Rock-Cut Shrine, Kuranganilmuttam In India: History,Facts, & Services
Rock-Cut Shrine Kuranganilmuttam Overview
Kuranganilmuttam is an ancient rock-cut shrine located in Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. The shrine is carved into a single rock and constructed during the Dravidian period. The shrine is believed to have been built between 1105 and 1141 AD by Kulottunga Chola-I, the famous Chola King and reckoned as one of the greatest rulers of Chola dynasty. The shrine lies close to the sacred crater lake at Kuranganilmuttam where the Chola Kings are believed to have conducted festivals and other rituals.
Rock-Cut Shrine Kuranganilmuttam Prominent Features
The rock-cut shrine is 36 feet in length, 8 feet wide and is 8 feet high. The main shrine at the centre is dedicated to Lord Shiva, while two smaller shrines – one to the east and one to the west of the main temple - are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma, respectively. All the three shrines bear exquisite sculptures and several carved stone panels adorn the walls of the shrine. Further, the central shrine is adorned with images of Lord Ganesha, Navagraha, Lord Nataraja, Goddess Meenakshi and Aiyanaar apart from Shiva Lingam.
Rock-Cut Shrine Kuranganilmuttam History
The shrine was built by King Kulottunga Chola-I during the eleventh century. The shrine is renowned for its architecture and sculpted stone panels, which comprise some of the finest pieces of rock-cut temple art during the Dravidian period. The shrine is believed to be the last of such structures built by King Kulottunga Chola-I and is considered one of his great works.
Rock-Cut Shrine Kuranganilmuttam Interesting facts
The shrine is believed to be one of the oldest rock-cut shrines in India. The iconic shrine is believed to be built to commemorate King Kulottunga’s victory over the Kadava dynasty in 1101 AD, who had occupied the Tanjore region of the Chola dynasty. Also, a large statue of the Hindu deity Shiva -Nataraja is installed at the centre of the shrine and carries beautiful carvings depicting Lord Shiva's cosmic dance.
Explore India most popular tourist destination with us. Rock-Cut Shrine, Kuranganilmuttam In India: History,Facts, & Services,which is 35.14 km away from India main town, is the most popular destination to add in your travel wishlist.
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City:
India
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state:
, India Tamil Nadu
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country:
India
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country code:
IN
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postcode:
600077
Location:
, India Tamil Nadu India