India

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Chola imperial capital and temple, 11th century India

Location

Explore the Map

Historical Context

About

Gaṅgaikoṇḍa Chōḻapuram is a village located near to Jayankondam, Ariyalur district, Tamil Nadu, India. It became the capital of the Chola dynasty in c. 1025 by Chola emperor Rajendra I, and served as the capital for around 250 years. The town is about approximately 125 kilometres (78 mi) northeast of Tiruchirapalli international airport. As of 2014, the ancient city exists as a heritage town in the Ariyalur district of Tamil Nadu, India. The great Arulmigu Peruvudaiyar Temple at this place is next only to the Arulmigu Peruvudaiyar Kovil at Thanjavur in its monumental nature and surpasses it in sculptural quality. It has been recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history

Capital founded

c. 1025 CE

Main temple completed

1035 CE

Inscription referencing palace

1119 CE

Malik Kafur invasion

1311 CE

Khusrau Khan raid

1314 CE

Muhammad bin Tughlaq invasion

1327 CE

Vijayanagara defeat of Madurai Sultanate

1378 CE

Temple reconsecration

2017 CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Defensive Structures

Defensive Walls
category

Miscellaneous Features

Underground Tunnels
category

Water Management Features

WellsIrrigation CanalsReservoirsFish Ponds
category

Industrial and Craft Structures

Workshops
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesAltarsSacred Wells
category

Artistic and Decorative Features

StatuesInscriptionsReliefs
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

PalacesCitiesTowns
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Artificial Mounds
category

Transportation and Communication Structures

Roads
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore

Plan Your Visit

Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information

Reference

Details

Country

India

Coordinates

11.21° N, 79.45° E