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.

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.

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.

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.
View Top Restaurants in 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.