Start your trip with a relaxing boat ride down the Kaveri River. Enjoy the calming views of the surrounding lush greenery and watch the local fishermen at work. You can also spot various migratory birds and maybe even a crocodile or two. The guided boat ride takes approximately 1 hour.
Visit the spectacular Thanjavur Big Temple, also known as Brihadeeswara Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the 11th century by the Chola dynasty, this grand Hindu temple is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning every corner. Make sure to catch the evening "Deeparadhana" ceremony, which takes place between 6pm and 7pm, for a mesmerizing experience.
Explore the serene Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, the world's second-largest mangrove forest. Take a boat ride through the winding waterways, which are home to a variety of animals and birds, including otters, crabs, and kingfishers. You can also enjoy activities like kayaking and fishing. The guided boat ride takes approximately 2 hours.
Pay a visit to the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nataraja, the Lord of Dance. This 10th-century temple is famous for its stunning architecture and regular performances of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form. Make sure to visit the sanctum sanctorum where the famous cosmic dance pose of Lord Shiva is depicted.
If you have more time, you can visit the Rock Fort Temple in nearby Trichy, which offers stunning views of the city and requires a climb of around 400 steps. You can also explore the Tanjore Royal Palace and Museum, which houses rare exhibits of the Chola dynasty. For food lovers, try visiting a local restaurant to relish the authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine. If you have less time, visit the Thanjavur Big Temple in the morning and skip the evening ceremony.