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The Peruvudaiyar Temple is also known as the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the UNESCO World Heritage Site holds grandeur, intricate work of Dravidian architecture, and historical importance. Built-in the 11th century by Chola king Raja Raja Chola I, this old temple is the epitome of Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage and the Chola dynasty’s architectural abilities. Its towering vimana, huge Nandi statue, and exquisite sculptures attract pilgrims, tourists, and enthusiasts of history alike.
Quick Facts
Peruvudaiyar Temple Address: Peruvudaiyar Kovil, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007, India
Peruvudaiyar Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fees: None
How To Reach: By bus, train, taxi, and flight
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Thanjavur Junction
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Location
Photo: Aravind View / Unsplash
The temple, also known as Brihadeeswarar Temple, is located on the southern side of the Cauvery River in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The temple is off Grand Anicut Road (SH 22) and can be reached through Thanjavur-Pudukkottai Road.
How To Reach
Photo: Nileshantony92 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Tiruchirapalli International Airport, about 56 km from Thanjavur, is the nearest airport. From there, taxi and bus service to reach the temple.
By Train: Thanjavur railway station is merely 3 km away from the temple. After reaching the temple, you can get there by car, taxi, etc.
By Road: The buses are operated regularly from Chennai, Madurai, and other cities. The nearest bus stand is only 1 km from the temple. You can drive down on NH38 to the route for people travelling down in a car.
Things To Do
1. Engage In Rituals And Festivals
Photo: Yan Krukau / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Cultural festivals such as the Brahan Natyanjali, held yearly during Mahashivratri in February, are hosted in the temple. The festival includes classical Indian dance and attracts the best artists for performances lasting 10 days. One of the grandest festivals is the temple car festival, wherein the ceremonial temple car goes out in procession, garnering huge crowds.
2. Explore The Architecture
Photo: Vengolis / Wikimedia Commons
The architectural grandeur of temple is awe-inspiring and represents the design of the Dravidian style as well as the skilled artistry of Chola-era craftsmanship. The temple rests upon a 5-meter base, with a massive 2-meter-high Nandi statue nearby, measuring 6 meters long and weighing 20 tons, the largest Nandi sculpture in India. The primary deity measures 3.7 meters tall in the sanctum, which stands at 240 by 125 meters.
Places To Visit Around Peruvudaiyar Temple
1. Thanjavur Palace And Saraswathi Mahal Library
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons
The Nayaks initially built the beautiful ancient historical palace, which the Marathas later expanded to completion. It indicates the glory in which the Thanjavur Royal Family lived, consisting of a mix of architecture characteristic of the Dravidians and the Maratha cultures. The palace includes the Saraswathi Mahal Library, famous for its collection of manuscripts, ancient texts, and literary works from nearly every culture. Its galleries are decorated with portraits, detailed carvings, and kingly relics that tell the heritage of Thanjavur in which the visitor can stray.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Distance From Peruvudaiyar Temple: 1 km
2. Sivaganga Park
Photo: Ilasun / Wikimedia Commons
Very near the heart of Thanjavur, Sivaganga Park is a soothing, cool green abode for many local people and tourists as well. With a scenic lake and boating facility besides children’s
playgrounds and lovely paths for walks, you can spend quality time here. This is a great place
to take it easy and relax with family-friendly activities in an atmosphere that is serene for people
who want to take some time off after visiting other temples and historical sites.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Distance From Peruvudaiyar Temple: 2 km
3. Thiruvaiyaru Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
This is another important holy shrine of Lord Shiva, also known as the Aiyarappar temple in Thanjavur. This place is connected with the great saint and composer Thyagaraja, and every year, an annual music festival in the saint’s name is performed within the temple premises. People are drawn to visit this holy shrine because of its peaceful atmosphere, extensive courtyard, and higher cultural significance, which brings the culture of Tamil Nadu into existence spiritually and musically before one’s eyes.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From Peruvudaiyar Temple: 13 km
4. Airavatesvara Temple
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
One of Tamil Nadu’s wonders is the Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Darasuram. This temple was the work of Raja Raja Chola II, built during the 12th century. The intricate carvings and gigantic stone pillars that form this temple are famously known as the “musical steps.” It forms an integral part of the series “Great Living Chola Temples,” holding close to its art and history. Its intricate sculptures reveal the depth of the Chola artist and innovator in architecture.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From Peruvudaiyar Temple: 35 km
5. Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple
Photo: Nandhinikandhasamy / Wikimedia Commons
Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple is among the most impressive Chola marvels, dedicated solely to Lord Shiva by the great Rajendra Chola I. The primary feature of this temple is its artistic carvings and grandeur, which stand testimony to the excellence the Cholas had in their architectural skills. Ornate sculptures, high gopurams, and impressive halls celebrate Chola culture and craftsmanship. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the capital of the Chola Empire for over 250 years.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From Peruvudaiyar Temple: 70 km
Where To Stay
Photo: Kurt Kaiser / Wikimedia Commons
Various accommodations abound around the temple to match any budget and taste. Nestled among the affordable options is the comfortable Hotel Gnanam, which has all the necessary modern facilities and is situated close to the temple, thus making it a very popular place among visitors. For the high-end offering, Svatma provides culture along with comfort, where the guests can stay in a decor that befits the ancient era, enjoy elite facilities, and have personal care. For the budget-conscious traveller who likes comfort with easy access to the major attractions of Thanjavur Hotel, Parisutham and Sangam Hotel are the options.
What To Eat
Photo: KARTY JazZ / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
To taste the authentic flavour of Tamil Nadu, there is Sree Ariya Bhavan in Thanjavur with its traditional vegetarian meal, flavour dosas, idlis, sambhar, and Thanjavur’s signature Thavala Adai. Its ambience, along with freshly prepared meals, makes this place popular for locals and tourists alike. Since the restaurant at Hotel Gnanam serves both South Indian and continental dishes, one can enjoy a wide array of dishes for palates from every corner of the world.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Ramakrishnan Nataraj / Unsplash
The temple should be visited between November and February during the winter. The region experiences scorching summer heat and heavy monsoon rains, which renders it unsuitable for the visit. This period coincides with many festivals and is a good opportunity for tourists to see the temple in its vibrant celebrative and cultural events.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The per-person budget can be calculated for the trip to the temple around ₹2,500 to ₹10,000. Budget accommodation is available in choices of stays that vary from local stays to comfortable hotels and premium options.
The Peruvudaiyar temple speaks much about history, culture, and spirituality and is a live testimony to the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu. Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, the temple visit is a rewarding experience for understanding the rich cultural legacy of India. Plan a trip with TripXL and get transported into the times of the Chola Dynasty.
Cover Photo: Avin CP / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
