1. Brihadeeswarar Temple

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thanjavur, the Brihadeeswarar Temple is a Chola architectural masterpiece. The premises has a temple tower called “Vimana”, almost 66 meters long. The round apex structure is believed to be built out of a carving on a single stone. Upon entry, you are greeted with the huge Nandi figurine, almost 13 feet in height. Back in 2010, it completed 1,000 years of being one of the top Thanjavur tourist places.

2. Gangaikonda Cholapuram

This place is an architectural beauty that was built under the reign of the Chola empire which is considered to be the greatest empires of India. The Gangaikonda Cholapuram was once the capital city of the Chola empire for around two centuries. This is one of the magnificent architectures of the past and holds importance in the history of Thanjavur. Built by the Chola King Rajendra to commemorate his victory in the Pala Dynasty. In the present day, this city has turned into a small village where Lord Shiva Temple is a symbol of grandeur which makes it one of the most ideal places to visit in Thanjavur.

3. Shiva Ganga Garden

Located inside the Vijayanagar fort, this beautiful garden is one of the main highlights to explore apart from the places to visit in Thanjavur other than temples. Amidst the historical ruins of the fort stands this well-designed and well-maintained garden which is considered to be one of the famous places in Thanjavur. There is a square tank which is located inside the Siva Garden which was built during the 16th century by rulers. This was used to provide water to the Tanjore Palace and still used while the water tastes sweet.

4. Vijayanagar Fort

Located at a distance of 2 km, the Vijayanagar fort is one of the famous places in Thanjavur. The mesmerizing architecture of the fort was built during the 1550 AD by the Nayaks and the Maratha’s. Inside the fort there is a Tanjore Palace, Sangeetha Mahal, an art gallery along with a library. Alongside this the Shiva Ganga garden is also situated inside the complex of the fort which adds a touch of beauty.

5. Chandra Bagwan Temple

Devoted to the holy moon god, this is another temple which holds an importance in the heart of the devotees. Situated at a distance of 25 km, this temple is famous among the people who believe that they have the bad effects of the Moon according to their horoscopes.

6. Schwartz Church

This is one of the oldest churches in India which was built by the Maratha ruler, Sarfoji II. During his reign, he came across the Prussian Lutheran missionary Rev Friedrich Schratwz and later became his disciple. In order to pay tribute to their friendship, the Maratha ruler decided to construct this around the year 1779.

7. Swami Malai Temple

This magnificent temple has an importance among the Hindu people of South India. Also this temple is one of the Arupadaiveedu which is one of the six abodes of Murugan. It is believed that the temple is built over the ground where Lord Murugan imbibed and spread the knowledge of the universe to his father.

8. Saraswathi Mahal Library

According to the Britannica Encyclopedia, the Saraswathi Mahal Library is considered to be one of the remarkable libraries of India which has been there since many ages. Built around the 16th-17th century by the Nayak rulers, this place was later nurtured by the Maratha king Serforji II. Inside the library there is a vast collection of arts, maps. Paintings and manuscripts.

9. Alangudi Guru Temple

Considered to be one of the famous places to visit in Thanjavur, the Alangudi Guru Temple is settled amidst the holy rivers Cauvery, Vennaru and Kolidam. Holding a strong mythological importance, this temple has been mentioned in many folklores. The idol worshipped is the Abathsahayeswarar form of Shiva which digested the poison of Vasuki Nag. Alongside that this temple also worships the Devguru Brihaspati also known as the planet Jupiter.

10. Our Lady of Sorrows Church

To get the desired peace and solace, explore one of the finest religious Tanjore tourist places, the Our Lady Of Sorrows Church. The third week of September is the most dynamic time when the annual car festival is held. The festival promotes harmony and peace among the community, despite the faith and religion of people being different.

11. Thanjavur Royal Palace

Otherwise locally known as Aranmanai, the palace was built by Thanjavur Nayak rulers. The complex currently houses the royal family but has a few other interesting buildings including the fabulous queen’s courtyard, Sadar Mahal Palace, and Durbar Hall. Being a memorial, it contains a gallery where the splendid collection of Chola bronzes can be found. Little can we talk about one of the top royal places to visit in Thanjavur.

12. Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple

The Punnai Nallur Mariamman temple is one of the most famous temples in Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, the temple is one of the greatest architectural splendors showcasing the true form of Dravidian style. The temple might be ancient but the recently built seventh-tier gopuram is still maintained by the royal family of Thanjavur.

13. Thanjavur Art Gallery

There is no doubt why the art gallery of Thanjavur is on the list of best places to visit in Thanjavur. The world-famous signature of Thanjavur are the legendary Tanjore paintings and Tanjore Dolls. The art gallery is where you will find authentic paintings of Tanjore for sale. You can witness the amazing art pieces on display in the gallery – simply colorful, elegant and grand.