Only 3km west of Kumbakonam in Darasuram, this temple dedicated to Shiva was constructed by Rajaraja II (1146–63). The steps of the Rajagambhira Hall are carved with vivid elephants and horses pulling chariots. This pavilion's 108 all-different pillars have detailed carvings including dancers, acrobats and the five-in-one beast Yali (elephant's head, lion's body, goat's horns, pig's ears and a cow's backside). Inside the main shrine , you can honour the central lingam and get a tilak mark for ₹10.
On the outside of the shrine are several fine carved images of Shiva. Four mandapas frame the corners of the courtyard complex.
