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8 hrs
Up to 5 days
10 people
English
Embark on an enriching journey through the heart of Tamil Nadu on the “Chola Temple Trail: Thanjavur to Gangaikonda Cholapuram” tour. Begin at the majestic Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its towering vimana and rich Chola architecture. Explore the historic Thanjavur Palace and Museum, home to a remarkable collection of Chola art and manuscripts at the Saraswathi Mahal Library. Continue to the ethereal Darasuram Temple, celebrated for its intricate stone carvings and unique chariot-shaped mandapam. Conclude your pilgrimage at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a testament to the Chola dynasty’s architectural prowess with its symmetrical Tamil-style structures and ornate mandapas. This tour promises an unforgettable immersion into South India’s ancient temple heritage.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Discount on 2-person group | 2 | 2 | $351 |
| 2 | Discount on 3-person group | 3 | 3 | $673 |
| 3 | Discount on 4-person group | 4 | 4 | $1,023 |
| 4 | Discount on 5-person group | 5 | 5 | $1,310 |
| 5 | Discount on 6-person group | 6 | 6 | $1,610 |
| 6 | Discount on 7-person group | 7 | 7 | $1,960 |
| 7 | Discount on 8-person group | 8 | 8 | $2,311 |
| 8 | Discount on 9-person group | 9 | 9 | $2,599 |
| 9 | Discount on 10-person group | 10 | 10 | $2,888 |
Pick up from your hotel in Trichy for a full-day excursion to visit The Great Living Chola Temples at Thanjore, Darasuram & Gangaikonda Cholapuram (140kms/ 3hrs approx one way). These temples, built between the 10th and 12th centuries CE by the Chola dynasty, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites renowned for their architectural brilliance and cultural significance.
Thanjore: Begin with Brihadeshwara Temple & Fort - Constructed by the great Chola king Rajaraja I in the 10th century, this temple is a masterpiece of Chola architecture, known for its towering vimana (temple tower) and intricate sculptures depicting mythological tales. Explore Thanjavur Palace & Museum, which houses a rich collection of Chola-era artifacts including bronze and granite statues. Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library, one of the oldest libraries in Asia, housing a vast collection of ancient manuscripts in Indian and European languages.
Darasuram Temple: Proceed to Darasuram Temple, an architectural marvel known for its ornate vimana and exquisite stone carvings. The temple's front mandapam resembles a chariot drawn by horses, showcasing the ingenuity of Chola craftsmanship. Adjacent is the Periya Nayaki Amman Temple, dedicated to the consort of Airavateshwarar (Shiva).
Gangaikonda Cholapuram: Continue your journey to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, another significant Chola temple complex known for its elaborate Tamil architecture. The temple is characterized by its square plan and intricate detailing, including mandapas (halls) and sanctums adorned with sculptures of deities and mythological motifs. Explore the Nandi Mandapa, Alankar Mandapa, Maha Mandapa, Mukha Mandapa, and Ardha Mandapa, each showcasing the artistic prowess of the Chola dynasty.
After a comprehensive sightseeing experience, drive back to Trichy and drop off at your hotel, concluding your enriching journey through the Great Living Chola Temples.
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