THANJAVUR

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Thanjavur

 

Residing in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the city of Thanjavur is popular for its centuries-old temples which are UNESCO World Heritage Monuments. The city is also home to the world-famous Tanjore paintings which are a popular form of art. The town is also popularly known as Tanjore.

 

Best time to visit Thanjavur / Tanjore

Thanjavur just like any other South Indian state has a tropical climate with warm and hot weather all year round. The best time to visit would be from November to February due to warm comfortable days and cool nights. The Carnatic Music Festival, known as the Thyagaraja Aradhana also takes place during this time.

 

Places to see in Thanjavur / Tanjore

 

Brihadeeswara Temple

The Brihadeeswara Temple is the major attraction of Thanjavur. This is also popularly known as the Big Temple and was built during the reign of the Great Chola Emperors. This temple is an ancient architectural marvel and is a well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Although a bit far from the city’s centre, this place is the greatest example of the early architectural greatness of ancient India. Built during the rule of the Chola emperors, this popular temple is also a popular heritage site.

 

Vijayanagar Fort

The Vijayanagar Fort is another famous tourist spot located 2km from the city. This majestic fort is anexample of the architectural charm of Thanjavur and was built by the Nayaks and the Maratha rulers in the mid-15th century AD.

 

 

Alangudi Guru Temple

The Alangudi Temple is believed to be the abode of Lord Guru and like all the others exemplifies the early civilisation architectural genius of India. According to myths, Lord Shiva had consumed the deadly poison in this place and was named Alangudi after the name of the poison.

 

Things to do in Thanjavur / Tanjore

 

Watching Bharatanatyam

Thanjavur is popular for its portrayal of the Carnatic dance and music forms. You can always check out the local Bharatanatyam shows and relish the Carnatic music and its beauty.

 

Tanjore Shopping

Thanjavur is very famous for Tanjore paintings and dolls. These two are the cultural identifiers of this place. It is a good idea to visit the local markets and buy paintings and dolls which are the best examples of the cultural heritage of this place.

 

Visiting the Saraswathi Mahal Library

What is the best way to know about a place other than visiting its local libraries? The Saraswathi Mahal Library is another cultural heritage in Thanjavur, and you can take some time to visit this place. Be prepared to be amazed at the 49,000 volumes of books including some palm manuscripts.

 

How to reach Thanjavur / Tanjore?

 

Closest Railway Station/bus stop to Thanjavur

Thanjavur Railway Station in the centre of the city that has daily express trains to most of the major cities of India.

Thanjavur is well connected to the major cities of Tamil Nadu including Chennai, Vellore, and Madurai through bus services. The city is also connected via many important National Highways.

 

Closest Airport to Thanjavur / Tanjore

The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport that has both domestic and international flight availability regularly.Tiruchirappalli International Airport is located at 61 kms from Thanjavur/ Tanjore. It takes roughly one – two hours to drive depending on traffic.