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3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Thanjavur in June 2023

  1. Day 1: Brihadeeswara Temple
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Thanjavur Junction Railway Station

    In the morning, visit the Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, which is one of the most iconic landmarks of Thanjavur. Built in the 11th century, this temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery, followed by a visit to the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which houses a rare collection of ancient manuscripts. In the evening, watch a traditional Bharatanatyam dance performance at the Natraj Mandir.

  2. Day 2: Gangaikonda Cholapuram
    1 hour 30 minutes (38.7 miles) from Thanjavur by car

    Start your day by visiting the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, which was constructed in the 11th century by Rajendra Chola I. This temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Afternoon can be spent at the Punnainallur Mariamman Temple, followed by a visit to the Kumbakonam Mahamaham tank, which is considered to be one of the holiest tanks in South India. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on the Thanjavur Cauvery river.

  3. Day 3: Thiruvaiyaru
    30 minutes (12.3 miles) from Thanjavur by car

    Begin your day by visiting the Thiruvaiyaru Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its unique architecture and intricate carvings. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Thanjavur Art Gallery, followed by a visit to the Sangeetha Mahal, which is a music museum that showcases traditional Indian instruments. In the evening, attend a Carnatic music concert at the Thiruvaiyaru Thyagaraja Aradhana Festival.

Recommendations

If you want to explore more of Thanjavur, you can visit the Alangudi Temple, which is located about 40 minutes from Thanjavur by car. Another great side trip is a visit to the Darasuram Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located about 30 minutes from Thanjavur by car. To maximize your fun, try to attend the Brihadeeswara Temple's Maha Shivaratri Festival in March. It is one of the biggest festivals in Thanjavur and attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country. Finally, don't forget to try the delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes like thalassery biryani, chettinad chicken, and mutton sukka.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Brihadeeswara Temple (2 hours, free)
  • Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery (1.5 hours, INR 100 per person)
  • Saraswathi Mahal Library (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
  • Natraj Mandir (1.5 hours, INR 500 per person)
  • Gangaikonda Cholapuram (3 hours, free)
  • Punnainallur Mariamman Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Kumbakonam Mahamaham tank (1 hour, free)
  • Thanjavur Cauvery river boat ride (1 hour, INR 500 per person)
  • Thiruvaiyaru Temple (2 hours, free)
  • Thanjavur Art Gallery (1.5 hours, INR 100 per person)
  • Sangeetha Mahal (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
  • Thiruvaiyaru Thyagaraja Aradhana Festival (2 hours, INR 500 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,450 per person
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