This temple is one of the religious sites that are a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 12th century by Rajaraja Chola II. The deity’s consort, Periya Nayaki Amman, has her temple situated near this temple.
It is known as a storehouse of art and architecture with a vimana of 85 feet high and front mandapam of a huge chariot and some exquisite stone carvings.
As per legend, Airavata, the white elephant of Indra and King of Death, Yama, worshipped Lord Siva in this temple.