1. AAT
  2. Architectural Styles
  3. Later Chola architecture style
Title

Later Chola architecture style

4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Rare
4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
DescriptionLater Chola architecture, an evolution of Dravidian style, is characterized by taller vimanas, more elaborate gopurams, and a greater emphasis on sculptural detail, reflecting the empire's wealth and power.
Also Known As
Kerala Dravidian
Temple
Sloping roofs
gopuram.
Dravidian Architecture
Kerala Architecture
Koothambalam Design
Chera Style
Traditional Hindu Temple Architecture
Vastu Shastra
Silpa Shastras
Later Chola influences (possible
given their historical presence in the region)
Tags
Chola temple
Vimana
Gopuram
Sculpture
Dravidian
Style ID
INHF-STY-0751321440-01:18:40:07:07:18:LCAS
URIhttps://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/styles/later-chola-architecture-style
API Endpoint
https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/later-chola-architecture-style
Total Sites1
Primary Sites0
CreatedNovember 19, 2025
Last UpdatedNovember 29, 2025

External References

View on Wikidata

Regions

Regions
Tamil Nadu
Kerala
Andhra Pradesh
Karnataka

Historical Context

Time Periods
11th century CE - 13th century CE
Dynasties
Chola Dynasty

Sacred Context

Sacred Contexts
Hindu temples

Architectural Details

Primary Materials
Granite
Architectural Features
Taller Vimanas
Elaborate Gopurams
Sculptural Detail
Pillared Mandapas

Keywords

Keywords
Chola temple
Vimana
Gopuram
Sculpture
Dravidian

Recommended Sources

TitleTypeNotes
The Chola Temples: Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholapuram and DarasuramBookStudy of major Chola temple complexes

Heritage Sites (1)

Site NameStatusConfidence
Vadakkunnathan Temple Thrissur
Secondary
100%

See Also

Related Materials

Granite

Related Features

Taller Vimanas
Elaborate Gopurams
Sculptural Detail
Pillared Mandapas

Example Sites

Vadakkunnathan Temple Thrissur
Browse all architectural styles →

How to Identify Later Chola architecture style

  1. Look for characteristic features: Taller Vimanas, Elaborate Gopurams, Sculptural Detail.
  2. Verify geographic location: Later Chola architecture style architecture is typically found in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
  3. Examine construction materials: Later Chola architecture style typically uses Granite.
  4. Consider historical context: This style dates from 11th century CE - 13th century CE.
  5. Compare with documented examples: 1 heritage sites use this architectural style.

Frequently Asked Questions