The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple was built as a small temple complex in 100 BCE at Sringaram. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the largest and most active temple complexes in India.
1. Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple
The Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram was built in Kanchipuram and has existed since 600 CE. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the element of Earth.
2. Ekambareswarar Temple
The Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in Madurai. It is dated to the 6th Century CE, although it was renovated extensively in the 14th century CE. Dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi is an avatar of Parvati.
3. Meenakshi Amman Temple
The Chidambaram Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram existed in 6th-century texts, as evidenced by prehistoric texts. However, the city was not known as such. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
4. Chidambaram Nataraja Temple
The Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple was constructed in 700 CE in Kanchipuram. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva during the Pallava dynasty. This temple is noted for its simplicity and elegance.
5. Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple
The Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram was constructed in 725 CE, during the reign of the Pallava dynasty, Located on the shore of the Bay of Bengal, this temple complex is named for its proximity to the sea.
6. Shore Temple
The 7th-century Adi Kumbeswarar Temple in Kumbakonam is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple, dating back to the Chola period, is known for its grand gopuram and elaborate carvings.
7. Adi Kumbeswarar Temple
The Arunachalesvara Temple in Tituvannamalai was built in the 9th century CE. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located at the base of the sacred Arunachala Hill.
8. Arunachalesvara Temple
The Ramanathaswamy Temple was built in Rameswaram in the 12th century, although a ‘shivalinga’ existed beforehand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is famous for its long corridors and courtyard.
9. Ramanathaswamy Temple
The Brihadishvara Temple was built between 1003 and 1010 in Thanjavur. It is also known as the Peruvudaiyar Kovil is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of Chola architecture.