from 72 reviews
8 hrs
Up to 5 days
10 people
English
Discover the grandeur of Chola architecture with “Chola Legacy: A Journey Through Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Darasuram & Thanjavur.” Begin at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, renowned for its geometric precision and monumental design. Continue to the Darasuram Temple, famous for its chariot-shaped mandapam and exquisite stone carvings. Explore the majestic Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, a masterpiece of Chola engineering. Conclude with a visit to the Thanjavur Palace, which houses an impressive art gallery and historical manuscripts, offering a deep dive into the cultural and architectural splendor of the Chola dynasty.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Discount on 2-person group | 2 | 2 | $ 256.00 |
| 2 | Discount on 3-person group | 3 | 3 | $ 491.00 |
| 3 | Discount on 4-person group | 4 | 4 | $ 747.00 |
| 4 | Discount on 5-person group | 5 | 5 | $ 956.00 |
| 5 | Discount on 6-person group | 6 | 6 | $ 1,175.00 |
| 6 | Discount on 7-person group | 7 | 7 | $ 1,431.00 |
| 7 | Discount on 8-person group | 8 | 8 | $ 1,687.00 |
| 8 | Discount on 9-person group | 9 | 9 | $ 1,897.00 |
| 9 | Discount on 10-person group | 10 | 10 | $ 2,108.00 |
Pick up from your hotel in Trichy at 7:30 AM for a full-day excursion to visit The Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Darasuram, and Thanjavur (140 kms / 3 hrs approx one way). These UNESCO World Heritage Sites, built by the Cholas between the 10th and 12th centuries CE, are celebrated for their architectural splendor and historical significance.
First stop at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, where the grand temple built by Rajendra Chola I stands as a testament to the Chola architectural genius. This temple, constructed in the 11th century, features a unique square plan and intricate geometric symmetry. The central sanctum, or garbha griha, is surrounded by intricately carved mandapas such as the Nandi Mandapa, Alankar Mandapa, and Maha Mandapa. The temple’s high tower and elaborate carvings reflect the grandeur of the Chola dynasty and its mastery of temple design.
Second stop at Darasuram Temple, also known as the Airavatesvara Temple. This 12th-century temple, commissioned by Rajaraja Chola II, is renowned for its towering vimana (central spire) and intricately carved stone pillars. The temple's front mandapam is designed as a massive chariot drawn by stone horses, symbolizing the divine chariot of Shiva. The temple complex features a variety of exquisite carvings depicting Hindu mythology and offers a stunning example of Chola art and architecture. The adjacent Periya Nayaki Amman temple adds to the temple’s cultural and spiritual significance.
Third stop at Thanjavur to visit the Brihadeshwara Temple and Fort. Built by Rajaraja Chola I in the 10th century, this temple is renowned for its massive dome (vimana) and its intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities and mythological scenes. The temple's central courtyard features a massive statue of Nandi, the bull mount of Shiva, carved from a single block of granite. The Thanjavur Palace, adjacent to the temple, houses an art gallery showcasing Chola-era bronze sculptures and a library with over 30,000 manuscripts, including rare palm leaf manuscripts in Indian and European languages.
Additional sightseeing includes a visit to the Chola-era Bronze Museum in Thanjavur, located within the palace complex. This museum displays a remarkable collection of bronze sculptures, including the famous Nataraja (dancing Shiva) and various deities, illustrating the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic achievements of the Chola period. The museum provides valuable insights into the religious and cultural practices of the Chola Empire.
After sightseeing, drive back to Trichy and drop off at your hotel.
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