Tanjore (Thanjavur)—the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu—is a city of ancient temples, classical art, and rich heritage. Known for the iconic Brihadeeswarar Temple, this historic city was once the capital of the Chola Dynasty, a period that saw remarkable advancements in architecture, sculpture, and literature to Visit Tanjore.
From magnificent temples and royal palaces to Tanjore paintings and Carnatic music, Thanjavur offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and artistic brilliance. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or an art lover, this guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Tanjore—from top attractions and the best time to visit to travel tips and how to reach the city.
Why Visit Tanjore?
A City of Culture, Art & Heritage
Tanjore is one of South India greatest cultural treasures, offering travelers a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s glorious past. Here’s why you should add Tanjore to your travel list:
Architectural Marvels: Home to the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple, one of the finest examples of Dravidian architecture.
Rich History: A city that flourished under the Chola, Nayak, and Maratha dynasties.
Artistic Heritage: Birthplace of the famous Tanjore paintings, known for their intricate gold leaf work.
Carnatic Music & Dance: A hub for classical South Indian music and Bharatanatyam.
Spiritual Vibes: A city dotted with ancient temples, making it a great place for religious and spiritual tourism.
Top Attractions in Tanjore
1. Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Why Visit? The crown jewel of Tanjore, built in 1010 AD by Chola king Raja Raja Chola I.
- Highlights:
- Massive 66-meter-tall Vimana (tower)—one of the tallest in India.
- A 5-meter-tall Shiva Lingam inside the sanctum.
- A 25-ton monolithic Nandi (bull statue) carved from a single stone.
- Exquisite frescoes and sculptures depicting Chola history.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening to witness the temple’s beauty in soft sunlight.
2. Thanjavur Maratha Palace
- Why Visit? A 17th-century palace showcasing the grandeur of Maratha rulers who ruled Tanjore after the Nayaks.
- Highlights:
- Saraswathi Mahal Library—a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts and palm-leaf texts.
- Durbar Hall—a beautifully decorated chamber with grand paintings of Maratha kings.
- Bell Tower & Secret Chambers—offering panoramic views of the city.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning to explore comfortably before it gets too hot.
Check more Itineraries for Tamil Nadu tour
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3. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
- Why Visit? A UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Rajendra Chola I, the son of Raja Raja Chola.
- Highlights:
- Similar in design to Brihadeeswarar Temple but with more refined carvings.
- Features a massive Shiva Lingam and stunning stone reliefs.
- Less crowded compared to Brihadeeswarar Temple, offering a peaceful experience.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for the best photography conditions.
4. Schwartz Church
- Why Visit? A historical Christian church, built in 1779 by the Marathas for Danish missionary Rev. Schwartz.
- Highlights:
- A unique blend of Indian and European architectural styles.
- Peaceful ambiance, ideal for quiet reflection.
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day.
5. Thanjavur Art Gallery
- Why Visit? One of the best places to see ancient sculptures, bronze idols, and paintings.
- Highlights:
- Houses rare Chola and Nayak-era bronze idols.
- Showcases the famous Tanjore paintings with gold leaf embellishments.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or afternoon.
6. Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram
- Why Visit? Another UNESCO-listed Chola temple, located 35 km from Tanjore.
- Highlights:
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva and famous for intricate stone carvings.
- Unique chariot-shaped temple structure.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening.
Best Time to Visit Tanjore
| Season | Months | Weather Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – February | Pleasant (20°C – 30°C) | Sightseeing, temple visits, and cultural exploration |
| Summer | March – June | Hot (30°C – 42°C) | Early morning temple visits, avoid midday heat |
| Monsoon | July – October | Moderate rainfall (25°C – 35°C) | Green landscapes, but humidity can be high |
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is cool and perfect for exploring.
How to Reach Tanjore?
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) – 50 km from Tanjore.
- Flights Available: Direct flights from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and international cities like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
- Airport Transfers: Taxis and buses are available from Trichy to Tanjore.
Travel By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Thanjavur Junction (TJ).
- Major Trains:
- Rockfort Express (Chennai – Tanjore)
- Cholan Express (Chennai – Tanjore)
- Mysuru – Mayiladuthurai Express
- Connectivity: Well-connected to Chennai, Bangalore, Madurai, Coimbatore, and Trichy.
By Road
- Nearest Cities:
- Trichy (50 km) – 1-hour drive.
- Madurai (190 km) – 3.5-hour drive.
- Chennai (350 km) – 6-7 hour drive.
- Bus Services: Regular TNSTC and private buses available from major cities.
- Self-Drive: Roads are well-maintained, making it an ideal road trip destination.
Where to Stay in Tanjore?
| Hotel Name | Category | Location | Price Range (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Svatma | Luxury | Near Brihadeeswarar Temple | ₹7,000 – ₹12,000/night |
| Ideal River View Resort | Mid-Range | On the Banks of River Cauvery | ₹3,500 – ₹7,000/night |
| Hotel Gnanam | Budget | City Center | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500/night |
| Lakshmi Hotel | Budget | Near Railway Station | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000/night |
Final Thoughts
Tanjore is more than just a temple town—it’s a living museum of South Indian culture, art, and history. Whether you’re admiring the Brihadeeswarar Temple, exploring ancient palaces, or enjoying the city’s vibrant art scene, for visit Tanjore offers an enriching experience for every traveler.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Tamil Nadu, make sure Tanjore is on your itinerary—it’s a journey back in time to the golden age of Dravidian heritage and artistry!
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