Thanjavur Big Temple
The Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a famous Hindu temple located in the city of Thanjavur in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple was built during the Chola dynasty, which ruled southern India from the 9th to the 13th century CE.
Construction of the temple was commissioned by King Raja Raja Chola I in 1003 CE, and was completed in 1010 CE. The temple was built to honor Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. It was designed by the architect Sama Varma, who is believed to have been inspired by the Dravida architectural style.
The temple is renowned for its unique architecture, which features a towering 66-meter-tall vimana, or temple tower, that is capped with a massive stone dome weighing more than 80 tons. The vimana is surrounded by smaller towers, and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
The temple's walls are also covered with intricate carvings and frescoes, many of which have been well-preserved over the centuries. The carvings depict various scenes from Hindu mythology, as well as images of daily life in ancient India. The frescoes are notable for their vivid colors and intricate designs.
The Brihadeeswarar Temple is considered to be one of the greatest architectural and artistic achievements of the Chola dynasty. It was built using locally-sourced materials, including granite and sandstone, and is a testament to the Chola's engineering and architectural prowess.
The temple continues to be an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and attracts visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its stunning beauty and rich history. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the Brihadeeswarar Temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987
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Kerala Backwaters
The Kerala backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, lakes, and estuaries that extend over nearly 900 km along the southwestern coast of India. This picturesque region is known for its natural beauty, unique culture, and abundant biodiversity.
The backwaters were originally formed by the confluence of several rivers and the Arabian Sea. Over time, sedimentation and land reclamation led to the formation of a complex network of waterways. The network of waterways is so extensive that it is often called the "Venice of the East."
The backwaters are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. The mangrove forests that line the shores of the backwaters are home to several species of birds, including kingfishers, egrets, and herons. The waterways are also home to fish such as pearl spot, catfish, and prawns. Visitors can take a boat ride through the backwaters to see the local wildlife up close.
One of the most popular ways to explore the backwaters is on a houseboat. These traditional boats, called kettuvallams, were originally used to transport rice and other goods along the waterways. Today, they have been converted into luxurious floating hotels that offer visitors a unique and relaxing way to experience the backwaters. The boats meander through the waterways, passing by small villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields. Visitors can watch the locals fishing and farming along the shores.
The backwaters are an important part of the local economy. Fishing, agriculture, and tourism are the main industries in the region. Many of the locals live in small villages along the shores of the backwaters. Visitors can see the locals fishing, farming, and weaving coir ropes and mats. Coir is made from the fibrous husks of coconuts and is used to make a variety of products such as mats, baskets, and ropes.
In conclusion, the Kerala backwaters are a unique and beautiful destination that offer visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this part of India - Kerala, the God's own country ❤️
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Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is an ancient city that was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most powerful empires in South India that ruled from the 14th to the 16th century. The ruins of the city spread across a vast area of more than 16 square miles and are surrounded by the Tungabhadra River on one side and rocky hills on the other.
Hampi is known for its stunning architecture and unique landscape. The city is filled with ancient temples, palaces, and other historical monuments that are an epitome of the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. The most famous attraction of Hampi is the Virupaksha Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest functioning temples in India. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and impressive architecture, making it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.
Apart from the Virupaksha Temple, Hampi has numerous other temples such as the Vittala Temple, the Achyutaraya Temple, and the Hazara Rama Temple. Each temple has its unique architecture and is a testimony to the architectural skills of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Vittala Temple is known for its impressive musical pillars that produce different musical notes when struck, and the Hazara Rama Temple is known for its intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
Hampi also has a rich cultural heritage, with the locals following unique traditions and customs. The Hampi Utsav, which is an annual cultural festival, is a testimony to the city's cultural heritage. The festival celebrates the music, dance, and art of the region and attracts tourists from all over the world.
In conclusion, Hampi is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. The city is a perfect blend of stunning architecture, unique landscape, and rich cultural heritage that has withstood the test of time. A visit to Hampi is a journey back in time, allowing visitors to witness the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire and the beauty of the ancient city that once stood tall in South India.
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