Travel Diaries | Thanjavur: Land of Ponniyin Selvan, Grand Temples, Timeless Architecture and Classical Arts

Thanjavur, the land of Ponniyin Selvan, is known for its grand Chola temples, timeless architecture, classical arts, rich history, sacred traditions, and authentic Tamil cuisine in the fertile Cauvery delta.

Thanjavur: Where History, Art and Devotion Come Alive

Set in the lush embrace of the Cauvery delta, Thanjavur, also known as Tanjore, is a city where time seems to slow down in reverence to its glorious past. Every street echoes with stories of mighty dynasties, sacred rituals, and artistic brilliance that have shaped South India for over a thousand years. 

Celebrated for its majestic temples, refined classical traditions, and enduring cultural soul, Thanjavur is more than a place to visit—it is an experience to be felt. 

From spiritual sanctuaries and royal legacies to age-old crafts and soulful cuisine, the city offers a journey that lingers long after the trip ends.

A Brief History of Thanjavur

• Thanjavur rose to prominence under the Chola dynasty between the 9th and 13th centuries.
• This era is regarded as the golden age of South Indian architecture, administration, and art.
• The city served as the imperial capital of the Cholas, witnessing major political and cultural developments.
• The Chola rulers built monumental temples, including the iconic Brihadeeswara Temple.
• Literature, classical music, and dance flourished under royal patronage.
• Thanjavur later came under the rule of the Nayaks, followed by the Marathas.
• Each dynasty contributed to the city’s architectural, cultural, and artistic richness.
• Today, Thanjavur stands as a living museum of Dravidian heritage and royal legacy.

Top Places to Visit in Thanjavur

Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Chola masterpiece, famed for its towering vimana, massive Nandi, and unmatched Dravidian architecture.

Thanjavur Royal Palace and Saraswathi Mahal Library: A grand Maratha-era palace complex housing one of Asia’s oldest libraries with rare manuscripts and palm-leaf texts.

Art Gallery and Bronze Gallery: Home to exquisite Chola bronze idols and sculptures showcasing the artistic brilliance of ancient South India.

Shivaganga Garden: A tranquil Maratha-period garden near the Big Temple, perfect for relaxing amid greenery and historic water tanks.

Thanjai Mamani Koil: A revered Divya Desam dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring three temples within a single sacred complex.

Schwartz Church: An elegant 18th-century church built in memory of Rev. C.F. Schwartz, reflecting colonial influence and communal harmony.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram (Nearby): A UNESCO-listed Chola temple town built by Rajendra Chola I, ideal for a history-rich day trip.

Things to Do in Thanjavur

• Experience soulful Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music performances rooted in centuries-old traditions.
• Explore Tanjore painting workshops, renowned for their rich colours and intricate gold foil detailing.
• Visit nearby villages to witness traditional Chola bronze casting and veena-making crafts.
• Take a heritage walk through temple streets, bustling markets, and historic neighbourhoods.
• Shop for authentic handicrafts, Thanjavur paintings, bronze idols, and silk textiles as souvenirs.

Best Time to Visit Thanjavur

• The ideal time to visit Thanjavur is from October to March.
• During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
• Monsoon season (October–November) adds lush greenery to the Cauvery delta.
• Winter months offer comfortable temperatures for temple visits and outdoor exploration.
• Summers (April–June) are extremely hot and best avoided for travel.

Getting Around Thanjavur

• Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are convenient for short distances within the city.
• Taxis and app-based cabs are available for city tours and nearby excursions.
• Walking around temple zones allows travellers to experience local life, markets, and heritage up close.

Where to Stay?

• Thanjavur offers accommodation options for all budgets.
• Heritage hotels and mid-range stays are available near the city centre.
• Budget lodges and guesthouses near the temple area cater to pilgrims.
• Comfortable resorts on the outskirts provide a peaceful and relaxed stay.

What to Eat?

• Enjoy traditional Tamil vegetarian meals served on banana leaves.
• Savour local staples like sambar, rasam, poriyal, kootu, and ghee-rich rice varieties.
• Try Thanjavur-style biryani and other authentic non-vegetarian dishes.
• Relish classic sweets such as adhirasam, mysore pak, and payasam.

Why Thanjavur Should Be on Your Travel List?

Thanjavur is more than a destination and stands as a living showcase of South India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. 

From the awe-inspiring UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple and the centuries-old Saraswathi Mahal Library to its classical music, dance traditions, and time-honoured crafts, the city offers an experience that is deeply rooted in history yet vibrantly alive.

Combined with authentic cuisine, a relaxed pace of life, and a rich artistic legacy, Thanjavur promises a meaningful and memorable journey for every traveller.