About Thanjavur

Thanjavur, located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, is a captivating city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels, making it a popular destination for tourists. The city's main attraction is the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases remarkable Dravidian architecture. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is adorned with intricate carvings and towering vimanas (temple towers), leaving visitors awestruck.

Thanjavur is also known for its vibrant art and music scene, with the Tanjore painting style and classical Carnatic music flourishing in the region. The city is home to several museums, including the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery, which display exquisite artifacts and historic treasures. With its rich history, architectural wonders, and cultural treasures, Thanjavur offers a mesmerizing experience for those seeking to explore India's diverse heritage.

Tourist Attractions In Thanjavur : 10

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1: Brihadeshwara Temple (thanjavur)

The Brihadeshwara Temple stands as a remarkable testament to the Chola Dynasty's extraordinary advancements in Tamil architecture. This monumental temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, holds the distinction of being India's largest temple and the world's first structure of its kind, entirely constructed from granite. The temple's awe-inspiring grandeur, combined with its architectural brilliance, has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list as part of the Greatest Living Chola Temples. Rajaraja Chola I was the visionary behind its construction. Adhering to the Dravidian style of architecture, the Brihadeshwara Temple houses a sacred statue of a Nandi Bull, believed to have been sculpted from a single rock formation and weighing an astounding 25 tonnes. The temple's magnificence captivates visitors, evoking a sense of tranquility and leaving them in awe of its extraordinary beauty.

2: Airavatesvara Temple

The Airavateshwara Temple stands as one of the prominent attractions in Darasuram, drawing a multitude of devotees year-round. According to legend, it is at this very site that Airavata, the celestial white elephant of the king of gods, performed worship to Lord Shiva in order to be relieved of a curse bestowed upon him by Sage Durvasa. Additionally, it is believed that Lord Yama, the Hindu God of Death, also sought the blessings of Lord Shiva in this temple. Within the temple, Lord Shiva is revered as Lord Airavateshwara. The architectural splendor of the temple showcases exemplary early Dravidian temple craftsmanship, adorned with intricate stone carvings that captivate the eye. This sacred site holds immense historical and religious significance, offering devotees and visitors alike an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage and devotion associated with the Airavateshwara Temple.

3: Papanasam

Papanasam literally translates to destruction of sins. It is a town located in Thanjavur district about 10 kilometres from Darasuram. The town is 25 kilometres from the district’s headquarters of Thanjavur, and 15 kilometres from the town of Kumbakonam. Papanasam is most famous for the Pallaivanatha Swamy Temple that is located here. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Cholas. The town also has a huge granary which was constructed by the Nayaks. The Granary is expansive and has a capacity of 3000 kalam. It is 36 ft high and 86 ft wide. It is built in limestone and is believed to have been constructed between 1600 and 1634 AD. The Architectural Survey of India has declared it as a heritage monument.

4: Agniswarar Swami Temple

The temple of Agniswarar Swami in Kanjanoor, is located on the Northern bank of Cauvery River. It is approximately 15 kms away from the north east of city Kumbakonam. The temple is dedicated to Venus planet, and is the 6th Navagraha Sthalam amongst the 9 Navagraha Temples situated in Tamil Nadu. The presiding deities of the temple are Shiva and Parvati. Lord Shiva is idolized here as Agniswarar and Goddess Parvati are idolized as Karpagambal. People throng the temple of offer worship to Lord Sukra or the planet Venus to usher auspiciousness and to avoid the malefic planetary effects of the planet in accordance with one's birth chart. Agniswarar temple has 2 prakarams. Kalikamar and Manakanjarar are the other shrines of this temple. Visitors can see the stone images of Sivakami and Natarajar and inscriptions from the eras of Vijayanagar and Chola can also be seen in the temple. The Nataraja sabha is called Mukti mandapam and the Shiva tandavam is famous as mukti tandavam.

5: Cauvery

Cauvery is one of the largest Indian rivers that have its origin from the Talakaveri, Kodagu in the southern state of Karnataka. The river is seven hundred and sixty five kilometres long. There are many tributaries of this river and this river mainly flows through Tamil Nadu. Shimsha, Amaravati, Noyil and Bhabani are the main tributaries of the Cauvery River. It is true that massive hydroelectric projects are going on through Tamil Nadu with the help of this river. The river is being considered to be very auspicious by the Hindus and various rites and rituals are being performed by the members of this religious community on the banks of the river. The river is considered as Goddess as it has its reference in the Puranas. Kanjanoor is situated on the Northern bank of Cauvery River which is one of the 9 Navagraha Sthalas in Tamil Nadu.

6: Patteeswaram

Patteeswaram is a serene and unassuming village situated approximately 8 kilometers from the town of Kumbakonam. Its name derives from Patti, the calf of Kamadhenu, a revered holy cow in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Patti, the calf, worshipped Lord Shiva at this very location, giving rise to the name Patteeswaram. The village is renowned for its temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles from the Pallava, Chola, and Nayak eras. Over the ages, the temple has undergone multiple constructions and renovations. As per popular belief, Lord Rama himself visited Patteeswaram and installed three Shivalingams to absolve himself of the sin incurred from slaying Ravana. It is also believed that Lord Rama constructed a well here for performing ablutions to the Shivalingams, with the waters from Dhanushkodi believed to have been brought to this very spot.

7: Pazhayarai

Pazhayarai, believed to have served as the former capital of the illustrious Chola Dynasty, boasts a collection of ancient temples dating back to that era. Among these, the prominent Pazhaiyarai Someswarar Temple, also known as Pazhayarai Vadathali, stands out. Situated approximately 6 kilometers from Kumbakonam and even closer to Darasuram, it is a mere 3 kilometers away from the latter. This temple is a significant pilgrimage site and a must-visit for enthusiasts. Conveniently located near the Darasuram railway station, Pazhayarai Vadathali is one of four remarkable ancient temples in Pazhayarai, the others being Metrali, Kelthali, and Thenthali, each showcasing its own architectural splendor.

8: Thirunallar

Tirunallur, situated on the outskirts of Darasuram, is a village located approximately 8 kilometers away in the Orathanadu Taluk of Thanjavur district. Renowned for its Kalyanasundareswar Temple, this village holds great religious significance. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Kalyanasundareswar. Believed to have been constructed during the era of the Chola Dynasty, the temple serves as a vital place of worship and attracts devotees from far and wide throughout the year. To reach the temple conveniently, one can board a bus bound for Tirunallur from Darasuram. Alternatively, the Sundaraperumal Kovil Railway Station is in close proximity to Tirunallur, offering train connectivity for those seeking to visit this sacred site.

9: Thanjavur Royal Palace

Situated within the Vijaynagara fort complex and was known to be residence of the Nayak Kings. Within the palace premises, there are a lot of places worth visiting like the Nayak Hall, Saraswati Mahal library and the durbar hall. The Nayak Hall is where the artefacts from the Chola kingdom. The durbar hall is said to have been built by the Marathas and has the throne canopy decorated with mirror work. This place is a must visit when visiting Thanjavur.

10: Thirukarukavur

Thirukarukavur, a small village in Tamil Nadu is situated in the district of Thanjavur. This sleepy village is around 20 kms from the town of Thanjavur and some 20 kms from the town of Kumbhakam. Though Thirukarukavur is a small village, it is well known all over India as it houses the famous Arulmigu Mullai Vana Nathar Temple. Thousands of visitors come to this place every year to pay their visit to this renowned temple. Arulmigu Mullai Vana Nathar Temple, also known as Garbarakshambigai Temple, is dedicated to Goddess Garbarakshambigai, one of the incarnations of Goddess Parvati. Paying homage to the residing Goddess Garbarakshambigai is considered to be holy for couples who are expecting children.

How To Reach Thanjavur

By Air - The closest International Airport to Thanjavur is in Trichy at a distance of around 61 kms.

By Train - Thanjavur Junction is a railway station situated in the Thanjavur district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, serving the city of Thanjavur.

By Road - Thanjavur is connected with major cities in Tamil Nadu by private tourist buses as well as those of the Tamil Nadu Road Transport Corporation. Regular bus services exist from Trichy and Madurai to Thanjavur.

Local Transport - Auto rickshaw, tourist cabs, cycle rickshaws are available.

Traditional Food (Regional cusine of Thanjavur)

Here are some famous traditional dishes and places to eat in Thanjavur:

1. Sree Ariya Bhavan:

- Specialty: South Indian Thali and Sambar Rice.

- Location: South Rampart, Thanjavur.

- Why Visit: A renowned vegetarian restaurant, Sree Ariya Bhavan is known for its wholesome South Indian Thali, complete with sambar, rasam, and fresh curries, offering a true taste of Tamil Nadu.

2. Sathars:

- Specialty: Biryani and Non-Veg Meals.

- Location: Gandhiji Road.

- Why Visit: For non-vegetarian food lovers, Sathars offers a mouthwatering selection of biryanis and traditional Tamil Nadu-style non-veg meals, including chicken and mutton dishes.

3. Ayyampettai Kari Kadai:

- Specialty: Kari Dosa and Mutton Biryani.

- Location: Ayyampettai, Thanjavur.

- Why Visit: A hidden gem, this small eatery is famous for its Kari Dosa, a dosa topped with spiced mutton, and its flavorful mutton biryani, loved by locals and visitors alike.

4. Hotel Gnanam:

- Specialty: Authentic South Indian Meals.

- Location: Anna Salai.

- Why Visit: Known for its simple yet delicious traditional South Indian meals, Hotel Gnanam serves fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and spicy chutneys, making it a great spot for breakfast or lunch.

5. Thillana Restaurant:

- Specialty: Chettinad Cuisine.

- Location: Svatma Hotel.

- Why Visit: Thillana offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on Chettinad cuisine, which is known for its spicy and aromatic flavors. Their Chettinad chicken curry is a must-try.

6. Lakshmi Vilas:

- Specialty: Pongal and Vadai.

- Location: East Main Street.

- Why Visit: Lakshmi Vilas is the go-to spot for a traditional Tamil breakfast, serving delicious Pongal, a savory rice and lentil dish, along with crispy vadais and hot filter coffee.

7. New Prakash Café:

- Specialty: Masala Dosa and Filter Coffee.

- Location: Anna Salai.

- Why Visit: A favorite among locals, New Prakash Café is famous for its crispy masala dosa, served with coconut chutney and sambhar, and its perfect cup of South Indian filter coffee.

8. Sri Venkatesa Bhavan:

- Specialty: Parotta and Chicken Curry.

- Location: East Gate, Thanjavur.

- Why Visit: Known for its flaky parottas and rich chicken curry, this restaurant offers a hearty meal with authentic Tamil Nadu flavors.

9. Tanjore Kitchen:

- Specialty: Tanjore-style Biryani.

- Location: Pillaiyarpatti.

- Why Visit: Tanjore Kitchen serves a unique version of biryani inspired by local flavors, paired with tangy brinjal curry and raita, making it a must-visit for biryani lovers.

10. Shri Sangeethas:

- Specialty: Variety Dosa and Rava Kesari.

- Location: Gandhiji Road.

- Why Visit: Shri Sangeethas offers a wide variety of dosas, including ghee roast and onion dosa, along with sweet treats like Rava Kesari, a semolina-based dessert, for a fulfilling South Indian experience.

When in Thanjavur, don't miss the chance to relish these delicious regional dishes and savor the diverse and rich flavors that reflect the culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Weather & Quick Info Of Thanjavur

Thanjavur is a sacred town of temples perfect tourist destination for heritage lovers.

The best Months To Visit Thanjavur are from October to March.

The ideal time required to explore Thanjavur is 2-3 days.

Thanjavur has many nearby tourist destinations like Swamimalai (36 km), Darasuram (35 km) & many more.

Best Hotels In Thanjavur

Philomena

Price: ₹ 1700.00

Updated Mar 18

Serviced Apartment

2851/14, 2, Arulanandha Nagar Main Rd, Thanjavur 613007, Tamil Nadu, India
Near By: Arulanandha Nagar
Hotel Detail

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Amenities: Parking, Wifi, Banquet Facilities, Room Service
59.9 km

0.7 km

published on 2024-03-18

Hotel Victoriyah

Price: ₹ 1316.00

Updated Mar 18

Hotel

nr Rajaraja Cholan Manimandapam, 6th Cross, Arulananda Nagar Rd, Behind Rohini Hospital, Thanjavur 613007, Tamil Nadu, India
Star Rating:
Near By: Rohini Hospital
Hotel Detail

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Amenities: Conference Or Meeting Rooms, Swimming Pool, Wifi, Restaurant or Fine Dine Area, Banquet Facilities, Laundry Facilities, Gym or Fitness center
59.2 km

1.6 km

published on 2024-03-18

Best Travel Agents In Thanjavur

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