5-Day Itinerary for Tanjore: A Journey Through History and Culture

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Tanjore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sangam

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast featuring crispy dosas and idlis.
Located in the heart of Tanjore, it's a convenient start.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at the grandeur of one of India's largest temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 11th century.
A short 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Thanjavur Royal Palace

Discover the rich history and architecture of this majestic palace which served as the residence of the Nayak rulers.
Just a 5-minute walk from the temple.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Sri Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a traditional Tamil meal with an array of vegetarian options.
A brief 10-minute drive from the palace.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Tanjore Painting Workshop

Experience the unique art of Tanjore paintings, famous for their richness and vibrancy.
Around 15 minutes from the restaurant by rickshaw.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Sivaganga Park

Spend a peaceful evening at this beautiful park lined with trees, fountains, and walking paths.
Only a 10-minute drive from the workshop.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Tanjore High Tamilnadu

Indulge in a variety of local dishes to end your first day.
10 minutes drive back towards the city centre.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 2: Spiritual Journey

Tanjore, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Rani Restaurant

Savour a traditional breakfast of upma and filter coffee to fuel your day.
Located near the bus stand area.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Explore another UNESCO World Heritage site, this significant temple is known for its stunning architecture.
About 1 hour's drive, hire a taxi.
INR 100, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Annamalai Chettinad Restaurant

Relish authentic Chettinad cuisine, rich in spices and flavour.
Return to Tanjore, approximately 1 hour's drive back.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Schwartz Church

Discover the historical legacy of this church built by Danish missionary, Friedrich Schwartz.
A quick 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Check out the Art Gallery

Appreciate the collection of ancient sculptures and artworks from the Chola period.
Only 5 minutes away by taxi.
INR 100, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Stroll near the Fort

Wander around the historic Tanjore fort and soak in its scenic views.
A short 10-minute walk from the art gallery.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Sree Ariya Bhavan

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner with a variety of vegetarian options.
Return to the city centre, approximately 15 minutes.
INR 450, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Heritage

Tanjore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Brindavan

Enjoy a diverse breakfast buffet with traditional South Indian delicacies.
Located near your accommodation.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Thanjavur Big Temple Museum

Explore the history and culture of the temple through exhibits and sculptures.
Just a 10-minute drive away.
INR 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Food Court in Big Bazaar

Try some local street food specialties like pani puri and chaat.
Only 5 minutes from the museum.
INR 250, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Thanjavur Maratha Palace

Learn about local history and see the stunning architecture from the Maratha dynasty.
A short 10-minute walk from the food court.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

3:15PM

Relax at Kalingarayan Tank

Breathe in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the beauty of this historic water tank.
15 minutes by auto-rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library

Explore one of the oldest libraries in Asia known for its collection of ancient manuscripts.
Only 10 minutes from the tank.
INR 100, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Vasanth Bhavan

Enjoy great vegetarian food with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.
Located in the city centre, 15 minutes away.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 4: Culinary Delights

Tanjore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Relish a South Indian breakfast with fresh coconut chutney and sambar.
Nearby your stay.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cooking Class at a Local Home

Learn to make traditional Tamil dishes in a friendly home environment.
Arranged through a local tour provider, about 30 minutes away.
INR 1200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Enjoy Lunch with the Family

Savour the dishes you prepared during the cooking class with your hosts.
Part of the cooking class experience.
Included in the class fee., 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple Again

Revisit this magnificent site to explore the intricate carvings and sculptures.
Return to the temple, about 30 minutes drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll Through Tanjore Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the local culture and shop for souvenirs, including Tanjore paintings.
A 10-minute drive from the temple.
Free (Shopping Optional), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mambalam Iyer's Restaurant

Taste a variety of vegetarian delicacies prepared using traditional methods.
Near the bazaar, a quick drive.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 5: Leisure and Reflection

Tanjore, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Vasantha Bhavan

Enjoy a light breakfast of vada and coffee before the day's adventures.
Located near the hotel.
INR 250, 1 hour

10:00AM

Day Trip to Kumbakonam

Visit the nearby city known for its temples and serene atmosphere.
Rental car or taxi, about 1 hour drive.
Approx INR 1000 for transport, 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery in Kumbakonam

Relish traditional Kumbakonam-style meals with rice and sambar.
Close to the temples you will be visiting.
INR 400, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Tanjore and Visit the Muthumariamman Temple

Explore this vibrant temple filled with local devotees.
Drive back to Tanjore, about 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Relax at the Hotel and Reflect

Unwind after a week of exploration, reflecting on your journey.
Return to your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Royal Courtyard

Conclude your journey with a regal dinner featuring traditional South Indian cuisines.
A pleasant 15-minute drive.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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