Thanjavur, also known as Tanjore, is one of South India’s most culturally rich and historically significant cities. Located in Tamil Nadu, this ancient city was once the capital of the mighty Chola dynasty and remains an important center of South Indian religion, art, and architecture. From majestic temples and royal palaces to centuries-old art forms and mouth-watering cuisine, Thanjavur has something for every traveler.
In this comprehensive guide, we take you through the Top 15 Things to Do in Thanjavur — a perfect blend of heritage, spirituality, and cultural experiences.
What to Do in Thanjavur – Top 15 Experiences:
1. Witness the Grandeur of Brihadeeswara Temple
One of the most iconic landmarks of India, the Brihadeeswara Temple (also called the Big Temple) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over 1000 years ago by the Chola King Raja Raja Chola I, the temple stands as a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture.
The 216-foot Vimana (temple tower) and the massive granite Nandi statue at the entrance are simply breathtaking. Intricate sculptures and Chola-era frescoes adorn the walls. The temple is also known for its unique shadowless tower and daily rituals, including the mesmerizing evening Aarti.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM & 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Tip: Visit early morning or late evening to enjoy the serenity and avoid crowds.
2. Explore the Thanjavur Maratha Palace Complex
The Maratha Palace, also known as the Nayak Palace, served as the official residence of the Thanjavur kings after the fall of the Chola dynasty. The sprawling complex features courtyards, majestic halls, royal gardens, and a collection of rare artifacts.
Don’t miss the Durbar Hall, known for its arched ceilings and painted walls. Within the palace grounds, you’ll find museums, an arsenal tower, and more historical treasures that offer insights into the region’s royal past.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreigners)
- Location: East Main Street, near the old bus stand
3. Visit the Ancient Saraswathi Mahal Library
One of the oldest and most remarkable libraries in Asia, the Saraswathi Mahal Library was established by the Nayak kings and later expanded by the Marathas. It houses a rich collection of over 49,000 manuscripts in various languages including Tamil, Sanskrit, Marathi, and Telugu.
The library also preserves ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, rare books, and maps. Although direct access to books is restricted, you can view selected exhibits in the adjoining museum.
- Must-See: Illustrated manuscripts and rare texts
- Best For: History enthusiasts and researchers
4. Chola Bronzes at the Raja Raja Cholan Art Gallery
Situated inside the palace complex, this gallery is a haven for art lovers. It showcases a priceless collection of Chola bronzes and stone sculptures from the 9th to 12th centuries.
Statues of Hindu deities like Nataraja, Vishnu, and Durga are displayed with detailed notes, offering insights into the religious and artistic life of the Chola era.
- Entry Fee: ₹10
- Photography: Restricted in some areas
- Duration: Allocate 1-2 hours for a complete visit
5. Admire the Craftsmanship of Tanjore Paintings
Tanjore paintings are a distinctive art form that originated in this very city. Known for their use of rich colors, gold leaf, and religious themes, these paintings are traditionally done on wood or cloth.
Visit artisan workshops and galleries near South Main Street to see how these paintings are made and even buy one as a souvenir.
- Tip: Ask for a demonstration to appreciate the intricate techniques involved.
- Popular Themes: Deities like Ganesha, Lakshmi, and Krishna
6. Relax at Sivaganga Park
Located near the Big Temple, Sivaganga Park is a family-friendly recreational area with lush gardens, paddle boating, and a small aquarium. It’s a great spot to unwind after a heritage tour.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹5
- Facilities: Children’s play area, toy train, snack stalls
7. Visit Tamil University
Tamil University in Thanjavur is a significant institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Tamil language and culture. The campus also includes a cultural museum and a sculpture garden.
Occasional classical music concerts and folk performances are held here, especially during Tamil festivals.
- Highlights: Language research, cultural archives
- Recommended For: Cultural scholars, students, and travelers interested in Tamil heritage
8. Shop for Handicrafts and Tanjore Dolls
Thanjavur is famous for its Tanjore Bommai – traditional bobblehead dolls with a rocking base. You’ll also find a range of brass and bronze idols, veena instruments, carved wooden pieces, and silk sarees in local markets.
- Best Places: Poompuhar showroom, Co-Optex stores, local stalls near the palace
- Ideal Souvenirs: Tanjore dolls, miniature paintings, Carnatic musical instruments
9. Attend the Natyanjali Dance Festival
Held every year during Maha Shivaratri (February–March), the Natyanjali Festival is a celebration of classical dance forms performed at the Brihadeeswara Temple.
Dancers from across India perform Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and more, offering a divine and artistic experience in the temple courtyard.
- Duration: 5 days
- Entry Fee: Free for all performances
- Tip: Arrive early to find a good viewing spot
10. Explore the Colonial-Era Schwartz Church
This modest white-washed church was built in 1779 by Raja Serfoji II in memory of his mentor, Christian missionary Rev. Schwartz. It’s located within the Brihadeeswara Temple complex — a unique mix of colonial and traditional influences.
- Highlights: Colonial architecture, calm surroundings
- Tip: Visit early morning for quiet reflection
11. Savor Authentic South Indian Cuisine
Thanjavur’s cuisine is rooted in Tamil Brahmin traditions. Meals are typically served on banana leaves and include sambar, rasam, kootu, poriyal, vatha kuzhambu, and curd rice.
Don’t miss the traditional Sweet Pongal, filter coffee, and spicy Thanjavur biryani.
Top Eateries:
- Hotel Gnanam
- Sathars Restaurant
- Sree Ariya Bhavan
12. Offer Prayers at Punnainallur Mariamman Temple
A short distance from the heart of Thanjavur, the revered Punnainallur Mariamman Temple stands as a spiritual sanctuary devoted to the goddess believed to protect devotees from illnesses and misfortunes. Devotees come here seeking blessings for good health and family welfare.
- Distance: 6 km from Thanjavur
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Special Days: Fridays and festival days see large crowds
13. Visit the Rajaraja Mani Mandapam
This memorial, built in honor of Raja Raja Chola I, is surrounded by well-kept gardens and provides a calm setting perfect for a relaxed evening stroll.
A simple yet meaningful site, the Mandapam also displays inscriptions and sculptures related to the king’s achievements.
- Location: Near Medical College Road
- Entry: Free
- Best Time: Sunset for beautiful lighting
14. Immerse in Melattur Bhagavata Mela
About 30 km from Thanjavur, the small village of Melattur hosts the annual Bhagavata Mela, a unique theatrical art form combining music, dance, and storytelling rooted in devotion.
The performances, held in honor of Lord Narasimha, are a rare cultural experience and offer a glimpse into ancient village traditions.
- When: April–May (Narasimha Jayanthi)
- Duration: 7–10 days
- Entry: Free
15. Take a Temple Trail Day Trip
Thanjavur serves as a perfect base to explore nearby heritage temples:
- Gangaikonda Cholapuram: Known as the twin of Brihadeeswara Temple
- Darasuram’s Airavatesvara Temple: Another UNESCO site known for musical steps
- Kumbakonam: Home to dozens of revered temples and great coffee
- Distance from Thanjavur: 35–45 km
- Mode of Travel: Taxis, local buses, or guided tours
Best Time to Visit Thanjavur
Thanjavur is best visited from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summers tend to be intensely hot, and the monsoon months often experience heavy rainfall.
Festival seasons like Navaratri, Margazhi (December–January) and Natyanjali are perfect for cultural immersion.
How to Reach Thanjavur
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), 60 km away.
- By Train: Thanjavur is well-connected by rail to Chennai, Madurai, Rameswaram, and Coimbatore.
- By Road: Regular bus and taxi services are available from major Tamil Nadu cities.
Where to Stay in Thanjavur
Whether you’re a budget traveler or a luxury seeker, Thanjavur has options for all:
- Budget: Oriental Towers, Tanjore Hi Heritage Boutique Hotel
- Mid-Range: Lakshmi Hotel, Hotel Gnanam
- Luxury: Sangam Hotel, Ideal River View Resort
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Remove footwear before entering temples
- Dress conservatively
- Carry cash as many places don’t accept cards
- Learn basic Tamil words to ease communication.
- Always carry a hat and water during day excursions
Conclusion
Thanjavur is more than just a destination — it’s a journey through centuries of South Indian grandeur, spiritual depth, and artistic brilliance. Whether you’re tracing the legacy of the Cholas, admiring divine art forms, or savoring authentic Tamil cuisine, every corner of Thanjavur tells a story that deserves to be heard.
Plan your trip today and uncover the cultural soul of Tamil Nadu with these top 15 unforgettable experiences.
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