Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram: A Chola Marvel That Actually Sings ‘sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni’ and Stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram: A Chola Marvel That Actually Sings ‘sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni’ and Stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (image: canva)

Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram: The Airavatesvara Temple is near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, stands as one of the finest examples of Chola architecture. Built in 1166 CE by Raja Raja Chola II, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is part of the Great Living Chola Temples. Known for its intricate stone carvings, musical steps and divine legends, this temple continues to attract devotees, historians, and art lovers alike.

Airavatesvara Temple: History and Significance

Constructed during the 12th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva also worshipped here as Airavatesvara. It is believed that Airavata, the celestial white elephant of Lord Indra, regained his pure form after bathing in the temple tank, giving the shrine its name. Alongside, legends tell how Yama (the god of death) was relieved of his suffering here, making the temple sacred for devotees seeking divine blessings.

48 carved pillars showing Shiva’s cosmic dance and legends (image: canva)

Airavatesvara Temple: Architectural Grandeur

The Airavatesvara Temple is designed like a stone chariot, showcasing the Cholas’ mastery in temple architecture. The maha-mandapa features 48 ornately carved pillars with depictions of deities, Nayanmars, and mythological tales. Rows of yali pillars with their detailed lion-elephant forms, add to the grandeur.

The most striking feature is the “singing steps” of the agra-mandapa. When tapped, these seven steps produce the seven musical notes "Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni" reflecting the acoustic brilliance of Chola artisans.

Intricate Chola pillars narrating divine tales in stone (image: canva)

Sculptures and Inscriptions

Every corner of the temple narrates a story through its sculptures and inscriptions. Relief carvings portray episodes from the Periya Puranam, honoring the 63 Shaiva saints (Nayanmars). Shrines within the complex also celebrate deities from Vaishnavism and Shaktism which showcase the inclusive spirit of the Chola dynasty.

Inscriptions on the temple walls mention royal donations, temple activities, and devotional practices, giving historians deep insights into medieval Tamil culture.

UNESCO World Heritage Status

Recognized by UNESCO in 2004, This Temple at Darasuram stands alongside Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple as the Great Living Chola Temples. Despite the passage of centuries, the temple remains an active place of worship and a beacon of Tamil heritage.

UNESCO-listed Chola temple with singing stone steps (image: canva)

Visiting Darasuram Temple

• Location: Darasuram, about 3 km from Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
• Timings: 8 AM–8 PM (sanctum closed from 1–4 PM)
• Best Experience: Opt for a guided tour to explore the legends, musical steps, and carvings in detail

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