Things To Do
in Tanjore
Tanjore, also known as Thanjavur, is a city located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, especially its impressive Tanjore paintings and magnificent temples, such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple. Tanjore is also famous for its classical music and dance forms, including Bharatanatyam.
The city attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore its historical sites and experience its vibrant traditions.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $0.50 - $2
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the grand Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture. Spend time admiring the intricate carvings and learn about its historical significance.
Explore the Tanjore Palace, where you can marvel at the art and history of the Chola dynasty. The palace museum houses fascinating artifacts and royal memorabilia.
Head to the local market and soak in the vibrant atmosphere while picking up some traditional Tanjore art. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant serving authentic South Indian cuisine.
Visit the Tanjore painting workshop to see artisans at work creating exquisite traditional paintings. Engage with artists and understand the techniques involved in this celebrated art form.
Go to the Saraswati Mahal Library, famous for its collection of ancient manuscripts. Spend time exploring the rich literary heritage it offers.
Relax at a local café with some south Indian coffee while reviewing the day's learnings. Consider trying a traditional dance performance if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a history of art and music.
- Home to the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Vibrant local festivals and traditions that attract tourism.
- Delicious South Indian cuisine, particularly known for its unique flavors.
- Strong sense of community and friendly local residents.
- Limited infrastructure compared to larger cities.
- Can be hot and humid, particularly during summer months.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue in urban areas.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and traditional industries.
- Access to some modern amenities and healthcare facilities may be lacking.
Best Activities in Tanjore
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site known for its magnificent architecture and cultural significance.
Enjoy a visit to the historic church built during the colonial period, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Experience the diverse bird species and serene natural surroundings at this popular bird sanctuary.
Discover the city's rich history and vibrant culture while cycling through its streets and scenic spots.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tanjore with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tanjore
Visit one of these nice places.
This ancient temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning architectural views and photo opportunities.
A serene park with beautiful gardens and scenic views, perfect for capturing the beauty of Tanjore.
The palace complex offers a glimpse into history and provides picturesque backdrops for photography.
Food in Tanjore
Tanjore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional sweet dish made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour, often garnished with cashews and almonds. You can savor this delectable dessert at notable sweet shops like Adyar Ananda Bhavan and local sweet stalls in Tanjore.
Must-Try!
A spicy and flavorful chicken dish, marinated with South Indian spices such as pepper, fennel, and coriander, cooked to perfection. Visit local eateries like Ahaaram Restaurant and Anbu Park Hotel to relish this succulent preparation.
This aromatic rice delicacy, prepared with tenderly cooked meat, and spices, promises an explosion of flavors. Head to renowned biryani joints like Thalapakkati Restaurant and Shanmuga Vilas to taste this iconic Tanjore delight.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tanjore better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market brimming with fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls offering local delights such as Kuzhi Paniyaram, a savory rice and lentil batter dumpling. It's a must-visit for an authentic street food experience.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of street food options, this market is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking regional snacks like Murukku and Thattai, perfect for a quick, flavorsome bite on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tanjore, it is important to greet others with respect, such as using the traditional Indian greeting of 'Namaste' with a slight bow.
It is essential to respect the religious customs and practices in Tanjore, such as removing shoes before entering a place of worship and dressing modestly.
Humility and politeness are highly valued in Tanjore, so it's important to speak and act with humility and avoid confrontational or aggressive behavior.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tanjore with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tanjore
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tanjore, India, tipping is not a common practice in most places. However, in upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is not necessary. If exceptional service is provided, a small tip may be given as a token of appreciation.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Tanjore, India. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, especially in more urban areas. It's always advisable to carry enough cash, especially when traveling to more rural or remote areas, as not all places may accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tanjore.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tanjore. The weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C. This season is ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions.
Hot and humid weather with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 40°C. Not recommended for outdoor activities due to the extreme heat.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the lush greenery is a sight to behold, outdoor activities might be hampered due to the rain.
Tanjore at Night
Hiking in Tanjore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountain range located about 70 km from Tanjore, offering various hiking trails with beautiful views and lush greenery.
Located about 45 km from Tanjore, Pillaiyarpatti is known for its hills and scenic nature trails, perfect for a day hike.
Approximately 100 km from Tanjore, this reserve offers several trekking routes amidst rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
About 125 km from Tanjore, this place is renowned for its hiking paths that traverse through dense forests and hills.
Situated around 75 km from Tanjore, these hills offer several trails that are popular among locals for weekend hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tanjore through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tanjore by plane.
Located approximately 55 km from Tanjore, this airport serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated about 330 km from Tanjore, it is one of the busiest airports in India, offering extensive international connectivity.
Located around 207 km from Tanjore, this airport provides several international flights, primarily to Southeast Asia.
Approximately 135 km from Tanjore, this airport primarily handles domestic flights with a few international connections.
Located about 380 km from Tanjore, it is the first fully solar-powered airport in the world and serves numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Tanjore, comprising around 85% of the population, with various sub-groups including Brahmins, Vanniyars, and Chettiyars.
A significant minority in Tanjore, accounting for about 10% of the population, with a diverse community engaged in various professions.
This group constitutes around 5% of the population, with significant historical presence due to missionary activities in the region.
Includes smaller communities such as Jains and Sikhs, representing a very small percentage of the overall demographic.
The Soul of Tanjore
Discover the essence of Tanjore through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Tanjore, with many local clubs and schools actively participating in matches and tournaments.
Kabaddi enjoys a strong following in Tanjore, often played in villages and during rural festivals.
Football has a growing fan base, with schools and communities organizing leagues and friendly matches.
Athletics is promoted in schools, with many students participating in district and state-level competitions.
Games like Pallanguzhi and Aadu Puli Aatam are played in villages, reflecting the local culture and community spirit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tanjore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tanjore is a haven for vegetarians, with a plethora of establishments such as Punjabi Dhaba and Sree Annapoorna Sweets, offering a wide range of vegetarian delicacies, including dosas, idlis, and traditional Tamil Nadu thalis.
While vegan-specific establishments are limited, many restaurants and street food vendors offer vegan-friendly dishes. Ensure to communicate your dietary preferences to the staff for customized vegan options.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can relish traditional rice-based dishes like dosas, idiyappam, and appam, readily available at local eateries. Communicate your dietary restrictions to ensure a hassle-free dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tanjore with these cultural adventures.
