Thanjavur, famously known as Tanjore, is one of the most traditional and ancient temple towns in Tamil Nadu. It is filled with vibrant architecture, like the UNESCO World Heritage Site situated at the Brihadeeswarar Temple. Along with being the ultimate tourist destination, this place preserves the rich architectural heritage of Tamil India. If you plan on taking a trip to this dreamy and exotic location, you will stumble across a myriad of aesthetically pleasing buildings and temples, as well as cultural and fascinating venues.
OVERVIEW
Location: Tamil Nadu
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirapalli International Airport
How to reach: by air/road/train
Famous for: Brihadeeswarar Temple,Saraswathi Mahal Library, Tanjore Paintings
Best time to visit: October to March
WHAT TO SEE
Brihadeeswarar Temple
Thanjavur Palace
Saraswathi Mahal Library
Sangitha Mahal
Schwartz Church
Today, Tanjore, India, is said to be the hub of Tamil culture and learning. Initially, it became the standard home of Dravidian art and architecture. Decades ago, Tanjore was the capital of the Cholas. It was located in the Cauvery River’s delta. Along with being known as Tamil Nash’s Rice Bowl, Tanjore has a vibrantly fascinating history. One of the compelling factors of Tanjore that are remembered and admired to this day is the classic and intricate architecture of several temples.
Tanjore, India, is a destination full of bronze icons and ancient handicrafts. The culture and architecture here are vividly stunning. From the famous dancing fall to art plates, powder boxes, bell metal castings, and bowels, Tanjore has a lot to offer other than its picturesque view. Furthermore, you may come across several ornamental fans, pith works, handcrafted musical instruments, and much more. So sit tight and tour through the exclusively retro-styled town for the most exemplary experience of a lifetime.
Places of Interest:
Brihadeeswarar Temple: Brihadeeswarar Temple is a must-visit if you take a trip to Tanjore. The astoundingly gorgeous temple in Thanjavur is known for its exceptionally detailed Chola architecture which was built with a few of the most intricate and advanced architectural techniques and resources back in the golden era. Along with its noteworthy architecture, the temple incorporates a myriad of inscriptions that account for the history of this place. A few of the fundamental highlights of this temple include Nandi and Sikhara of the Sri Vimana.
Thanjavur Palace: The Thanjavur Maratha Palace is designed in a few of the most stunning and classic architectural styles. It was primarily built by the Thanjavur Nayak Kingdom rulers. It further served as the authentic residence for the rulers for several years. The tremendously vast palace comprises the Sadar Mahal Palace, Durbar Hall, and the Queen’s courtyard.
Saraswathi Mahal Library: Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the most pivotal attractions in Tanjore. It is a home for hoary Sanskrit, South Indian, and Tamil literature and writing. The massive library consists of about 49000 volumes of books, along with intriguing manuscripts of the Sangram Era. Visit this place if you are compelled by the history of Tanjore, India.
Sangitha Mahal: Sangitha Mahal is one of the chief attractions of global India. It is home to the most beloved ancient musical instruments in India. It is located at the Tanjore Palace and is one of the most tranquil places for music lovers. It also holds the ancient music of the 1600s, when Nayak King Sevappa Nayak ruled the region.
Schwartz Church: Schwartz Church is recognized as one of the oldest churches in Tanjore, India. It was initially built independently of the imperial administration. It holds the value of Tanjore’s vibrant history. Primarily, the church is named after Friedrich Schwartz, a German reverend. Schwartz is recognized as the teacher of Maratha King Serfoji. The church has heavy architecture and intricate designs throughout.
Nearby Attractions:
Thiruvarur: Located about 55km from Tanjore, India, Thiruvarur, also known as Poonkovil, consists of the traditional Shiva Temple. This place is worshipped for its delicacy and sacredness. Stroll through numerous temples, all carved with eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing designs.
Poovanoor: Poovanur is a local village located close to Tanjore. It is one of the classic tourist attractions near Tanjore, as it depicts the exquisite culture of Tamil Nadu. Tour through the village to encounter the fascinating cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu as a whole.
Trichy, also known as Tiruchirappalli, is an age-old city located close to Tanjore. The euphoric Kollidam and Kaveri rivers pass through Srirangam Island, which is vastly recognized for a few of the most prestigious Hindu sites like the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Along with several intricately carved temples, this city has countless attractions to offer.
Other attractions:
Shop for Tanjore dolls and paintings. Tanjore is identified by its cultural paintings and dolls. Shop the traditional accessories that have historic value. Tanjore dolls are styled with classic bobbleheads, while the Tanjore painting style depicts historic influences and movements that date back centuries. You must visit the famous market amidst the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
Where to stay:
Thanjavur consists of a multitude of bewitching hotels and resorts that come with a panoramic view and several exciting amenities.
Ideal River View Resort: Live in one of the sophisticated and modest rooms along the riverside. Utilize amenities like a spa and outdoor pool and make the most of the setting, be it by sunbathing while admiring the golden hour or strolling through the nearby attractions.
Svatma: The intricately polished hotel has a palace-like appeal with ravishing rooms. It offers fun-loving amenities, starting with art classes, yoga classes, three restaurants, spas, and much more.
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