The Brihadeeswara Temple, also popularly known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, stands as a grand testament to South India’s architectural, spiritual, and cultural legacy. Located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, this majestic shrine was constructed by the mighty Chola Emperor Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century and remains one of the most awe-inspiring examples of Dravidian architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Great Living Chola Temples,” it is devoted to Lord Shiva, attracting millions of devotees every year.
About Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Brihadeeswara Temple (Peruvudaiyar Kovil) |
| Location | Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Founder | Raja Raja Chola I |
| Construction Year | 1010 AD |
| Deity | Lord Shiva |
| Dynasty | Chola Dynasty |
| Architectural Style | Dravidian Architecture |
| UNESCO Recognition | Great Living Chola Temples |
| Main Tower (Vimana) | 66 meters (216 feet) tall |
| Nandi Statue | 6 meters long, carved from a single stone |
| Material Used | Granite |
One fascinating architectural marvel here is that the temple casts no shadow at noon, an astounding feat considering its massive scale.
Temple Timings 2025
Planning your visit requires awareness of darshan and pooja schedules. Here’s a complete breakdown for a spiritually enriching trip:
Daily Temple Opening & Closing Hours
| Session | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 6:00 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Evening | 4:00 PM | 8:30 PM |
| Overall Timing | 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM (Daily) |
Pooja & Aarti Schedule (Daily Rituals)
Ritual offerings play a significant role in the spiritual experience of this sacred temple. Below are the daily pooja timings:
| Pooja / Aarti | Time |
|---|---|
| Palabhishekam | 8:30 AM |
| Vucha Kalai Pooja | 12:00 PM |
| Sai Rakchay Pooja | 6:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 8:30 PM |
Each pooja is rooted in ancient tradition and enhances the spiritual energy of the temple space. Visitors are encouraged to attend and immerse themselves in these divine rituals.
Temple Contact Information
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Brihadeeswara Temple (Peruvudaiyar Kovil) |
| Address | South Main Street, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur – 613001, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Phone Number | +91 4362 271799 |
| Fax | 04362 235536 |
| Official Website | brihadeeswaratemple.com |
Best Time to Visit Brihadeeswara Temple
The ideal time to plan a visit is between October and March, when the weather is more pleasant and comfortable for darshan and temple exploration. The Krithika festival during Kartika month is a spiritually powerful period for devotees and also offers a festive atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Brihadeeswara Temple is not just a pilgrimage but a journey through the grandeur of the Chola dynasty, stunning stone carvings, and spiritual tranquility. Whether you’re a history lover, spiritual seeker, or cultural explorer, this temple promises an unforgettable experience of Tamil heritage and divine energy. Make sure to align your travel with the darshan and pooja timings for a seamless visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the Brihadeeswara Temple opening hours in 2025?
The temple opens daily at 6:00 AM and closes by 8:30 PM.
Q: When is the best time to visit the Brihadeeswara Temple?
October to March is ideal due to pleasant weather and festival celebrations.
Q: Are there specific timings for pooja and aarti at the temple?
Yes, poojas are held at 8:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 8:30 PM every day.
Q: Is there any entry fee for darshan?
No, darshan at the Brihadeeswara Temple is free for all visitors.
Q: Can I attend all the poojas in a single visit?
Yes, if you plan your visit from morning to evening, you can witness all the scheduled poojas.