AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE - KUMBAKONAM

AIRAVATESVARA  TEMPLE - DARASURAM -KUMBAKONAM

Airawateswarar temple Darasuram is about 4 Kms from Kumbakonam.The main deity in this temple is Airawateswarar (Lord Shiva). Lord Shiva here is known as Airawateswara because he was worshipped in this temple by Airavata the white elephant of the King of Gods Indira.

This is a UNESCO heritage site and is maintained by ASI. This temple is said to be built by the Chola Kings between 10th and 12th century. There is a lot of similarity between the Thanjavur Brihideswara temple and Gangaikondacholapuram temple.

Nandi In Front Of Airawateswara Temple 

Right in front of the temple is a huge Nandi idol facing the temple. As we enter the temple premises is a mandapam with beautifully carved pillars and in the form of a chariot. The artwork is amazing.

Mandapam and Dwjastamba at Airawateswara Temple

CARVINGS ON PILLARS AT AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE

Walking through the mandapam we come to the sanctum of Lord Airavateswarar. His consort Goddess Periyanayaki Amman has a separate temple located to the north of the Airawateswarar temple.

According to legends, Airawata the elephant, suffering from change of colour due to curse of Durvasamuni had his colours restored by bathing in the sacred water in this temple. The image of Airawata with Indra seated can be seen in the inner shrine. The presiding deity derives the name Airavateswarar from this incident.

It is also said that Yama the King of death suffering from burning sensation all over the body due to the Rishi's curse took bath in the sacred tank and was cured of the burning sensation. Since then the sacred tank is called Yamatheertham. 

CARVINGS OF DANCER AT AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE

AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE

LINGODBHAVA MURTHY -AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE

MANDAPAM

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MAHISHASURA MARDINI- AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE

SHIVA

AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE -DARSURAM

CHARIOT SHAPED MANDAPAM AT AIRAVATESVARA TEMPLE

Though this is a smaller temple than Brihadeeswarar temple and Gangaikondacholapuram the sculpture and construction is amazing. There is no restriction on photography except in the sanctum. Devotees flock to this temple to seek blessings and also to enjoy the architecture.

Timings 6 am to 8 pm