UNESCO World Heritage Site. A masterpiece of Chola architecture with a 216-foot vimana (tower) — the tallest of its kind. The capstone weighing approximately 80 tons was raised without modern machinery.
Built by Raja Raja Chola I between 1003-1010 CE. Completed in just 7 years. Also called Rajarajeshwaram. Part of the "Great Living Chola Temples" UNESCO designation.
The 216-foot vimana is topped with an 80-ton granite capstone. The Nandi at the entrance is carved from a single rock (16 feet long). The temple's shadow never falls on the ground at noon. Remarkable structural engineering.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
216-foot vimana (tallest of its kind)
80-ton capstone
Nandi from single rock
Shadow engineering marvel
Maha Shivaratri
Thai Poosam
Raja Raja Cholan birthday celebrations
Open 6 AM–12:30 PM, 4 PM–8:30 PM. Located in Thanjavur city center. UNESCO World Heritage Site. No entry fee.
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