Located in the Cauvery Delta, Thanjavur— a city in Tamil Nadu is an important centre of religion, art and architecture related to South India. Apart from being famous for the UNESCO World Heritage monuments which were built during the Cholas dynasty, it is also known as the ‘Rice bowl of Tamil Nadu’. Moreover, the city is known for Tanjore painting— a unique painting style originating from this region...
Some major attractions of Thanjavur
Brihadishwara Temple (Rajarajeswaram Temple)
One of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, it is a place one shouldn’t miss with its beautiful architecture and a garden at the backyard. Dated back to the 11th century and constructed by Rajaraja Chola, this temple is scaled by a tower and has two courts. Dedicated to Lord Shiva., it houses hundreds of lingams in the pillared cloister along with a huge Shiva lingam in the temple sanctorum, an immense stone Nandi and two live elephants. Even the gopuram (entrance gate) is said to be about 63 m high.
Thanjavur Palace & Saraswathi Mahal Library
Built in the 16th century, the palace was once the abode of the Nayak Kings of Tanjavur. It is located inside the Vijaynagara Fort complex. The gallery inside the palace houses ancient Tamil and Sanskrit manuscripts which were written down during the rule of the famous dynasties. The Saraboji Palace, inside the main palace, possesses the library where numerous rare paintings depicting various Indian cities during the reign of King Saraboji can be seen.
Swamimalai Temple
This temple is famous for its 60 steps that indicate Tamil calendar’s 60 years. Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Murugan), it is one of the most popular pilgrim spots where the Lord Swaminathan is adorned and worshipped particularly on every Thursdays.
Schwartz Church
Constructed by Rev. Schwartz more than 200 years ago, it is operational under the CSI Trichy-Tanjore Diocese.
Siva Ganga Garden
Located between the Brihadeshwara Temple and the Schwartz Church, it is a quaint place to enjoy with family and kids. The park has a lovely toy train and also a theppakulam, a temple in the middle of pond where boating services are also available.
Shopping in Thanjavur
Well known for the Thanjavur dancing dolls, Tanjore Paintings and Tanjore art plates, Thanjavur is quite a shopper’s delight.
How to Reach
Thanjavur is well connected by air through Tiruchirapalli International Airport (around 61 km) and by rail via Thanjavur Junction.
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