Located at 350 kms from Tamil Nadu’s Capital Chennai, the city of Thanjavur or Tanjore is a treasure trove of art, religion and architecture, which makes it an amazing tourist destination. Various dynasties like - Cholas, Pandiyas, Nayaks, Thanjavur and Marathas ruled the place. Home to the “Great Living Chola Temples” - a world heritage site, Thanjavur is a prominent pilgrim place and notable for being the origin of renowned Tanjore painting. The scenic place with its lush green paddy fields and swaying coconut palms establishes itself as an enthralling place of Tamil Nadu.
Sightseeing in Thanjavur starts with exploring its impressive temples. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the 11th Century Sri Brahadeeswarar Temple was built by the Chola Emperor Raja Raja Cholan I. It is also known as the ‘Big Temple’ and is based on the Dravidian style of architecture presenting a fine example of the region’s architectural brilliance. A 13-feet tall Shivalinga along with wonderful paintings belonging to the Chola and Nayak periods grace this world heritage site. At its entrance, there is the statue of Nandi - the bull.
At 2 kms from Sri Brahadeeswarar Temple, the Vijayanagar Fort attracts tourists with its grandeur. The Nayak kings built this glorious fort and some of its part was constructed by the Maratha rulers. Inside the fort, one finds magnificent Tanjore Palace, Sangeetha Mahal and a library. There is also a fine art gallery containing many sculptures and paintings. The well-preserved Shiva Ganga Garden is worth a visit here. Though most portions of the fort are now in ruins, it is certainly an ideal place for history buffs.
Built by Raja Serfoji II in the 18th Century, the Schwarz Church is a beautiful structure made of white marble. It was constructed in the honour of Danish missionary Reverend Frederick Christian Schwartz. Exquisite carvings portraying the final moments of Schwartz adorn the church.
The Aalangudi Temple is the holy abode of Lord Guru or Jupiter. Devotees in huge number visit the divine place on Thursday which is considered to be an auspicious day. The major festivals here are Guru Payirchi, Chitra Pournami, Tai Poosam and Panguni Utharam. Thanjavur is replete with many other famous temples and Chandra Bagwan Temple is one of them which is dedicated to the Moon God.
One can shop for sarees and paintings in Thanjavur which are world-famous for their uniqueness. Tourists will also love to buy Thalaiyatti Bommai- a dancing doll with a moving head. Its local markets can be visited to get some bronze items.
By Air: At 54 km, Trichy is the nearest airport. It connects Thanjavur to all Indian and international cities. From the airport, tourists can hire taxis to reach there.
By Rail: Thanjavur Junction is the closest railway station. Regular trains connect it to all major parts of the country.
By Road: There are regular buses from Thiruvananthapuram, Kanyakumari, Madurai, Chennai and other Tamil Nadu cities to Thanjavur.
Our team is 24/7 at your service to help you with your booking issues or answer any related questions
USA: +1 786 396 4200
India: +91 971 730 0203
Caper Travel is engaged with the Travelife certification program
