The Chola period (9th to 12th century AD) reached the pinnacle of temple architecture in South India. The major feature of this style is the
vimana, set atop the
garbh griha (literally, an womb), the central sanctum where the main deity resides. Facing the sanctum is a flat-roofed hall with exquisitely carved pillars. It is used for temple arts performances. A courtyard enclosed with high walls skirts the entire area. Towering
gopuras (chisel-shaped steeples) are another feature of this temple architecture.
