The Shaivite Hindu temple Brihadishvara Temple, also known as Rajarajesvaram by its architect and locally as Thanjai Periya Kovil and Peruvudaiyar Kovil, is situated on the south bank of the Cauvery river in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It is a prime example of Tamil architecture and one of the biggest Hindu temples. Another name for it is Dakshina Meru (“Meru of the South). The temple, which was constructed between 1003 and 1010 CE by the Chola emperor Rajaraja I, is one of three structures that make up the “Great Living Chola Temples” designated by UNESCO. The other two are the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple and Airavatesvara temple, which are located 70 km (43 mi) and 40 km (25 mi) to the northeast of the temple, respectively.

Its 11th-century temple’s original monuments were constructed around a moat. It contained the gopura, the main temple’s enormous tower, as well as carvings, frescoes, and inscriptions primarily pertaining to Shaivism but also to Vaishnavism and Shaktism. A historical harm to the temple resulted in the loss of certain artwork. In the centuries that followed, further mandapam and monuments were constructed. Fortified walls that were erected after the 16th century surround the temple today.

One of the largest structures in South India, the vimana tower over the shrine was constructed from granite. One of the largest Shiva lingas in India may be found in the temple, which also boasts a vast colonnaded prakara (corridor). Along with being the location where the bronze Nataraja, Shiva as the lord of dance, was commissioned in the 11th century, it is renowned for the excellence of its sculpture. Shrines to Nandi, Parvati, Murugan, Vinayagar, Sabhapati, Dakshinamurti, Chandikeshwar, Varahi, Thiyagarajar of Thiruvarur, and other deities are also located within the complex. One of Tamil Nadu’s most popular tourist destinations is the temple.