Dharasuram is a panchayat town in Thanjavur district in the state of Tamil Nadu, India.

Demographics

As of 2001 India census, Dharasuram had a population of 13,027. Males constitute 50% of the population and females 50%. Dharasuram has an average literacy rate of 70%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 77% and, female literacy is 63%. In Dharasuram, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Darasuram Airavatesvara Temple

This temple was built by Raja raja - II during 1146 - 1163 AD. Darasuram Airavatesvara temple is described as a sculptor's dream re-lived in stone. One can see the fine details of work on the pillers of this temple. The mandapam is in the shape of a chariot pulled by horses. To the north of this great temple, the Periya Nayaki Amman temple stands out as a separate temple. Lord Siva is in the form of Airavateswarar (Male and Female) can be seen one the main wall of these temple.

During the earlier period Darasuram was know as Rajarajapuram and latter the name Rajarajapuram corrupted and became Darasuram. Before entering the temple at the entrance, you will come across small mandapa, and the stone steps of this mandapa produce the seven different swaras on tapping the stone steps at different spots. The Vimanam of this temple is only about 24 meters in height where as the Brihadishwara Temple vimanam stands 63 meters tall.

Photo Gallery

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