Tanjore

Brihadeshwara Temple
Location 55 km east of Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
Significance Rice bowl of Tamil Nadu; famous for handicrafts
Must Visit Brihadeshwara Temple, The Palace, Art Gallery, Saraswathi Mahal Library, Hall of Music
Best Time To Visit September to May
Climate Tropical climate; In summer temperature may go up to 40°C. Northeast monsoon brings heavy rain in October-December

Lush rice fields of the Cauvery delta... majestic temples depicting the royal stories of Chola dynasty... extensive collection of thousands of manuscripts... and the rarest of colourful handicrafts- this is Tanjore or Thanjavur, the haven for craft lovers. This culturally rich city served as the capital of the powerful Chola dynasty from 9th to 13th century. In fact, this was the time when the city actually flourished in every respect. Later the Nayak and Maratha Kings also helped it in achieving new heights.

Major Attractions

The cultural, architectural and the scholarly pursuits of the ancient rulers are reflected in the great monuments of the city. Moreover, the temples of Tanjore are famous all over the world for their unique architectural style.

Sri Brihadeshwara Temple
This 10th century temple is an outstanding example of Chola architecture. Its 66.5 m high 'Srivimana' dominating the town, and the monolithic granite block that forms a cupola are th true attractions.

The Palace
This building of masonry was built partly by the Nayaks and the Marathas. It houses an acoustically perfect ancient music hall and a tank 'Sivaganga' which has sweet water.

Art Gallery
Located inside The Palace and popular for a rarest collection of granite and bronze statues of the Chola period.

Saraswathi Mahal Library
Also located in The Palace with over 30,000 palm leaf and paper manuscripts in Indian and European languages.

Schwartz Church
Built in 1779 by Rajah Serfoji as a token of affection for the Rev. C. V. Schwartz of the Danish mission.

Shopping
The city and its skilled artisans draw countless tourists from far off places in the charm of exquisite hand made articles. These artists are expert in weaving, painting, jewellery designing, woodworks etc. apart from those handicrafts, Thalaiyatti Bommai (the head-nodding doll), and Thanjavur Plates (with sombu, coconut), brass and bronze idols, bowls and vessels are other items for shopping in Thanjavur.

Accommodation
Hotels are easily available in Tanjore. You can find a number of three star and economy class hotels that offer comfort stay to the travellers at reasonable prices.

How To Reach

By Air: Tiruchirappalli (55 km) is the nearest airport and operates flights to all the major cities of India.
By Rail: Tanjore Railway Station is directly connected with Trichy, Madurai, Nagore, and Chennai.
By Road: Tanjore has proper bus services operated between all the major cities in south India.

Tamil Nadu
Destinations

Tamil Nadu Temples

Tamil Nadu Attractions

Tamil Nadu Beaches

Tamil Nadu Festivals

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