This is the most eminent monuments in Tanjore and is a fine example of Dravidian architecture. The temple was built in the year 1100 AD by the popular king, Raja Chola of the Chola Dynasty. The temple is devoted to the Lord Shiva and the walls of the altar are covered with ancient frescos from the Chola and the Nayak periods. The temple has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site since 1987.