India is home to many ancient temples, each with its own rich history. One such temple is the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, which is among the oldest and most significant temples in the country. This majestic temple was constructed during the reign of the Chola Empire, with Raja Raja Chola I overseeing its construction in the 11th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Brihadeeswarar Temple continues to be a popular destination, drawing millions of devotees who come to seek blessings and participate in Darshan.
Located in the heart of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, it stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient India. Despite its fame, many people are unaware of the Brihadeeswarar Temple Timings.
Brihadeeswarar Temple Timings
The Brihadeeswarar Temple follows a regular schedule, welcoming devotees at specific times throughout the day. Here are the detailed visiting hours for your convenience:
| Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | 12:30 PM |
| 4:00 PM | 8:30 PM |
The temple opens early in the morning at 6:00 AM, allowing visitors to begin their spiritual journey. After a midday break, it reopens at 4:00 PM and remains open until 8:30 PM, giving devotees ample time to visit and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Make sure to plan your visit around these timings for a smooth experience.
Daily Pooja Timings of Brihadeeswarar Temple
The Brihadeeswarar Temple follows a daily schedule for rituals and poojas dedicated to Lord Shiva. These sacred rituals take place throughout the day, starting in the morning and concluding in the evening. Here’s a breakdown of the daily pooja timings:
| Pooja/Event | Time | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Palabhishekam | 8:30 AM | The first ritual of the day begins with Palabhishekam. |
| Vucha Kalai Pooja | 12:00 PM | Midday pooja performed for Lord Shiva. |
| Arthajamam | 8:30 PM | The final pooja of the day to end the temple rituals. |
| Darshan | 30-45 minutes | Devotees can have Darshan during this time. |
| Abhishekam | Annually (Thai Masam) | Special Abhishekam held once a year during Thai Masam. |
| Naivedyam | Throughout the day | Various types of rice offerings are provided. |
Brihadeeswarar Temple Abhishekam Pooja Charges
At the Brihadeeswarar Temple, the Abhishekam Pooja is an important ritual performed to honor the deities. Below is a list of the different types of Abhishekam Poojas available at the temple, along with their respective charges:
| Pooja Type | Charges (INR) |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Abhishekam to Lord Brihadeeshwarar | ₹2,500 |
| Special Abhishekam to Lord Brihadeeshwarar | ₹5,000 |
| Ordinary Abhishekam to Divine Mother Brahan Nayaki | ₹1,500 |
| Special Abhishekam to Divine Mother Brahan Nayaki | ₹2,500 |
| Abhishekam to Lord Vigneshwarar | ₹750 |
| Abhishekam to Lord Subramanyar | ₹750 |
| Abhishekam to Sri Varahi Amman | ₹1,250 |
| Abhishekam to Sri Nandikeswarar (including Pradosham) | ₹6,500 |
Note: Before visiting the temple for Abhishekam, we recommend checking the Darshan timings. You can also book a slot for a live Darshan by visiting the official temple website at www.thanjavur.nic.in.
How to Reach Brihadeeswarar Temple
There are several convenient ways to reach the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple, depending on your location. Here are the main travel options:
| Mode of Travel | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | The nearest airport to the temple is Tiruchirapalli International Airport, which is located 61 km away. From there, it takes about 1 hour to reach the temple by road. |
| By Train | If you’re traveling by train, you can take a direct train from Chennai to Thanjavur, which is well connected. |
| By Road | If you prefer to drive, the temple is 382 km away from Chennai by road. Another convenient option is to travel from Kumbakonam, as it provides easy road access to the temple. |
These options ensure that visitors from various parts of the country can easily visit the temple, making it accessible to everyone regardless of their mode of travel.
Brihadeeswarar Temple History
Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil or Rajarajeswaram, is a historic and magnificent temple located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Built in the 11th century by the great Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s one of the largest and most important temples in India, celebrated not only for its religious significance but also for its architectural brilliance.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Brihadeeswarar Temple is that, at noon, it does not cast a shadow on the ground, which adds to its mystical allure. This architectural wonder is a true reflection of the skills and vision of Raja Raja Chola I. Constructed using 1,30,000 tons of granite, a material that is notoriously difficult to carve, the temple stands as a testament to the engineering marvels of the Chola empire. The structure was so impressive that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The temple’s 216-foot tower, the largest in the world, is a striking feature of its skyline. At the top of the tower, there is a single stone that weighs an incredible 80 tons. The grand Nandi statue, located at the temple’s entrance, is another awe-inspiring sight. This massive statue stands 16 feet long and 13 feet tall, welcoming all visitors.
Brihadeeswarar Temple is not just a religious site but also a symbol of South Indian architecture, built with 1,30,000 tons of granite stones. Its cultural significance is so great that on April 1st, 1954, the Reserve Bank of India issued the first-ever 1000-rupee note, featuring the temple, marking its importance in Indian heritage.
Nearby Temples to Visit Around Thanjavur Brihadeeswarar
In addition to the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, there are several other temples and cultural landmarks worth exploring in the area. These sites offer a deeper insight into the rich history, culture, and spiritual heritage of the region. Here’s a list of nearby temples and notable places you can visit:
| Temple / Landmark | Description |
|---|---|
| Rajarajan Mani Mandapam | A memorial dedicated to the great Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I. |
| The Serfoji Sarasvati Mahal Library | A historic library with a rare collection of manuscripts and ancient texts. |
| Swami Malai Temple | A revered temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, situated on a hilltop. |
| Thanjavur Royal Palace & Art Gallery | A beautiful royal palace with a stunning art gallery showcasing Chola art. |
| Thiruvanajozhi Temple | A sacred temple known for its tranquil atmosphere and divine presence. |
| Bangaru Kamakshi Temple | A well-known temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, with beautiful architecture. |
| Thiruvalanchuzhi | An ancient temple famous for its connection to Lord Shiva. |
| Sree Mulai Anjaneya Temple | A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its spiritual significance. |
| Ramaswamy Temple | A temple dedicated to Lord Rama, located in a peaceful area. |
| Sukkiran Temple | A temple dedicated to Lord Sukran, offering devotees a serene experience. |
| Schwartz Church | A historic church with beautiful architecture and a peaceful environment. |
| Chandra Sthalam Thingalur Temple | A temple dedicated to Lord Chandra (Moon), one of the nine Navagraha temples. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Brihadeeswarar Temple
Q1: What are the visiting hours of Brihadeeswarar Temple?
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM in the morning and from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM in the evening.
Q2: What are the daily pooja timings at Brihadeeswarar Temple?
The main poojas are:
- Palabhishekam: 8:30 AM
- Vucha Kalai Pooja: 12:00 PM
- Arthajamam: 8:30 PM
Q3: How much does the Abhishekam Pooja cost at Brihadeeswarar Temple?
Charges for different Abhishekam poojas range from ₹750 to ₹6,500 depending on the type of pooja.
Q4: How can I reach Brihadeeswarar Temple?
The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (61 km). The temple is also well-connected by road and train from Chennai.
Q5: What is the history of Brihadeeswarar Temple?
Built by Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning architecture, including the 216-foot tower.
Q6: Are there any other temples to visit near Brihadeeswarar Temple?
Yes, nearby temples include Swami Malai Temple, Thiruvanajozhi Temple, and the Ramaswamy Temple, among others.