Two-day Family Friendly Itinerary for Thanjavur in June 2023
Day 1: Brihadeeswara Temple
10 minutes (2.3 km) from Thanjavur Junction
Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate carvings that adorn the temple walls. Learn about the history and significance of the temple from a local guide.
Afternoon: Head to the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery, just a few minutes away from the temple. Explore the palace and admire the beautiful paintings, sculptures, and musical instruments on display.
Evening: End the day with a picturesque sunset at the Thanjavur Maratha Palace, located just a 5-minute walk from the art gallery. Take a leisurely stroll through the palace gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Day 2: Thiruvaiyaru
30 minutes (20 km) from Thanjavur Junction
Morning: Take a day trip to Thiruvaiyaru, a small town known for its rich cultural heritage. Visit the Thiruvaiyaru Thyagaraja Temple and attend a classical music concert hosted by the temple.
Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at a local restaurant in Thiruvaiyaru. Try some of the local delicacies like dosa, idli, and sambar.
Evening: Visit the Thiruvaiyaru Kamban Kazhagam, a museum dedicated to the Tamil poet Kamban. Learn about his life and works and admire the beautiful sculptures and paintings on display.
Recommendations
Other must-visit places in Thanjavur include the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, the Schwartz Church, and the Sivaganga Park. If you have time, take a side trip to the nearby town of Kumbakonam, known for its intricate brass work and beautiful temples. To maximize your fun, take a guided walking tour or rent a bike to explore the city on your own. Don't forget to try the delicious filter coffee while you're here!
Time and Costs Estimates
Brihadeeswara Temple (2 hours, free)
Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery (2 hours, INR 50 per person)
Thanjavur Maratha Palace (1 hour, free)
Thiruvaiyaru Thyagaraja Temple (2 hours, free)
Local restaurant lunch (1 hour, INR 200 per person)
Thiruvaiyaru Kamban Kazhagam (1 hour, INR 20 per person)