4-Day Cultural and Historical Tour of Tanjavur and Nearby Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Tanjavur Heritage

Tanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sree Ariya Mess

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast with freshly made dosa, idli, and filter coffee at this popular local eatery.
INR150, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, built by Raja Raja Chola I, renowned for its magnificent Dravidian architecture and towering vimana.
INR40, 2h0m

11:45am

Tanjore Art Gallery

Admire exquisite traditional Tanjore paintings and sculptures that showcase the region's rich artistic heritage.
INR20, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sree Annai Bhojanam

Taste authentic Tamil vegetarian meals served on banana leaves, featuring regional specialties like sambar and rasam.
INR250, 1h0m

2:30pm

Tanjore Palace and Museum

Visit the majestic palace showcasing royal artifacts, weaponry, and classic bronze and stone sculptures.
INR50, 2h0m

5:00pm

Evening stroll in the Market Area

Explore vibrant local markets selling crafts, textiles, and colorful Tanjore paintings to soak in local culture.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Adayar Anandha Bhavan

Relish a variety of South Indian dishes with specialties like dosas and thalis in a comfortable setting.
INR300, 1h0m

Day 2: Temples and Local Crafts

Tanjavur & Surroundings, Tamil Nadu, India on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Restaurant

Start your day with an Indian breakfast including idli, vada, and fresh coffee or tea at your hotel.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Samanar Hills

Explore ancient Jain carvings and caves situated on Samanar Hills, a peaceful hill offering panoramic views of Tanjavur.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Schwartz Church

See this famous 18th-century Protestant church known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Free, 30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Sukkubhai Restaurant

Enjoy flavorful vegetarian meals including South Indian thali and snacks in a local favorite spot.
INR250, 1h0m

1:45pm

Visit Tanjore Doll Factory

Witness artisans crafting famous Tanjore wooden dolls and buy unique handmade souvenirs.
Free Entry, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore the Art and Craft Village at Akkur

Approximately 30mins from Tanjavur, this village offers a great look at traditional crafts and weaving.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to Tanjavur and Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with local and Indian dishes at your hotel's restaurant.
INR300, 1h0m

Day 3: Trichy Historical Sites

Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), Tamil Nadu, India on June 3, 2025

7:00am

Departure to Trichy

Travel approximately 1 hour from Tanjavur to Trichy by car or bus.
INR500, 1h0m

8:15am

Breakfast at Hotel Sangam

Enjoy a full South Indian breakfast with fresh filter coffee in Trichy.
INR200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Rockfort Temple

Climb the ancient hilltop rock fort to visit temples and enjoy panoramic views of Trichy city.
INR40, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Explore Asia's largest functioning Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu, famous for its grand architecture and festivals.
Free, 2h0m

2:15pm

Lunch at Chatkazz

Savor a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian dishes with a scenic view near the temple area.
INR350, 1h0m

3:45pm

Visit Jambukeswarar Temple

Visit this important ancient Shiva temple famous for its water element symbolism and architectural beauty.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Evening walk along Kaveri River Front

Relax with a riverside walk, enjoying cool breezes and scenic views of the Kaveri River.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at A2B Restaurant

Relish traditional Tamil meals and sweets in a comfortable restaurant known for quality meals.
INR350, 1h0m

Day 4: Chola Legacy Tour

Gangaikonda Cholapuram & Tanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India on June 4, 2025

7:00am

Departure to Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Drive 35 km from Tanjavur to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, exploring the lesser-known Chola capital's temple.
INR200, 1h0m

8:30am

Breakfast Picnic Near Temple

Enjoy packed South Indian breakfast outdoors near the temple premises for a refreshing start.
INR150, 45m

9:30am

Visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

Admire the grand architecture of this UNESCO tentative site, built by Rajendra Chola I, similar to Brihadeeswarar Temple but less crowded.
INR40, 2h0m

12:00pm

Return to Tanjavur for Lunch

Have lunch at Sri Sabarees, a popular spot famed for traditional Tamil meals.
INR250, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Thanjavur Art Gallery or relax

Spend your afternoon revisiting art galleries or relaxing at your hotel.
Optional Free or INR20, 2h0m

4:00pm

Souvenir Shopping

Pick up exquisite Tanjore paintings and handicrafts as final souvenirs before departure.
Varies, 1h0m

6:00pm

Early Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy your last South Indian meal in Tanjavur, savoring favorites like parotta and chicken curry if desired.
INR300, 1h0m