Decorated with captivating stone sculptures, the beautiful temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuran is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in the 11th century by the Chola King Rajendra Cholan, the temple has a height of about 54.86 m. This nine storey structure is built in typical Chola style architecture.

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The temple has a number of sculptures and shrines, which showcase the artistic expertise of the then artists. A few of them are:

• The wonderful statue of dancing Lord Ganesha is undoubtedly a masterpiece.
• At the entrance of the temple, the huge Vimana arrests the visitor's sight. This vimana is flanked on either side by small temples. One temple houses the idol of Goddess Durga, which is well preserved, while the other one is a small shire of Chandikesvara.
• The walls are adorned with numerous sculptures and images of various gods and goddesses.
• The images of dancing Nataraja (the Cosmic dancer) and goddess Saraswati are simply unbeatable from every aspect.
• The idol of Nandi Bull, located in the east, faces the main shrine.

The temple was a carefully planned structure and was laid in accordance with the architectural treatises. It is approached through the northern entrance from the road.