India: Great Living Chola Temples

The Great Living Chola Temples were built by kings of the Chola Empire, which stretched over all of south India and the neighbouring islands. The site includes three great 11th- and 12th-century Temples: the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram. The Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram, built by Rajendra I, was completed in 1035. Its 53-m vimana (sanctum tower) has recessed corners and a graceful upward curving movement, contrasting with the straight and severe tower at Thanjavur. The Airavatesvara temple complex, built by Rajaraja II, at Darasuram features a 24-m vimana and a stone image of Shiva. The temples testify to the brilliant achievements of the Chola in architecture, sculpture, painting and bronze casting. source:whc.unesco.org

Inscribed: 1987 Extn: 2004

Temples Included

1. Brihadiswara Temple, Thanjavur

2. Brihadiswara Temple, Gangaikondacholisvaram

3. Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram

Postcard 1: Brihadiswara Temple

Postcard issued by India Post with matching cancellation.

Postcard 2