Fairs & Festivals of Thanjavur
Thanjavur hosts numerous festivals that reflect its deep cultural and spiritual traditions:
Mahamaham Festival: Celebrated once every 12 years, this grand festival attracts devotees to nearby
Kumbakonam, with Thanjavur playing a vital role in the festivities.
Natyanjali Festival: A tribute to Lord Nataraja, held at the Brihadeeswarar Temple, showcasing
traditional dance forms.
Pongal: Celebrated with enthusiasm, marking the harvest season with rituals, feasts, and cultural
events.
Carnatic Music Festival: An annual event featuring performances by renowned artists in classical
music and dance.
Navaratri: Marked by vibrant celebrations, especially in the temples of Goddess Durga.
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Best Time to Visit Thanjavur
The best time to visit Thanjavur is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, with
temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. Summers (April to June) can be hot, with temperatures
exceeding 40°C, while the monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate rainfall, making
sightseeing a bit challenging.
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How to Reach Thanjavur
Thanjavur is well-connected to
major cities like Trichy (60 km), Chennai, and Madurai via state and private buses.
The Thanjavur Junction Railway
Station links the city to Chennai, Bangalore, and other major destinations.
The nearest airport is
Tiruchirapalli International Airport (Trichy), located about 60 km from Thanjavur, offering domestic
and international flights.
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Tourist Attractions in Thanjavur
Thanjavur is home to a wealth of historical, cultural, and spiritual landmarks:
Brihadeeswarar Temple: A masterpiece of Chola architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed
for its massive Nandi statue and intricately carved structures.
Thanjavur Palace: Also known as the Maratha Palace, it houses an art gallery, a library, and
historical artifacts.
Saraswathi Mahal Library: One of Asia's oldest libraries, boasting rare manuscripts, palm-leaf
inscriptions, and ancient texts.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram: A stunning temple built by the Cholas, reflecting their architectural
brilliance.
Thanjavur Art Gallery: Showcasing Chola bronzes, sculptures, and artifacts from South India's
glorious past.
Keeladi Archaeological Site: Located nearby, this site offers insights into ancient Tamil
civilization.
Grand Anicut (Kallanai): An ancient dam built by the Cholas on the Kaveri River, a testament to
their engineering expertise.
Tanjore Paintings Workshops: Visit local artisans to witness the creation of the famous Tanjore
paintings.
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Location
Thanjavur is situated in Tamil Nadu’s Cauvery Delta region, approximately 350 km south of Chennai.
Its central location and rich cultural heritage make it a vital destination for history buffs,
spiritual seekers, and lovers of traditional art forms.
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