Discovering Tanjavur in One Day

1. 8:00AM: Brihadeeswara Temple
   Located in the heart of Tanjavur, Brihadeeswara Temple is one of India's most magnificent Hindu temples, built in the 11th century. Admire the grandeur of the temple's architecture, including its towering vimana and gopuram. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction for history and architecture buffs.
   Duration from previous location: 0 mins
2. 10:00AM: Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery
   Experience the rich cultural heritage of Thanjavur at the Royal Palace and Art Gallery. The palace complex houses several museums and galleries with an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artwork. Visitors can explore the palace's elegant Durbar Hall, the throne room of the Nayak kings of Thanjavur.
   Duration from previous location: 2 hours
3. 12:30PM: Sathars Kitchen
   Grab a traditional South Indian lunch at Sathars Kitchen, a small restaurant that serves tasty vegetarian food, including dosa, idli, sambar, and chutney. The restaurant is famous for its friendly staff and affordable prices.
   Duration from previous location: 1 hour
4. 2:00PM: Schwartz Church
   Also known as Christ Church, Schwartz Church is a Protestant church located near the Royal Palace. The church is named after the Danish missionary, Christian Friedrich Schwartz, who worked in Thanjavur for over 30 years and contributed significantly to the development of the region.
   Duration from previous location: 1 hour 30 mins
5. 4:00PM: Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple
   Take a short drive to the nearby town of Gangaikonda Cholapuram to visit the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, built in the 11th century by the Chola dynasty. The temple is another UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
   Duration from previous location: 2 hours
6. 6:00 PM: Rajarajan Manimandapam
   Complete your one-day Tanjavur tour by visiting the Rajarajan Manimandapam, a monument built in honor of the Chola king, Rajaraja I. The monument is said to have been built using a single piece of granite and is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions.
   Duration from previous location: 30 mins

Time and Costs Estimates

• Brihadeeswara Temple (2 hours, ₹250)
• Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery (2 hours, ₹200)
• Sathars Kitchen (1 hour, ₹150)
• Schwartz Church (1 hour 30 mins, Free)
• Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple (2 hours, ₹100)
• Rajarajan Manimandapam (30 mins, Free)
Total Estimated Costs: ₹700 ($9.50)

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other nearby attractions such as the Airavatesvara Temple and the Kumbakonam Mahamaham tank. If you have less time, skip the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple and spend more time exploring the Brihadeeswara Temple and the Royal Palace and Art Gallery. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and carry sunscreen and water with you, as it can get hot and humid in Tanjavur.