Tanjore (now, it’s known as Thanjavur) is an abode of some world-renowned temples. It is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu, India. Thanjavur holds a rich historical significance.
Moreover, the age-old culture of this South Indian city is worth exploring for tourists. The place combines Carnatic music, exquisite textiles & paintings, and handicrafts together. The uniqueness, authenticity, and charm of Thanjavur have made it a haven for travelers.
Are you excited to try out the delectable cuisine of Thanjavur? Then, mouthwatering vadas, idlis, dosas, uttapams, etc are ready to welcome you. Non-vegetarians will also find Thanjavur an ideal place for foodies. Indulging in seafood like lobsters, crabs, fish, and lots more creates a unique experience.
In simple words, Thanjavur is a mesmerizing temple city with a rich heritage and legacy. Enrich yourself and mesmerize your senses with historical specimens of Thanjavur. It’s time to talk about the 10 best tourist attractions of Thanjavur that you should not miss.
Here is a list of Top 10 Tourist Spots in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu:
1. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
Can we call Gangaikonda Cholapuram a perfect specimen of the Chola dynasty? Visit and decide for yourself. For your information, Gangaikonda Cholapuram used to be the capital city of this empire. It continued to serve as the capital city for about two centuries.
The enthralling architecture depicts the glorious history of Thanjavur. Gangaikonda Cholapuram has now converted into a village. A Lord Shiva Temple is a key attraction of this heritage site. Read Also: Top Places to Visit South India In April.
2. Thanjai Mamani Koil
Do you want to have peace of mind? Are you looking to purify your mind, body, and soul? Then, if you are in Thanjavur, do not forget to visit Thanjai Mamani Koil.
It is a spectacular combination of three Vishnu temples. These three temples are jointly referred to as “Divyadesam.” Many devotees come to Thanjai Mamani Koil to seek blessings from Lord Vishnu. Read Also: Places Visit in South India in December.
3. Schwartz Church
Did you know Schwartz Church is among the oldest churches in our country? Sarfoji II, who was a Maratha ruler, founded Schwartz Church in around 1779.
If you want to feel the colonial legacy of Thanjavur, add Schwartz Church to your itinerary. The lush greenery and scenic beauty of Schwartz Church will amaze you. Read Also: Famous Places to Visit in South India in January.
4. Vijayanagar Fort
Another architectural specimen of the rich history of Thanjavur is Vijayanagar Fort. The Marathas and the Nayaks founded this marvel in 1550 AD. Visit Vijayanagar Fort. And you will get to explore Sangeetha Mahal and a mesmerizing Tanjore Palace.
Moreover, an enchanting art gallery coupled with a library is also present here. Do not fail to visit the extraordinary Shiva Ganga garden inside the fort. Read Also: Best Places to Visit South India in February.
5. Chandra Bhagwan Temple
Another popular temple of Thanjavur is Chandra Bhagwan Temple. As the name suggests, the holy moon god is the deity of this famous temple. Chandra Bhagwan Temple has great importance in devotees’ hearts. The intricate architecture of this place will mesmerize you. Read Also: Popular Places to Visit in South India in August.
6. Saraswathi Mahal Library
Are you an avid reader? Then, why not add Saraswathi Mahal Library to your Thanjavur itinerary? In short, Saraswathi Mahal Library is among the marvelous libraries of our country. It carries the rich heritage and legacy of ancient periods. The Nayak rulers constructed this remarkable library in the 16th to 17th centuries.
Nonetheless, Serforji II (a Maratha king) took care of this library. Saraswathi Mahal Library will welcome you with a rich collection of many objects. It includes manuscripts, paintings, arts, and maps. Read Also: South India visit during Monsoon.
7. Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple
The Punnai Nallur Mariamman temple is among the most renowned temples in Tamil Nadu. Goddess Mariamman is the deity of this temple.
The architectural specimen depicts the glory of the Dravidian style. Visit the Punnai Nallur Mariamman temple. Find peace of mind with the blessings of the Almighty. Read Also: South India’s Best Places to Visit in winter.
8. Thanjavur Royal Palace
Do not miss exploring Thanjavur Royal Palace when you are on your Thanjavur trip. Locals call this place “Aranmanai”. Thanjavur Nayak rulers constructed this architectural marvel.
The royal family of Thanjavur resides here. However, a couple of other mesmerizing buildings are there. It includes Durbar Hall, Sadar Mahal Palace, and the enchanting queen’s courtyard. Thanjavur Royal Palace also houses a gallery to showcase antique Chola bronzes. Read Also: Winter Packing List for South India Trip.
9. Brihadeeswarar Temple
The Brihadeeswarar Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thanjavur city. It displays a mesmerizing Chola architectural legacy. You will witness a temple tower on the Brihadeeswarar Temple’s premises. It is known as “Vimana,” which is around 66 meters high. The temple has completed 1,000 years in 2010 as among the top Thanjavur attractions. Read Also: Facts about Meenakshi Amman Temple.
10. Thanjavur Art Gallery
Your Thanjavur trip will remain incomplete without visiting Thanjavur Art Gallery. The extraordinary Tanjore paintings are popular in the world. The same goes for Tanjore Dolls. Have a great time witnessing awe-inspiring creations. You can also purchase one to make your Thanjavur trip memorable. The art pieces of Thanjavur Art Gallery are eye-catching vibrant, and enthralling.
The Thanjavur Art Gallery started its journey in 1951. Visit this heritage and explore exquisite artistic imagination, expertise, and talent. The Maratha, Nayak, and Chola rulers owned these arts and sculptures. The source of these ancient sculptures is the distant locations of Thanjavur.
Do not forget to visit Nageswaraswami Temple and Gangaikondacholapuram temple. Also, add Airavateswara Temple to your itinerary of Thanjavur.
Some other popular tourist destinations of Thanjavur are:
- Maratha Palace
- Poondi Madha Basilica
- Kandiyur
- Swami Malai Temple
- Our Lady Of Sorrows Church
How to Reach Thanjavur?
You can arrive at Thanjavur via air, train, and road. The nearest airport to Thanjavur is Tiruchirapalli. You can travel to many domestic and international cities via this airport.
Moreover, the nearest, important railway station to Thanjavur is Tiruchirapalli. Note that Thanjavur has great connectivity by road as well. So, you can reach Thanjavur from any city in Tamil Nadu by road.
What is the Best Time to Visit Thanjavur?
October to March is the perfect time to discover this beautiful place.
Wrapping Up
What is the cultural capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu? The answer is “Thanjavur.” If you want to explore the rich glorious history of the Chola Empire, plan a trip to Thanjavur. The weather remains cool and ideal to explore tourist attractions. Thanjavur houses 74 temples and the Sri Brihadeswara temple is the most popular one.
Are you excited to visit Thanjavur to witness some architectural marvels and rich traditions? Then, why are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Thanjavur today. The remainders of various ancient dynasties will welcome you to tell their stories. So, whether you are a history buff or not, visit Thanjavur to explore something unique.
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