Anand Mahindra Spotlighted This Temple In Thanjavur For Its "Sophisticated Ancient Engineering"

Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group, is well-known for his travel musings on X (formerly Twitter). He often spotlights various destinations in India and explains why they are worth exploring. While some recommendations are based on his own trips or experiences, some are rooted in other aspects that he finds fascinating. For instance, Anand Mahindra recently shared a post about a famous temple in Thanjavur. He first noted the multifaceted attraction of visiting temples in India and how such trips can go beyond religious reasons.

Also Read: Anand Mahindra Finds A Stunning Indian Village "Above The Clouds". How To Get There

He wrote, "I've been posting stories about exotic locations & landscapes, but touring the great temples of India is a worthy obsession in itself... Visiting them is more than a spiritual trip; the temples are visually breathtaking. But it's also an exploration of the world's most sophisticated ancient engineering." Anand Mahindra then turned his focus to Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur. He pointed out that it was "constructed from granite, without any mortar, using a sophisticated interlocking stone technique that has withstood earthquakes for a millennium."

I've been posting stories about exotic locations & landscapes, but touring the great temples of India is a worthy obsession in itself…

Visiting them is more than a spiritual trip; the temples are visually breathtaking.

But it's also an exploration of the world's most… pic.twitter.com/jCOeymNtPD

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) December 28, 2025

Several X users echoed his sentiments of wonder. Read some of their comments below:

Absolutely mesmerizing! The Brihadeeswara Temple is a true engineering marvel – that massive 216-ft vimana built without mortar, intricate carvings everywhere, and still standing strong after 1000+ years.

— ChiduYatra (@chidanand33) December 28, 2025

Stunning architecture and aesthetics. Interestingly, every Indian temple has a unique story, artistic discovery, rich history, and some of the greatest energy centres on earth for ages. No greater blessing than visiting temples and surrendering yourself. ❤️🧿

— raavii (@raavii27) December 28, 2025

🙌🏻 Brihadeeswara Temple isn't just a marvel of devotion it's a testament to Chola ingenuity that modern engineers still study. No mortar, pure granite interlocks defying time &tremors. India's ancient temples truly are engineering masterpieces disguised as spiritual sanctuaries🔥

— Kumar  (@kumarshirur01) December 28, 2025

Absolutely! The temples are stunning and hold so much history. It's a whole journey of beauty and spirituality. Keep sharing those adventures!

— Nitin (@Nitin1617177) December 29, 2025

A powerful reminder that India's greatest wonders are not just destinations, but living textbooks of faith, art, and engineering.
The magnificence of Brihadeeswara Temple stands as proof that ancient Indian minds mastered scale, precision, and resilience centuries ahead of their…

— SURINDER JEET KAUR (ਸੁਰਿੰਦਰ ਜੀਤ ਕੌਰ) सुरिंदर जीत (@ACP_SURINDER_K) December 28, 2025

Guide To Brihadeeswara Temple In Thanjavur

Towering over the historic city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, the Brihadeeswara Temple (locally known as "Periya Kovil" or the "Big Temple") is not just an architectural marvel but a living testament to India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Commissioned by the Chola emperor Rajaraja I and completed in 1010 CE, this majestic structure has stood for over a thousand years as one of the supreme achievements of Dravidian architecture.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the 'Great Living Chola Temples', the Brihadeeswara Temple is a vibrant pilgrimage site and a window into South India's golden age. The granite vimana (sanctum tower) rises to around 66 metres (216 feet) and remains one of the tallest of its kind, dominating the Thanjavur skyline and catching the light dramatically at sunrise and sunset.

Also Read: Anand Mahindra Shares Glimpses From His Kerala Trip To "One Of The Most Beautiful Villages On Earth"

How To Plan Your Visit To Brihadeeswara Temple In Thanjavur

Brihadeeswara Temple In Thanjavur. Photo Credit: Unsplash

The temple is generally open daily from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Early morning visits offer quieter surroundings, while evenings bring softer light for photography. Entry is free for the general public, though certain rituals may involve a nominal charge. Sunrise and sunset are particularly striking times to explore the corridors and open courtyards.

What To See At Brihadeeswara Temple In Thanjavur

• The Main Sanctuary: The heart of the temple houses a massive Shiva lingam, preserving over a millennium of continuous worship.
• Monolithic Nandi: The colossal single-stone Nandi statue stands as one of the largest in the country and makes for a defining introduction to the complex.
• Carvings and Inscriptions: The corridors and inner walls contain layers of sculptural detail and inscriptions that offer a glimpse into Chola administration, culture, and artistry.

Best Time To Visit Brihadeeswara Temple In Thanjavur

While the temple is open all year, the October to March window is ideal thanks to cooler temperatures. This period also aligns well with trips covering other Thanjavur landmarks such as royal palaces, art galleries, and bronze workshops.

How To Get There

• By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport is the closest major airport, located about 55 km away.
• By Rail: Thanjavur Junction connects the city to major hubs including Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
• By Road: Regular buses, cabs, and self-drive options make it easily accessible as part of a wider Tamil Nadu itinerary.

Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur is an iconic monument you need to visit soon. If you're travelling to Tamil Nadu, ensure it's on your itinerary!