Thanjavur Tourism

Thanjavur one of the 32 Districts of Tamilnadu, is popularly known as the Delta area and the Rice Bowl of Tamilnadu. It is believed that Thanjavur derived its name from Mythical Demon Tanjan. Thanjavur is 350 Kms from the State Capital Chennai. This district is a treasure house of Religion, Art and Architecture. There isn’t any clear information about the history of the earlier Thanjavur. As per the earliest sources of information , the Medivial Cholas ruled and developed their empire between the 9th and 14th centuries, with Thanjavur as their Capital. Raja Raja Cholan was the prominent ruler amongst the Chola emperors . Thereafter, Pandiyas, Nayaks of Madurai, Thanjavur and the Marattahs have ruled this region. The cultural, Architectural and the scholarly pursuits of these rulers are reflected in the form of great monuments like Grand Anaicut, Big Temple and Serfoji Mahal Library [now called as Saraswathy Mahal Library] and so on. Many Temples of Thanjavur termed as “Great Living Chola Temples”, have been classified as the World Heritage Monuments by the UNESCO.
Thanjavur district has a population of 24,05,890 [2011 census]. The Municipal Corporation has a population of 2,22,943 [2011 census]. Roadways and Rail Connectivity are the major means of transportation. The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli Airport 56 Kms from here. Karaikal Port, 95 Kms away is the nearest seaport.

Brahadeeshwara Temple
The temple was built by the great king Raja Raja Chola and famously known as ‘Tanjavur Big Temple’. It is the most attractive and popular Hindus Pilgrimage protected by Anaicut River and artificial trenches filled with water in all the sides. It is the brilliance of Indian architecture. The temple tower is measures 216 feet in height and it was constructed in such a way that the shadow of this temple will never fall in ground. A gigantic Nandi statue is another prominent attraction.

Thanjavur Royal Palace
This is the most popular tourist attraction located inside the premises of Vijayanagara Fort. This royal palace was built during 16th century. It offers an excellent view of Tanjavur Big temple and Vijayanagara Fort. Many halls, library and arsenal towers are worth visiting in this royal place.

Tanjavur Art Gallery
It is located within the Royal Palace. It has outstanding collections of bronze and stone idols belongs to Chola and Pallava dynastry. It depicts amazing mural paintings, artifacts dating 8th century, sculptures of kings and lords. Best place for those who are interested in history.

Sangeetha Mahal
It is the another attraction of Tanjavur Royal Palace. The hall of music was built by Nayak King Sevapa during 16th century. It was previously known as Navarathamanamaina Nataka Salai which means theater adorned with gems. It is popular among tourists for its architecture and aesthetic properties like water-pool in front of stage, devoid of excess amplification, balanced deflection and absorption of sound waves and vault decorated with chandeliers.

Chandra Bagawan Temple
It is the moon temple and second most Navagraha temple. It is located at a distance of 25 km from the heart of the city. Those who are affected by bad effects of moon can visit this place to get relief. White cloth and raw rice cooked with jiggery are the main offerings made by visitors.