Top 5 tourist places in Thanjavur

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Brihadeeswarar Temple is the crown jewel of Thanjavur.
Built in the 11th century by Raja Raja Chola I, this architectural marvel stands as a testimony to Chola brilliance.
The temple’s towering vimana (over 66 meters) is one of the tallest in India.
Intricate carvings, massive granite stones, and a giant Nandi statue add to its majesty.
The temple remains an active place of worship and a cultural icon. Visit during early mornings or evenings for a peaceful, spiritual experience.
Festivals like Maha Shivaratri bring the temple to life with color and devotion.

Kallanai, also known as the Grand Anicut, is one of the world’s oldest functioning water-regulation structures, built over 2,000 years ago by the Chola king Karikalan.
Located about 20 km from Thanjavur, this ancient dam is constructed using uncut stones across the River Kaveri.
It showcases the engineering brilliance of ancient Tamil civilization. The dam still helps irrigate thousands of acres of farmland.
Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful evening visit or a riverside picnic.
For history buffs and nature lovers alike, Kallanai is both a marvel and a serene retreat.

The Thanjavur Maratha Palace, also known as Aranmanai, is a historic complex that once housed the Nayak and later Maratha rulers.
The palace is a blend of architectural styles and houses several attractions like the Saraswathi Mahal Library, the Royal Museum, and the Darbar Hall.
The palace walls display beautiful paintings and relics from Thanjavur’s royal past.
The library is one of the oldest in Asia, home to thousands of rare palm-leaf manuscripts. History lovers and architecture enthusiasts will find this a treasure trove.
The palace grounds also offer a panoramic view of Thanjavur city from its bell tower.

Nestled inside the Thanjavur Palace complex, the Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest and rarest libraries in Asia.
Originally built for the royal family, it now serves scholars and the public. The library contains over 49,000 manuscripts in Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, and other languages, some dating back over 500 years.
Rare maps, medical texts, and palm-leaf manuscripts are preserved here. A small museum showcases selected items for visitors.
This is a must-visit for those interested in literature, history, and ancient knowledge. Photography inside is restricted, preserving the sanctity of this intellectual heritage site.

Situated near the Bay of Bengal coast in Pattukkottai, the Manora Fort is a stunning 8-storey tower built by Maratha ruler Serfoji II in 1814 to commemorate the British victory over Napoleon.
The fort resembles a pagoda and stands 75 feet tall, offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea and coconut groves.
It’s a perfect blend of Indo-European architecture and coastal charm. The beach nearby and the relatively quiet surroundings make it a lovely getaway from city crowds.
A great spot for photography and history enthusiasts.

Thanjai Reviews