Also referred to as Tanjore or the City of Temples, Thanjavur boasts significant cultural importance. Renowned for its famous Tanjore paintings, antiques, handicrafts, textiles, saris, Carnatic music, musical instruments, and, notably, its temples, the city holds a special place in the history and shaping of both ancient and modern South Indian civilization. With a rich historical heritage, Thanjavur plays a pivotal role in the development of southern Indian culture. It stands as a must-visit destination for pilgrims due to its religious significance, offering numerous religious sites within and around the district.
This is a space where the splendid and ever-evolving cultures of both the past and present seamlessly breathe life into and coexist in the daily fabric, imparting a distinctive and illustrious identity to the region.
The official residence of the Bhonsle family, rulers of the Tanjore region from 1674 to 1855, is the Thanjavur Maratha Palace Complex, locally known as Aranmanai. Originally named Sivaganga Fort, the palace is surrounded by a small moat providing security against potential enemies. Despite the common misconception of being built by Maratha Kings, the palace was constructed by Thanjavur Nayaks, with subsequent enhancements made by the Marathas to meet their requirements. Widely referred to as "Thanjavur Aranmanai" by the people of Tamil Nadu, the palace is a fascinating blend of ruin, renovation, remarkable art, and assorted royal artifacts. The complex, resembling a maze, has historical roots with construction initiated by the Nayaks in 1535 and continued by the local Maratha dynasty from 1676 to 1855. Noteworthy sections include the Saraswati Mahal Library Museum and the Art Gallery.
The main highlight of Thanjavur, the Brahadeshwara Temple, commonly known as the Big Temple, stands as an architectural masterpiece. Constructed under the rule of the illustrious Chola emperor, Raja Raja Chola, this temple is a marvel of craftsmanship. Surrounded by deep trenches on two sides and the Grand Anaicut River flowing nearby, the temple holds a special place in the hearts of pilgrims. The shrine, towering at a height of 216 feet, features paintings dating back to the Chola and Nayak periods. Welcoming visitors at the entrance is the impressive statue of Nandi, the sacred bull.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram served as the capital of the Chola Empire for over two centuries, playing a pivotal role in initiating one of the most remarkable reigns in Southern Indian history. Today, this historically significant city has transformed into a small village, with the Lord Siva temple standing as a symbol of its past grandeur. While often compared to Thanjavur, another influential Chola city, Gangaikonda Cholapuram offers a splendid opportunity to delve into its heritage, magnificence, and intricate stories, all securely preserved in the folds of history.
Situated approximately 2 km from the Brahadeeswara temple, the Vijayanagar Fort is a renowned tourist destination. Constructed by Nayaks and partially by Maratha rulers around 1550 AD, this majestic fort encompasses the Tanjore Palace, Sangeetha Mahal, Library, and an exquisite art gallery featuring numerous sculptures and paintings. The Shiva Ganga Gardens are also an integral part of this complex. Despite being mostly in ruins, the fort resonates with the strength and grandeur it undoubtedly possessed in its heyday.
Thanjai Mamani Koil, located near Thanjavur, comprises three Vishnu temples collectively known as Divyadesam. This site is part of the 108 such temple complexes in India. Rooted in one of the canonical myths about Lord Vishnu, the temple holds a local origin myth. Primarily, Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in his Narasimha avatar, which he assumed to vanquish the malevolent king Hiranyakashipu and protect his devotee Prahlad. The temple houses the idols depicting this divine episode. Devotees of Vishnu hold a deep affinity for and frequently visit this sacred shrine. The uniqueness of the temple lies in the opportunity it provides to witness three abodes of the Lord in one place, along with the presence of deities representing his consort and other associated gods.
The nearest airport to Thanjavur is Tiruchirapalli International Airport, approximately 56 kilometers away.
Thanjavur Junction is a major railway station well-connected to various cities in India.
Thanjavur has a well-developed road network, and it is easily accessible by road. Visitors can reach Thanjavur by bus or private vehicles.
Tamil Nadu
A standard meal typically includes rice, sambhar, two types of vegetables, curd, and a pickle. Additionally, the city presents a variety of South Indian dishes such as dosas, idlis, upma, parota, sambhar, rasam, pongal, paysam, kesari, and sweet pongal.
Tamil is widely spoken in this area. Hindi and English are also spoken in tourist areas.
The best time to visit Thanjavur is during the winter months and the beginning of summer, spanning from October to March, due to the pleasant climatic conditions aiding exploration.
