Two-Day Itinerary for Kumbakonam in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore the Temples of Kumbakonam
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Kumbakonam Central Bus Stand

    Start your day by exploring the numerous temples in Kumbakonam. The city is known as the 'temple town' of South India, and it has more than 40 temples, each with its own history and significance. Start with the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, one of the oldest and largest temples in Kumbakonam, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Then visit the Ramaswamy Temple, which has a five-tiered Rajagopuram (monumental tower) and is dedicated to Lord Rama. Next, head to the Sarangapani Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a beautiful architecture. Finally, visit the Kasi Viswanathar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.

  2. Day 2: Visit the Heritage Sites of Kumbakonam
    15 minutes (2 miles) from Kumbakonam Central Bus Stand

    Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, located in nearby Thanjavur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings. Next, visit the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its intricate sculptures and carvings. Finally, head to the nearby town of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, which was the capital of the Chola Empire in the 11th century. Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a similar architecture to the Big Temple in Thanjavur.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Adi Kumbeswarar Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Ramaswamy Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Sarangapani Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Kasi Viswanathar Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Brihadeeswara Temple (2 hours, INR 250 for Indians, INR 1,300 for foreigners)
  • Airavatesvara Temple (1 hour, INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners)
  • Brihadeeswarar Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram (1 hour, INR 10 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,725 for Indians, INR 2,050 for foreigners
0