Thanjavur Tourism (2021) - Tamil Nadu > Tanjore Top Things To Do

"City of Temples"

Thanjavur Tourism

Also known as Tanjore or the city of temples, Thanjavur has a lot of cultural value and is known for its famous Tanjore paintings, antiques and handicrafts, textiles and saris , its Carnatic music and musical instruments and of course the temples.

Thanjavur enjoys a rich historical heritage and holds a very important position in the moulding of ancient as well modern south Indian civilization. Being of religious importance, this place is a must for all pilgrims. There are many religious places in and around the district. Siva Ganga Garden, Art Gallery, Palace & Saraswathi Mahal Library, Sangeetha Mahal are the main tourist attractions. This is a place where you can constantly witness the magnificent and dynamic cultures of the past and present breathing life into and living in the everyday, giving the area a unique and glorious identity.

Places To Visit In Thanjavur

Brahadeshwara Temple

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Shiva Ganga Garden

Vijayanagar Fort

Thanjai Mamani Koil

Alangudi Guru Temple

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Thanjavur Packages

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Magic of Chennai, Mahabalipuram & 3 places

6 Nights

Starting from $266

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Tranquil Kanyakumari, Madurai, Pondicherry and More

8 Nights

Starting from $403

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Phenomenal Thanjevur, Kochi, Munnar and More

24 Nights

Starting from $1,371

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Glorious Chennai, Mahabalipuram & 4 places

9 Nights

Starting from $382

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Heritage of Thanjavur, Kumbakonam and Madurai

2 Nights

Starting from $116

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Riveting Thanjavur and Madurai

2 Nights

Starting from $109

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The Abode of Gods

With some beautiful temples in the town, showcasing intricacies of architectural intelligence and depicting the masterpieces the building are, Thanjevur is a treat to the eyes for everyone looking forward to visiting the city. Most of the temples in the city are associated with the worship of Lord Shiva, and their history dates back to the days when the region was ruled by the rulers of the Chola Kingdom. Each of the temples has stories associated with their origin, which is still recited in the form of folklore by the native inhabitants of Thanjevur. A few of these temples, including Brahadeeswara and Gangaikonda temple, have also been declared as world's heritage site, providing the visitors with a few more reasons to plan a trip to this place.

History Of Thanjavur

Thanjavur is the most visited and the most historical site in India today. It was the capital of Great Chola king Rajaraja who commissioned the beautiful temple of Brihadishvara. Also known as the city of ‘Tanjore’ this place was named after the demon Tanjan, who was killed by Sri Lord Vishnu and Anandavalli Amman. According to the legend, Tanjan’s last wish was to have this city named after him, which is why the city got its name. The history of this place stretches back to the Sangam era. Earlier known as ‘Tanjapuri’ the city used to be ruled by Vijayalaya Chola, who along with having strong troops of soldiers had a brilliant vision for architecture. One of the oldest temples, Brihadeeswarar Temple, was one such place that saw the rise and fall of several dynasties and experienced an incredible growth in politics and culture. After the Chola dynasty dissolved in the 13th century, Pandya empire came to power for a brief period before Britishers invaded in the 18th century. 1749 saw the British invasion as Thanjavur became a part of British India and an important city in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Tanjore Paintings

A popular form of classic south Indian painting that originated during the Chola rule and became a native art form of the city. These artworks revolve around the demonstration of Hindu gods and goddesses that are illustrated by stones, wood, glass etc. They are mainly painted on wood frames, locally known as ‘Palagai Padam’. The first step involves drawing the primary sketch on the base which is made up of cloth. The cloth is then pasted over the wooden base to apply a layer of chalk powder zinc - oxide and adhesive. Cut glass, pearls and stones are the primary elements used in carving out the painting which is then finished using vibrant colours.

Restaurants and Local Food in Thanjavur

Thanjevur provides a decent variety in food with a range of eateries to flatter you appetite. A typical meal consists of Rice, Sambhar(Curry), two types of vegetables, curd and a pickle. as well as Dosas, idilis, Upma, Parota, Sambhar, Rasam, Pongal, Paysam, Kesari, Sweet pongal.
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Suggested Itinerary for Thanjavur

Day 1 - Start your Journey from the Tanjore Railway Station. Explore the roads from Tanjore to Gangaikonda Cholapuram which was built during medieval India and was erected as the capital of the Cholas. Check into your hotel and enjoy a full course of 'Thanjavur Elai Virundu'. Spend your day roaming around royal palace museum, Tamil Nadu University and the most popular Brihadeeshwara Temple. End your day with a classic supper at Sathars.

Day 2 - Wake up early to get a glimpse of morning activities of the locals. Drink a cup of tea and Thavala Adai with rasam. Set off your journey to palaces, art galleries and sculptures around the city. Overnight at hotel in Tanjore with a dinner consisting of Surul Poli, Pal Payasam and Kozhakottai.

Day 3 - Start your day with the holy blessing of Ramaswamy temple. Visit the Manora Fort in the afternoon and have a delicious brunch of rice and curry in Sree Aariya Bhawan. Pack up your bag and have a blissful journey back home.

Best Time to Visit Thanjavur

Commuting within Thanjavur

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Top Hotels In Thanjavur

Hotel Gnanam

8.0 (355 reviews)

$ 30 onwards

Ideal Riverview Resort

8.6 (220 reviews)

$ 116 onwards

Rams Inn

8.4 (185 reviews)

$ 24 onwards

Hotel Victoriyah

7.6 (282 reviews)

$ 21 onwards

Sangam Hotel, Thanjavur

8.4 (127 reviews)

$ 47 onwards

Hotel Valli

7.4 (235 reviews)

$ 10 onwards

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FAQs on Thanjavur

What is famous about Thanjevur?

A beautiful display of cultural heritage and richness the country is associated with. The connectivity to the town is convenient with all modes of travel linking down to the city, and the stay in the town is pocket-friendly.

What is not so good about Thanjevur?

The place might not be a suitable visit all throughout the year. The weather fluctuations and the intense summers in the area can restrict your travel plans.

Who should visit Thanjevur?

Anyone wanting to witness the rich cultural heritage of the country, to roam the streets displaying beautiful handicraft and artwork, and to visit temple portraying people's believes and faith, Thanjevur might just be perfect for your next travel plan.

What is the best time to visit Thanjevur?

Thanjevur, located in the state of Tamil Nadu, experiences the typical tropical climate all throught the year. The summers are usually experienced with scorching sun and periods of high humidity, while monsoon is accompanied with light showers. Winters might just be your best pick to visit Thanjevur because of the pleasant climatic conditions around that time of the year.
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What is the local food in Thanjevur?

What is the best way to reach Thanjevur?

The major nearest city to Thanjevur is Tiruchirapalli, which is both the nearest International Airport and the railway station. The overall connectivity to Thanjevur, it being an important tourism centre, is convenient. Regular mode of transport from all major nearby cities are available to be boarded by tourist planning a trip to the city.
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How much does a package cost for Thanjevur?

The packages for Thanjevur start at INR 8000 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

What are the things to do in Thanjevur?

The top things to do in Thanjevur are Brahadeshwara Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Shiva Ganga Garden, Vijayanagar Fort, Thanjai Mamani Koil, Alangudi Guru Temple. You can see all the places to visit in Thanjevur here

What are the places near Thanjevur?

The top places near to Thanjevur are Pondicherry which is 146 km from Thanjevur, Kumbakonam which is located 34 km from Thanjevur, Munnar which is located 239 km from Thanjevur, Velankanni which is located 78 km from Thanjevur, Ooty which is located 274 km from Thanjevur

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Thanjavur Reviews

Your rating

Rohit Shroff 2 years ago

- Being a temple area, it is advisable to wear non-expensive slippers instead of shoes as taking them off again and again will be easier.

Arka Das 2 years ago

Walking distance from old bus stand. 5km from new bus stand (Fare INR 5/- on bus). Inside temple one can keep their luggage and shoes in lockers. Photography allowed inside the campus. During day it's pretty painful to walk bare footed over the rocks (it is advised to wear shocks if possible to avoid the heat)

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