DHARASURAM TEMPLE

DHARASURAM TEMPLE


UNLISTED WONDER OF THE WORLD:

Darasuram or Dharasuram is a panchayat town located 3 kilometres from Kumbakonam in Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu, India.[1] According to the 2001 census, the town had a population of 13,027. The town is known for the Airavateswara temple constructed by the Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century CE. The temple is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage monument

This temple is a storehouse of art and architecture. The vimana is 85 feet high. The front mandapam itself is in the form of a huge chariot drawn by horses. The temple has some exquisite stone carvings. The main deity's consort Periya Nayaki Amman temple is situated adjacent to Airavateshwarar temple.

Periya Nayaki Amman temple Airavateshwarar temple gopuram The Great Living Chola Temples. (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) at Thanjavur, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram were built by the Cholas between the 10th and 12th centuries CE and have a lot of similarities.

Attractions In Dharasuram:

Airavatesvara Temple is one of the principal attractions of Darasuram and attracts a lot of devotees throughout the year. As the legend goes, it is here that Airavata, the white elephant of the king of devas, worshipped Lord Shiva. Airavata worshipped Lord Shiva to be free from a curse by Sage Durvasa. Lord Yama, the Hindu god of death, is also believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple.