Tanjore is a city laid in the state of Tamil Nadu. Tanjore is also known as Thanjavur and the foremost place for South Indian religion, art, and architecture.
Most of the great Chola temples are still breathing at this aesthetic place. Traverse into the most traditional place of Tamil Nadu and probe into the history of Chola buildings and temples. The places and its architectural wonderings will give the awe-inspiring experience to dive into the Chola period. So the top 5 must-places to visit in Tanjore are as follows.
1. Brihadhesswara Temple:
The prime attraction of Thanjavur is the majestic Brihadheeswara temple which was built in the early 11th century by Rajaraja Chola I. The temple is built in Dravidian style of architecture in granite. It is otherwise known as ‘Periya Kovil’ or ‘Big Temple’. The jaw dropping 70 m high ‘Vimana’ of the temple in such an architectural precision that its shadow will never fall outside itself. It also features the massive idol of nandhi and the temple itself is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The noteworthy place in the temple is the ‘Nayak Mandapam’ which is inscribed with intricate carvings. The ceiling of the mandapam is well noted for its 1000 years old frescoes. Visitors often throng to this temple to get an awe-struck experience.
2. Thanjavur Royal Palace:
Thanjavur Royal Palace is one of the most popular attractions of Thanjavur. Thanjavur Royal Palace situated within the Vijayanagara Fort Complex and it was the residence of the Nayak Kings of Thanjavur. It was built in 16th century and later it became the seat for Maratha rulers of Thanjavur during 17th century. You will be having a feast for eyes on Thanjavur Art Gallery, mirror glass works and other gigantic halls. The palace helps you to have the clear view of the Vijanagara Fort Complex and the Gopuram and the Vimana of the Big Temple.
3. Gangaikonda Temple:
The architectural magnificence of Gangaikonda Temple is another example of beautiful carvings. It has been declared as world heritage sites by UNESCO. One can go from wonder to resonance by looking at the architecture and carvings of the temple. This temple is thousand years old and is known as an integral part of Tamil History.
4. The Seforji Sarasvati Mahal Library:
The library is located within the premises of the Royal palace. It is more like museum that has heaped lot of old artefacts and manuscripts. The paintings are vivid and exquisite and you will feel literally at the medieval period. It is a must visit for all the historical lovers and explore the past.
5. Sukkiran Temple:
This is known as the Navagraha Temple for Venus and it is also considered to be auspicious to visit on Friday. The temple is located on the small village and it is easy to get the normal livelihood of the place through the locals. The routes of the village will give you the natural scenic view and mesmerize you with its natural beauty.
Thanjavur is known for its aesthetic sense of art, architecture and religion and its one of the best places to visit along with your family members for memorable experience.
Temple city is right here to amuse with its aesthetic beauty!
