the area or make time for it. Loved the huge gopuram and Lord Shiva’s magic divine idol.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Atul S
  Review Time : 3 weeks ago
  Review : As you enter this majestic temple, you will be mesmerised by the enormity and grandeur of this architecture. It makes you wonder the kind of skills and expertise that we possessed centuries ago. It also makes you wonder how can our rich heritage be so neglected in the modern world. It also makes you wonder how can a structure that is tilt be called as one of the wonders of the world and this magnificent architecture unknown to the world.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Tarun Gupta
  Review Time : a month ago
  Review : The temple has the amazing architecture throughout. It's Magnificent. Ancestors had excellent engineers and architects, respects to them. Everyone must visit once in a lifetime. Tamil Nadu has amazing temples.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Aritra Biswas
  Review Time : 2 months ago
  Review : Majestic example of Chola temple architecture. Everything about this place is a statement of royal grandeur. Thanks to the large-scale restoration work done, the temple still holds the viewer spellbound. During the evening, the lights placed at specific points illuminate the complex beautifully. No surprise then that this place attracts a lot of tourists. One can easily spend a couple of hours here.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Hemanth Shriyan
  Review Time : a week ago
  Review : This Chola masterpiece is a beautiful work of fine craftsmanship and a great milestone in Chola kingdoms history. It is unbelievable that this masterpiece is standing intact since 1000 years and mesmerising devotees and pilgrims. This is my 3rd visit to this great structure in the historic city of Thanjavur and I am mesmerised each time by the grandeur of this temple. Do take a look at this art work from all angles.. soak in its beauty from all of its entrance and every orifice. Pay a visit to its inner sanctum and have the daeshan of Lord Shiva aka Brihadeeswaran. Better to visit around 4.30 so that you can see it's beauty both in day light as well as artificial lights in the evening. One can keep chappals and do some shopping near the chappal stand of the Temple after 2nd Gopuram. Photography is allowed everywhere except the inner sanctum. People from all religions and nationalities are allowed to visit the temple and also to take the Darshan at the inner sanctum.