Famous and grand 15 places of interest of South India which you do not know, must visit
When it comes to temples in South India, Tamil Nadu stands supreme due to its ancient and magnificent Dravidian architecture. Adorned with brightly colored sculptures on their gopurams (towers), these temples exemplify some of the greatest examples of temple architecture, which are the backbone of Tamil culture. The most magnificent temples of South India are found here. These temples hold significance not only in India but are also widely recognized globally. Their antiquity and grandeur are prominently displayed in these temples, which play a vital role in portraying India as a culturally rich nation.
From Tamil Nadu to Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, the entire South India boasts a cluster of ancient and grand temples, which not only showcase their religious importance but also serve as symbols of prosperity. Let's explore the top 15 famous temples of South India in this article.
Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai
Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, revered as Meenakshi, along with her consort Lord Shiva, known as Sundareshwar, this temple is one of the most magnificent and important temples of ancient India. With a history stretching over 3500 years, the main sanctum of this temple is considered one of the wealthiest temples in India. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva, in the form of Sundareshwar, came to Madurai to marry Princess Meenakshi, the daughter of King Malayadhwaja, as Meenakshi is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The architecture and structural brilliance of this grand temple have earned it a place among the Seven Wonders of India.
Spread over 15 acres, this temple complex boasts 4500 pillars and 12 towers. A fascinating aspect is its numerous sculptures. The temple hosts the Chithirai festival, a divine reenactment of the divine marriage of the temple deities, held annually in Madurai in April, lasting for 12 days.
Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur (Tanjore)
Thanjavur, a bastion of Tamil culture, emerged in the 11th century under the leadership of Chola King Raja Raja Chola I. The powerful Cholas constructed over 70 temples in Thanjavur, the most famous being the Brihadeeswarar Temple (also known as the Big Temple). Listed as one of the three great living Chola temples by UNESCO, it celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 2010, becoming one of the oldest temples in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Entirely constructed from granite, its tower stands over 60 meters high, and the passage around the sanctum is adorned with Chola murals.
The architecture of this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is not only visually appealing but also appears magical due to its unique construction, as the shadow of its dome never falls on the ground.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Approximately an hour's drive northeast of Thanjavur, you will find the two other great living Chola temples listed by UNESCO, at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Thanjavur. The royal temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram was constructed soon after the magnificent temple in Thanjavur when King Raja Raja Chola I shifted the Chola capital there in celebration of his victories. Its design is similar to the larger temple, but on a smaller scale, featuring a massive stone Nandi (bull) in its courtyard. West of Thanjavur, in Darasuram, lies the 12th-century Airavateswarar Temple, renowned for its artistry and intricate stone carvings. Thanjavur is a magnificent destination filled with temples.
Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
Known as the "City of Thousand Temples," Kanchipuram is renowned not only for its distinctive silk sarees but also for its temples. Located approximately two hours southwest of Chennai, on the main highway to Bangalore, it was once the capital of the Pallavas dynasty. Today, about a hundred temples remain, many of which are unique architectural marvels. The diversity of the temples is particularly notable, with temples dedicated to both Shiva and Vishnu, each exhibiting sophisticated designs. Built by various rulers (including the Cholas, Vijayanagara rulers, Muslims, and the British), each of these temples has its own refined design.
Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
The uniqueness of the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram lies in its astonishing corridor, considered the longest in India, encircling the temple's perimeter. The painted ceilings with endless rows of pillars create a mesmerizing view. Located just 100 meters from the sea (Agni Theertham), pilgrims bathe there before entering the temple and visiting its 22 sacred wells. The water is believed to purify the mind and body. Situated on a small island at the tip of the Indian subcontinent, Rameshwaram holds a special place in Hindu mythology, where Lord Rama constructed a bridge across the sea to Lanka to rescue Goddess Sita from the clutches of the demon king Ravana.
Other Notable Tourist Destinations:
Chidambaram (Nataraja Temple), Tamil Nadu
Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
Tiruchirapalli (Trichy), Tamil Nadu
Belur, Karnataka
Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Pattadakal, Karnataka
Aihole, Karnataka
Pudukottai, Tamil Nadu
Vellore, Tamil Nadu
Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
Features include a massive monolithic Nandi (bull) statue, unusual pillars hanging from the temple ceilings, and some of the finest murals of the Vijayanagara kings.
