The Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest temples in India. Built in the 11th century by the Chola dynasty, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features a 66-metre-tall vimana and a monolithic granite bull Nandi, both of which are must-see attractions.
The Thanjavur Royal Palace, also known as the Maratha Palace, was once the imperial palace of the Thanjavur Marathas. It now houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of Thanjavur. The palace features a mix of European and traditional Maratha architecture, and includes several courtyards, halls, and galleries.
The Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest libraries in Asia, established in the late 16th century by the Nayak kings of Thanjavur. The library houses a vast collection of manuscripts, paintings, and books in several languages, covering various subjects such as medicine, astrology, literature, and science. Some of these documents date back to the 11th century.
The Schwartz Church, also known as Christ Church, was built by the Danish Missionaries in the 18th century. It features a unique fusion of European and Indian architecture, with stained glass windows and a bell tower. The church is named after Reverend Christian Friedrich Schwartz, a Christian missionary who served in Thanjavur for over 30 years.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site located 70km from Thanjavur. Alternatively, you can explore the local markets and try traditional Tamil cuisine such as dosa and idli. If you have less time, you can skip the Thanjavur Royal Palace and head straight to the Saraswathi Mahal Library. Note that the Brihadeeswara Temple can get crowded during peak hours, so it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening.