Thanjavur – The Cultural and Heritage Hub of Tamil Nadu

Thanjavur, also known as Tanjore, is a historic city in Tamil Nadu renowned for its majestic temples, classical art forms, and rich cultural heritage. It is famous for the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its ancient temples, palaces, and traditional Thanjavur paintings. A Thanjavur tour package offers a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and culture, making it a must-visit destination in South India.

Top Places to Visit in Thanjavur

1. Brihadeeswarar Temple:
   • The crown jewel of Thanjavur, also known as the Big Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
   • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its massive vimana (tower), rising 66 meters, and a 13-foot-tall monolithic Nandi statue.
   • The intricate carvings and frescoes depict the grandeur of Chola architecture.
   • The temple’s shadow never falls on the ground at noon due to its architectural brilliance.
2. Thanjavur Maratha Palace:
   • A 17th-century palace built by the Marathas, showcasing royal architecture and history.
   • Houses the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which contains ancient manuscripts and rare palm-leaf texts.
   • The Royal Museum exhibits artifacts, royal portraits, and weaponry from the Maratha era.
   • Offers stunning panoramic views of Thanjavur city from its bell tower.
3. Saraswathi Mahal Library:
   • One of the oldest libraries in Asia, famous for its rare palm-leaf manuscripts, ancient books, and historical records.
   • A treasure trove for history and literature enthusiasts.
   • Located within the Thanjavur Maratha Palace complex.
4. Gangaikonda Cholapuram:
   • A UNESCO World Heritage Site located around 70 km from Thanjavur.
   • Built by Rajendra Chola I, it is known for its intricate sculptures and massive temple complex.
   • Famous for its towering vimana and exquisite stone carvings.
5. Swamimalai Murugan Temple:
   • Located 5 km from Kumbakonam and around 35 km from Thanjavur, this is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan (Arupadai Veedu).
   • The temple’s 60 stone steps represent the 60 Tamil years in the Hindu calendar.
   • Famous for its spiritual significance and scenic surroundings.
6. Thanjavur Art Gallery:
   • Located inside the Maratha Palace, it houses a collection of Chola-era bronze statues, stone sculptures, and ancient paintings.
   • A must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
7. Alangudi Guru Temple:
   • Dedicated to Lord Guru (Jupiter), this is one of the Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu.
   • Located around 17 km from Thanjavur, it attracts devotees seeking spiritual blessings and astrological remedies.
8. Punnainallur Mariamman Temple:
   • A famous Amman temple located 7 km from Thanjavur.
   • Known for its spiritual significance and the belief in divine healing powers of the deity.
9. Kumbakonam:
   • Located around 40 km from Thanjavur, Kumbakonam is famous for its temples, heritage sites, and Mahamaham festival.
   • Top attractions include Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Sarangapani Temple, and Mahamaham Tank.
10. Manora Fort:

• A historic fort and watchtower located around 65 km from Thanjavur.
• Built by King Serfoji II in 1814, it offers scenic coastal views.
• Ideal for photography and history buffs.

Best Time to Visit

• Ideal Season: October to March (pleasant weather for sightseeing).
• Summer (April to June): Warm but suitable for temple visits and indoor attractions.
• Monsoon (July to September): Heavy rains, enhancing the greenery and scenic beauty.

Thanjavur Tour Package Options

1. Thanjavur Heritage and Temple Tour (2 Days/1 Night)

• Day 1: Arrival in Thanjavur → Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, Maratha Palace, and Saraswathi Mahal Library.
• Day 2: Excursion to Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Swamimalai Murugan Temple → Departure.

2. Thanjavur and Kumbakonam Spiritual Tour (3 Days/2 Nights)

• Day 1: Arrival in Thanjavur → Explore Brihadeeswarar Temple, Maratha Palace, and Art Gallery.
• Day 2: Visit Swamimalai Murugan Temple and Alangudi Guru Temple.
• Day 3: Excursion to Kumbakonam temples → Departure.

3. Thanjavur Temple and Art Heritage Tour (4 Days/3 Nights)

• Day 1: Arrival in Thanjavur → Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, Maratha Palace, and Saraswathi Mahal Library.
• Day 2: Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Swamimalai Murugan Temple.
• Day 3: Excursion to Kumbakonam temples, including Adi Kumbeswarar Temple and Sarangapani Temple.
• Day 4: Departure after visiting Punnainallur Mariamman Temple.