Thanjavur: Travel Guide

Thanjavur, also known as Tanjore, is a city located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It was the capital of the Chola dynasty from the 9th to the 13th century, and is home to some of the most stunning examples of South Indian architecture and art. The city is famous for its temples, museums, palaces, and art galleries. In this blog, we will explore the top 10 things to do and see in Thanjavur, the top 10 shopping centers, travel options, and accommodation choices.

Things to Do and See

Brihadeeswara Temple: The Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Thanjavur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Thanjavur Palace: The Thanjavur Palace was the residence of the Maratha rulers of Thanjavur and is now a museum. It houses a collection of artifacts, including musical instruments, weaponry, and art.

Saraswathi Mahal Library: The Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest libraries in Asia and houses a collection of ancient manuscripts and books.

Sangeetha Mahal: Sangeetha Mahal is a music hall that was built during the Nayak dynasty. It is known for its excellent acoustics and is still used for musical performances.

Schwartz Church: The Schwartz Church was built by the Dutch in the 18th century and is known for its unique architecture.

Thanjavur Art Gallery: The Thanjavur Art Gallery houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from the Nayak and Maratha periods.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram: Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the capital of the Chola dynasty in the 11th century. It is known for its stunning architecture and sculptures.

Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple: The Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple is a famous temple dedicated to the goddess Mariamman. It is known for its colorful festivals and rituals.

Thiruvaiyaru: Thiruvaiyaru is a small town located near Thanjavur and is famous for its association with the composer Saint Tyagaraja. The town hosts an annual music festival in his honor.

Thanjavur Art Plate: Thanjavur is known for its unique art plates, which are made of brass or silver and are decorated with intricate designs.

Shopping Centers

Thanjavur Big Bazaar: Thanjavur Big Bazaar is a modern shopping mall that offers a variety of products, including clothing, electronics, and groceries.

Hi-Style: Hi-Style is a popular clothing store in Thanjavur that offers a range of traditional and modern clothing.

The Chennai Silks: The Chennai Silks is a famous textile store that offers a range of sarees, dress materials, and fabrics.

Raja Rajan Textiles: Raja Rajan Textiles is a textile store that offers a range of traditional sarees and dress materials.

Pothys: Pothys is a popular textile store that offers a range of sarees, dress materials, and fabrics.

Ramraj Cotton: Ramraj Cotton is a clothing store that specializes in cotton clothing for men.

Abirami Mega Mall: Abirami Mega Mall is a popular shopping mall that offers a range of products, including clothing, electronics, and groceries.

Shanmuga Stores: Shanmuga Stores is a popular store in Thanjavur that offers a variety of traditional sweets and savories.

Shri Karpagambal Kapaleeswarar Mess: Shri Karpagambal Kapaleeswarar Mess is a popular restaurant in Thanjavur that offers traditional South Indian cuisine.

Gandhi Market: Gandhi Market is a famous market in Thanjavur that offers a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, and other local produce.

Travel Options:

Thanjavur is well connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport, which is about 60 kilometers away from Thanjavur. The city is also well connected by rail, with regular trains running from Chennai, Bangalore, and other major cities in India. For local travel, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available.

Accommodation Choices:

Hotel Gnanam: Hotel Gnanam is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Thanjavur. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a range of dining options.

Hotel Sangam: Hotel Sangam is a 3-star hotel located on the banks of the River Cauvery. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a range of dining options.

Ideal River View Resort: Ideal River View Resort is a resort located on the banks of the River Cauvery. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a range of outdoor activities.

Svatma: Svatma is a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Thanjavur. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a range of dining options.

Star Residency: Star Residency is a 3-star hotel located in the heart of Thanjavur. It offers comfortable rooms and a range of dining options.

Hotel Parisutham: Hotel Parisutham is a 3-star hotel located in the heart of Thanjavur. It offers comfortable rooms and a range of dining options.

Lakshmi Hotel: Lakshmi Hotel is a budget hotel located in the heart of Thanjavur. It offers comfortable rooms and a range of dining options.

PL.A. Residency: PL.A. Residency is a budget hotel located in the heart of Thanjavur. It offers comfortable rooms and a range of dining options.

Hotel Oriental Towers: Hotel Oriental Towers is a 3-star hotel located in the heart of Thanjavur. It offers comfortable rooms and a range of dining options.

Ideal River View Resort: Ideal River View Resort is a resort located on the banks of the River Cauvery. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a range of outdoor activities.

Reference Links:

Brihadeeswara Temple

https://www.brihadeeswarartemple.com/

Thanjavur Palace

https://www.thanjavurpalace.gov.in/

Saraswathi Mahal Library

https://www.saraswathimahallibrary.tn.gov.in/

Sangeetha Mahal

https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/thanjavur/sangeetha-mahal.html

Schwartz Church

https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/thanjavur/schwartz-church.html

Thanjavur Art Gallery