Darasuram is a small town that is famous for the 12th-century Airavatesvara Temple. The current temple was built by the great king, Rajaraja Chola II, in 1166 CE.

Airavatesvara Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with Thanjavur Brihadeeswara Temple and Gangaikondacholisvaram Temple. These three temples are called the Great Living Chola Temples. It was the last temple built among the three temples. Brihadeeswarar Temple was the first temple that was built in the 11th century. Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple was the second temple built in the 11th century.

Sanctum of Airavateshwarar temple at Darasuram

Airavatesvara Temple is Dedicated to Lord Shiva. The deity of Lord Shiva’s consort, Goddesses Parvathi, is the deity at the Periya Nayaki Amman temple, situated on the north of Airavatesvara Temple.

The temple is known for its stone carvings and is a treasure for art and architecture lovers. Various inscriptions in the temple describe the 63 Saivite saints (Saivite is the section of people worshiping Lord Shiva) and the events associated with them, along with their images. Other inscriptions give details of the renovation work done to the temple by Kulottunga Chola III.

Sculpture at Airavateshwarar temple, Darasuram

How Do I Go to Darasuram Airavatesvara Temple?

Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram is located near Kumbakonam Town and is well connected to other parts of the state.

There is a railway station at Kumbakonam. Thanjavur Airport is the nearest airport at 28 kilometers away.