Explore the Cultural and Historical Treasures of Thanjavur in 2 Days

Day 1: Heritage Temples

Thanjavur, India on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sree Ariya Bhavan

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast including idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this popular local eatery known for its authentic flavors and early opening time.
INR150, 1h0m

9:30am

Brihadeeswarar Temple

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Brihadeeswarar Temple, a magnificent 11th-century Chola dynasty architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring impressive frescoes and giant sculptures.
INR50, 2h0m

11:30am

Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery

Explore the sprawling Thanjavur Palace complex and its Art Gallery that showcases exquisite bronze statues, paintings, and artifacts from the Chola era and later periods.
INR80, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sathars

Enjoy a traditional Tamil meal served on a banana leaf including rice, sambar, rasam, and various vegetable sides in this clean and well-reviewed vegetarian restaurant close to the palace.
INR200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Saraswathi Mahal Library

Visit one of the oldest libraries in Asia, with rare palm-leaf manuscripts and ancient texts that provide deep insight into South Indian history and literature.
INR20, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore local markets

Stroll through the vibrant local markets of Thanjavur to shop for traditional Thanjavur paintings, textiles including silk sarees, and handicrafts.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Gnanam

Relish a flavorful South Indian dinner with a variety of vegetarian dishes in this well-known hotel offering comfortable ambiance and great service.
INR250, 1h0m

Day 2: Nearby Heritage

Thanjavur, India on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Sangam

Enjoy a hearty breakfast including local fare such as pongal, vada, and fresh fruit juice at this popular hotel known for good food and quick service.
INR150, 1h0m

9:00am

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

Take a short trip (about 35 km) to this remarkable 11th-century temple built by Rajendra Chola I. It rivals the Brihadeeswarar Temple and offers insights into Chola architecture.
INR40, 2h30m

12:00pm

Return to Thanjavur and Lunch at Siva Lunch Home

Back in Thanjavur, enjoy a quick and delicious lunch with traditional non-vegetarian South Indian dishes including fish curry and chicken biryani.
INR300, 1h0m

2:00pm

Schwartz Church

Visit this peaceful 18th-century Protestant church built by Christian missionaries in a colonial architectural style, offering a glimpse into Thanjavur’s colonial history.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Cauvery Riverfront

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon walk or relax by the Cauvery River, watching local daily life unfold and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Vasantha Bhavan

End your visit with a delightful dinner featuring a variety of dosas, uttapams, and thalis at this longstanding vegetarian restaurant loved for its consistent quality.
INR200, 1h0m