Temple About
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple is a significant Hindu temple built to honor Lord Shiva. It was established by Rajendra Chola I as a symbolic replica of the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur after his conquest of North India.
Temple Description
The temple showcases typical Dravidian architecture with towering vimanas, intricate sculptures, and beautifully carved walls. The central sanctum enshrines a massive Shiva Lingam, and the temple layout follows precise geometric and architectural principles from the Chola period.
Temple Speciality
One of the three Great Living Chola Temples (UNESCO Heritage Site)
Features a monolithic Nandi and tall granite vimana
Symbolizes Chola imperialism and artistic achievement
Rich sculptural work representing mythological stories
Temple Address
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple,Jayankondam Taluk, Ariyalur District,Tamil Nadu – 612901, India. Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
11.2003° N, 79.4536° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Daily Shiva Pujas
Abhishekam
Special rituals during Maha Shivaratri, Pradosham
Annadanam on festival days
Traveling Facilities
Good connectivity via roadways and railways
Taxis, autos, and buses available from nearby towns
Adequate parking for private vehicles
Food Facilities
Limited eateries near temple
Better dining options at Jayankondam and Kumbakonam
Pilgrims can carry light snacks and water
Stay Facilities
No accommodations in the temple complex
Hotels and lodges available at Jayankondam, Kumbakonam, Chidambaram
Budget to mid-range options available
Nearby Railway Station
Kumbakonam (35 km)
Ariyalur (45 km)
Nearby Airport
Tiruchirapalli (TRZ) – 125 km
Chennai International Airport – 270 km
Nearby Bus Station
Jayankondam Bus Stand (10 km)
Bus Routes to Temple
From Kumbakonam, Chidambaram, Ariyalur via Jayankondam
Regular government and private buses available
Train Routes to Temple
Reach Kumbakonam or Ariyalur by train
Then proceed by taxi or bus to the temple
Air Ways to Temple
Fly to Tiruchirapalli Airport
Take cab/bus to Jayankondam → Temple
Or fly to Chennai → train to Ariyalur/Kumbakonam → road transport
Nearby Cities to Temple
Jayankondam – 10 km
Chidambaram – 42 km
Kumbakonam – 35 km
Ariyalur – 45 km
Thanjavur – 90 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places
Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur
Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram
Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram
Swamimalai Murugan Temple
Suryanar Koil, Kumbakonam
Gangaikondan Lake and Dam
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Ideal weather for sightseeing and temple visit
Shopping Famous For
Chola bronze sculptures
Traditional temple replicas and souvenirs
Handloom cotton sarees and crafts from nearby towns
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple is not just a spiritual retreat but a portal into Tamil Nadu’s glorious past. Its silent granite walls echo the power, artistry, and devotion of the Chola kings. Whether you're a devotee, history enthusiast, or architectural admirer, this temple offers a memorable journey through time. A visit here is both enlightening and inspiring, making it a must-see destination in South India.
