Historic temple

 Location: Jayankondam in Ariyalur district,          Tamilnadu.

Built by: Rajendra Chola 1

Built in: 11th century.

The Brihadeshwara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram is  one of the largest temples of south India. 

Only a portion of the great temple remains now. The stones from portions were taken to build the Lower Anaicut across the Kollidam. 

It is part of the UNESCO heritage site. The temple   was constructed by Rajendra Chola I . The temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram was constructed to celebrate the victorious march of Rajendra Chola I, up to the Ganga river in eastern India. 

The vimana of the Brihadeshwara Temple towers to a height of 55m.

 The visitors at the temple complex are welcomed by a huge statue of Nandi Bull, which faces the temple.

 The front portion of the temple is divided with the Ardha-mandapam and the Maha-mandapam

The walls of the main temple and those of the surrounding minor temples are richly decorated with the finest sculptures