Thanjavur is a city located in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is also known as the “Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu” due to its rich paddy fields. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its magnificent temples, exquisite handicrafts, and classical music. If you are planning a trip to Thanjavur, here are the top seven places you must visit:
1. Brihadeeswara Temple
Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks of Thanjavur. It was built by the Chola king, Rajaraja I, in the 11th century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for its impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and massive Nandi statue.
2. Thanjavur Palace
Thanjavur Palace, also known as the Maratha Palace, was built in the 16th century by the Nayakas and later renovated by the Marathas. The palace complex consists of several buildings, including the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which houses a vast collection of ancient books and manuscripts. The palace also has a museum that showcases the history and culture of Thanjavur.
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3. Schwartz Church
Schwartz Church is a historic church built by the Danish missionary, Frederic Christian Schwartz, in the late 18th century. The church is famous for its beautiful stained-glass windows and serene atmosphere. It is located in the heart of the city and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
4. Sangeetha Mahal
Sangeetha Mahal is a palace built by the Nayakas in the 16th century and is famous for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings. The palace was used as a concert hall by the kings of Thanjavur to host classical music concerts. It is now a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit for music lovers.
5. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a small town located about 70 km from Thanjavur. It was the capital of the Chola dynasty during the 11th century and is famous for its magnificent temple, the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
6. Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam is a small town located about 40 km from Thanjavur and is famous for its numerous temples and holy water tanks. The town is also known for its delicious South Indian cuisine, especially filter coffee and traditional sweets. It is a must-visit for foodies and temple enthusiasts.
7. Swamimalai
Swamimalai is a small town located about 40 km from Thanjavur and is famous for its ancient temple, the Swamimalai Murugan Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is famous for its intricate carvings and ancient architecture. It is a must-visit for spiritual seekers and architecture enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Thanjavur is a city with a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its magnificent temples, exquisite handicrafts, and classical music. The top seven places to visit in Thanjavur are Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur Palace, Schwartz Church, Sangeetha Mahal, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Kumbakonam, and Swamimalai. These places are a must-visit for anyone visiting Thanjavur to experience the city’s rich history and culture. Make sure to add these attractions to your itinerary to have a fulfilling trip to Thanjavur.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the best time to visit Thanjavur? A1. The best time to visit Thanjavur is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.
Q2. Is Thanjavur safe for tourists? A2. Yes, Thanjavur is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Q3. How many days are enough to explore Thanjavur? A3. Two to three days are enough to explore the top attractions of Thanjavur.
Q4. What are some famous handicrafts of Thanjavur? A4. Thanjavur is famous for its exquisite handicrafts, including the Thanjavur paintings, Tanjore dolls, and handwoven silk sarees.
Q5. What is the nearest airport to Thanjavur? A5. The nearest airport to Thanjavur is the Tiruchirappalli International Airport, which is located about 60 km away.