Airavatesvara Temple

Airavatesvara Temple is a Hindu temple in Darasuram, Thanjavur district in India, known for its carved stone sculptures. The walls display religious scenes in detailed reliefs, while several smaller shrines are arranged around the main temple structure.

Raja Raja II commissioned the temple in 1166 during the Chola dynasty, when stone carving reached a high point. Construction followed the great temple projects in Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram from earlier generations.

The temple takes its name from Airavata, the white elephant of the deity Indra, who according to legend found healing here. Worshippers today visit the different shrines to perform ritual ablutions and prayers.

The site lies roughly 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Kumbakonam and can be reached by a paved road with bus connections. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the shrines and wear modest clothing.

At the base of the main structure, two stone wheels serve as sundials and mark the time of day through their shadows. Some of the stairway steps leading to the shrine produce different tones when stepped on.

Location: Thanjavur district

Inception: 1166

Founders: Rajaraja II

Architectural style: Hindu temple architecture

Part of: Great Living Chola Temples

GPS coordinates: 10.94841,79.35671

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:44