Kumbakonam

Kumbakonam town is dotted with numerous temples and hence known as the 'temple town' of Tamil Nadu. It is located in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. Not only the town but also its surrounding areas have several temples. The Mahamaham festival is celebrated with boundless joy in the city. It is celebrated once in twelve years at the Mahamaham tank. The city is surrounded by two rivers namely Kauvery and Arasalar. In the 7th century it was the capital of the Chola Kingdom.

Attractions:

Kumbakonam, the temple town boasts of a large number of beautiful temples. Some of its famous temples are Sarangapani temple, Darasura temple, Chakrapani temple and Kumbeshwara temple. The beauty of the Sarangapani and Ramaswamy temples deserve mention. Sarangapani temple is the largest Vishnu temple of Kumbakonam. Its history dates back to the 13th century. Towering to the height of 147 feet, the temple was built by the Nayak Kings. The Karuvarai and Vimanam are the beautifully carved pillars whichform a great attraction of the temple. The walls of the Ramaswamy temple are painted with scenes from the great Hindu epic Ramayana. Dedicated to lord Rama, goddess Sita and Hanumana, the idol in the sanctum of the temple is said to be carved from Saligrama monolith. The pillars are decorated with intricate carvings.

Shopping:

The bazaars of Kumbakonam offers meticulously carved Panchaloha idols, fine silk, betel leaves, lamps and brass vessels.

How To Reach:

Air: The nearest airports are Trichy and Chennai.
Rail and Road: Kumbakonam is easily accessible from different parts of Tamil Nadu By trains and buses.

Accommodation: