Loading Virtual Tour...
Access denied. Unable to load this virtual tour.
The Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur, built by Chola emperor Raja Raja I (1003–1010 CE), features a 66-metre vimana built entirely from granite without mortar — the tallest structure in India at the time of its construction. This UNESCO Great Living Chola Temple holds a Shivalingam over 8 metres tall and exceptional Chola-era frescoes rarely seen by visitors.
The shadow of the vimana does not fall on the ground at noon — an ancient astronomical achievement still debated by archaeologists. The Nandi mandapam in front of the sanctum houses one of the largest Nandi sculptures in India.
6:00 AM–12:30 PM and 4:00 PM–8:30 PM daily. Entry free. Camera fee ₹50. Ask ASI office about access to the inner Chola frescoes.
Trains from Chennai (6 hrs), Trichy (1 hr), Madurai (2.5 hrs). Nearest airport: Tiruchirappalli International (TRZ), 56 km.