Exploring Tanjavur in June 2023

  1. Day 1: Brihadeeswarar Temple
    10 minutes (3.4 km) from Tanjavur Junction Railway Station

    Brihadeeswarar Temple is an architectural marvel and one of the most popular places to visit in Tanjavur. Built over a thousand years ago, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is famous for its grand architecture, including a massive tower and intricate carvings. Visitors can also witness the daily rituals and offerings made to Lord Shiva.

  2. Day 1: Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery
    20 minutes (4.5 km) from Brihadeeswarar Temple

    The Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery is a must-visit place for history buffs and art lovers. The Palace is home to the Maratha dynasty's former rulers and has been converted into a museum, showcasing a vast collection of art, weaponry, and ancient artifacts. The Art Gallery contains a wide range of bronze sculptures, paintings, and other artworks that date back to the Chola and Nayak periods.

  3. Day 2: Saraswathi Mahal Library
    15 minutes (4.2 km) from Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery

    The Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest libraries in Asia, with a collection of over 30,000 manuscripts and books in various languages. It was established in the 16th century by the Nayak Kings of Thanjavur, and visitors can explore the library's vast collection of rare manuscripts, palm-leaf manuscripts, and books on diverse subjects like astrology, literature, medicine, and more.

  4. Day 2: Grand Anicut (Kallanai) Dam
    50 minutes (30 km) from Saraswathi Mahal Library

    The Grand Anicut Dam, also known as the Kallanai Dam, is one of the oldest dams in the world, built across the Kaveri River in the 2nd century AD, by the Chola King Karikalan. The dam is an engineering marvel that continues to serve the region by providing water for irrigation, drinking, and power generation. Visitors can witness the dam's vast expanse, explore the surrounding landscapes, and enjoy a boat ride on the river.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Brihadeeswarar Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery (1-2 hours, INR 100 for foreigners, INR 10 for Indians)
  • Saraswathi Mahal Library (1-2 hours, INR 25 for Indians, INR 300 for foreigners)
  • Grand Anicut Dam (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 435 for foreigners, INR 45 for Indians
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