Exploring Thanjavur in a Day

  1. 9:00 AM: Brihadeeswara Temple
    Located on Membalam Road, the temple is a 10-minute drive from the city centre.

    Built in the 11th century by the Chola dynasty, the Brihadeeswara Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest temples in India. Marvel at the towering 66-metre-high Vimana and the intricate carvings that adorn the temple walls.

  2. 11:00 AM: Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery
    Located on the East Main Street, the palace is a 15-minute drive from the Brihadeeswara Temple.

    The Thanjavur Palace was built in the 16th century by the Nayaka dynasty and is now a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Thanjavur. The palace houses a collection of art, weapons, and musical instruments.

  3. 1:00 PM: Satharsamaliga Palace
    Located on the Srinivasam Pillai Road, the palace is a 5-minute drive from the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery.

    The Satharsamaliga Palace is a 19th-century palace that was built by the Maratha ruler Serfoji II. The palace is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and is adorned with beautiful murals and paintings.

  4. 3:00 PM: Saraswathi Mahal Library
    Located on the East Main Street, the library is a 10-minute drive from the Satharsamaliga Palace.

    The Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest libraries in Asia and houses a vast collection of rare manuscripts, palm-leaf manuscripts, and books. The library is a treasure trove of knowledge and is a must-visit for history buffs and book lovers.

  5. 5:00 PM: Thiruvaiyaru
    Located 13 kilometres from Thanjavur, Thiruvaiyaru is a 30-minute drive from the Saraswathi Mahal Library.

    Thiruvaiyaru is a small town that is famous for its association with the saint Thyagaraja, one of the greatest composers of Carnatic music. Visit the Thyagaraja Temple, where the saint is believed to have composed and sung his famous compositions.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Brihadeeswara Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery (2 hours, INR 100)
  • Satharsamaliga Palace (1 hour, INR 50)
  • Saraswathi Mahal Library (1 hour, INR 20)
  • Thiruvaiyaru (2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 170
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