Overview
Visit one of the Great Living Chola Temples, a UNESCO world Heritage Site and discover the remarkable legacy of the Chola Kingdom that extended from Madurai to the Mekong valley in its heydays. This dizzying historical legacy can be seen in Thanjavur, capital of the great Chola Empire. Also visit the city's labyrinthine royal palace that preserves memories of other, later powerful dynasties.
Highlights
• Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Thanjavur Royal Palace
• Saraswati Mahal Library
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water per person
Local English speaking guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
Food or drink, unless specified
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
What to expect
-
1 hour
You will be picked up from fixed point / hotel leave for sightseeing.
The Cholas established a powerful monarchy in the 9th century AD at Thanjavur and in its surroundings. They enjoyed a long, eventful rule, lasting for four and a half centuries with great achievements in all fields such as military conquest, efficient administration, cultural assimilation and promotion of art. The Great Living Chola Temples were built by kings of the Chola Empire, which stretched over all of South India and the neighbouring islands. The site includes three great 11th- and 12th-century Temples: the Brihadeswara Temple at Thanjavur, the Brihadeswara Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple at Thanjavur is a great example of the rich Chola architecture. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Besides beautiful wall sculptures, the temple also has some exquisitely painted frescoes. -
Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery
1 hour
The museum is located within the Thanjavur Royal Palace that was the official residence of the Bhonsle dynasty that ruled over Thanjavur from 1674 to 1855. The museum has preserved various items like paintings, manuscripts and statues from the temples of Thanjavur. The beautiful stone sculptures of the Pandya, Chola, Nayaka and Pallava periods are added attractions at the museum.
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The Serfoji Sarasvati Mahal Library
1 hour
It is one among a few medieval libraries existing in the world. It is an unparalleled repository of culture and an inexhaustible treasure house of knowledge built up by successive dynasties of Nayaks and the Marathas of Thanjavur. It contains very rare and valuable collections of manuscripts, books, maps and paintings on all aspects of Art, Culture and Literature. The Encyclopaedia Britannica in its survey of the Libraries of the world mentions this as "the most remarkable Library in India".
Once your tour will be finished you will be driven back to fixed point / your hotel.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Asia/Kolkata).
Additional Information
- Temple opens 06.00 to 12.00 & 16.00 to 20.00 hours & Palace visit timings are from 09.30 to 16.30 hours.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Visit Brihadeeswara Temple, Saraswati Library, Palace And Gallery In Thanjavur
Can I cancel Visit Brihadeeswara Temple, Saraswati Library, Palace And Gallery In Thanjavur for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 5 hours.
Is pickup offered?
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
What's included?
- Entrance fees
- 02 bottles of mineral water per person
- Local English speaking guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
What's not included?
- Food or drink, unless specified
- Gratuities (optional)
Which places does it visit?
It visits Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery, The Serfoji Sarasvati Mahal Library.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by SITA World Tours







