Brihadisvara Temple Tours and Tickets

No tickets are needed to visit Brihadisvara Temple, as this is an active place of worship, rather than a tourist site—hence the “Living Temple” designation. But it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand to offer as a donation.

Photography is typically permitted from the exterior only (sunrise and sunset are the most photogenic times). It is usually forbidden to take photos within the inner sanctum. The temple offers free lockers to keep your smartphones and cameras safe.

Dress modestly—that applies to men just as well as women. Keep shoulders and knees covered. And remember: Always take your shoes off before entering a Hindu temple. Bring socks if you prefer not to walk around barefoot.

While some temples are restricted only to Hindu worshippers, Brihadisvara Temple also welcomes non-Hindu visitors. That said, remember that this is a religious space and behave respectfully.

The temple is typically accessible to visitors using wheelchairs or with mobility issues. You may try requesting special assistance if you need any particular accommodations, though this might be harder to arrange if the temple is busy.

Consider visiting with a guide so that you won’t miss out on important context (for example, why the Hindu god Shiva is represented by a lingam, or cylindrical pillar). There is a lot here to take in.