Airavateswara temple sculptures

Airavateswara temple in Darasuram, Tamil Nadu is one of those temples in which the rare Dravidian sculptural legacy is safeguarded. The sculptures here are of varied themes, ranging from religious to secular. The roof of the temple, too, is well decorated with sculptures and colourful patterns.

This temple was built by Raja Raja Chola II in the 12th century. This temple is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been declared as one of the Great Living Chola Temples. The temple is originally dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legends, Airavata, the mythical white elephant, worshipped Shiva here and hence the temple gets its name.