Thanjavur

தஞ்சாவூர்

The ancient capital of the Chola Empire, Thanjavur is a treasure of Tamil art and architecture featuring the iconic Brihadeeswarar Temple with its massive granite tower and bronze sculptures. The city is also renowned for Tanjore paintings, a classical art form that remains a living tradition.

Things to do

• Brihadeeswarar Temple — Marvel at the 11th-century granite tower (vimana) rising 216 feet, topped with a single 216-ton granite stone, and explore the intricate bronze sculptures and detailed carvings throughout the temple complex.
• Thanjavur Palace and Museum — Wander through the remaining sections of the royal palace built during the Maratha rule, featuring a four-story tower with an art gallery displaying paintings, manuscripts, and historical artifacts.
• Tanjore Painting Workshops — Observe master artists at work creating the distinctive Tanjore paintings with gold foil and natural colors, and purchase authentic pieces directly from artisan studios in the old town.
• Saraswathi Mahal Library — Browse one of the oldest libraries in India, established during the Maratha period, housing rare Sanskrit and Tamil manuscripts, and historical texts in its ornate reading rooms.
• Sivaganga Tank — Stroll around this ancient irrigation reservoir built by the Cholas, which offers peaceful views and reflects the city's historical water management system.
• Kumbakonam Day Trip — Take a short journey to the neighboring temple town known for its own sacred tanks and the famous Aardhrabisheka ritual at Kumbeshwarar Temple during April.

Food to try

• Thanjavur Idli — Savor the soft, fluffy rice cakes steamed in the traditional Chola method, typically served with sambar and coconut chutney at local breakfast spots.
• Ghee Roast Dosa — Indulge in crispy crepes made with fermented rice and lentil batter, generously coated with ghee and served with gunpowder chutney, a specialty of Thanjavur restaurants.
• Avial — Enjoy this mixed vegetable curry made with coconut paste and tempered with coconut oil, a vegetarian specialty common in Tamil households and temple offerings.
• Thanjavur Payasam — Experience the rich milk-based dessert made with vermicelli, jaggery, and cashews, traditionally prepared during temple festivals and special occasions.
• Brinjal Fry (Kathirikkai Varuval) — Taste the crispy, spiced eggplant slices seasoned with mustard seeds and curry leaves, a popular vegetable side dish across South Indian homes.

Local customs & good to know

• Remove shoes at temples — It is customary to remove footwear before entering Hindu temples, and dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered to show respect at sacred sites.
• Respect for Tanjore paintings — When purchasing or viewing Tanjore paintings, understand that authentic pieces are labor-intensive and expensive; genuine artisans sign their work and will discuss the materials like 24-karat gold foil used.
• Festival timing — Plan your visit around Aipasi (October-November) or Kartik Purnima to experience elaborate temple processions, special rituals, and heightened cultural activities in Thanjavur.
• Photography restrictions — Many temples prohibit photography inside sanctums; always ask permission before photographing people, artisans at work, or inside sacred chambers to respect local customs.