Temples in Thanjavur
Thanjavur was the capital of the Chola kings, and its temples are among the most important in South India. The Brihadeeswarar Temple, known locally as the Big Temple or Peruvudaiyar Kovil, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and still an active Shiva temple more than a thousand years after it was built.
The town is also a good base for the other great Chola temples nearby. Remember that these are working places of worship, so dress modestly and follow the rules at each temple.
Famous Temples in Thanjavur
Brihadeeswarar Temple was built by Raja Raja Chola I and finished around 1010 CE. Its granite tower, or vimana, rises about 66 m above the sanctum, and a large Nandi carved from a single stone faces the shrine. Together with the temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, it forms the UNESCO-listed Great Living Chola Temples.
Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, near Kumbakonam, is about 35–40 km from Thanjavur. It is a smaller Chola temple known for its fine stone carving, including a front hall shaped like a chariot.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram, about 70 km away, was built by Raja Raja's son Rajendra Chola I as the centre of his new capital. Its tower is shorter than Thanjavur's but just as grand.
Schwartz Church, near Sivaganga Park and the Big Temple, was built in 1779 by the Maratha ruler in honour of the missionary Christian Friedrich Schwartz. It is a quiet place of worship with a well-known marble sculpture inside.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Thanjavur
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Leave your shoes at the entrance, and visit early or late, as the granite floor gets very hot.
- The sanctum usually closes for a few hours in the afternoon, roughly 12:30 to 4 pm, so plan darshan for the morning or evening.
- Photos are usually allowed in the courtyard, but not inside the sanctum or during rituals.
- Keep your phone on silent and speak quietly near the shrines.
- Hire a guide at the Big Temple if you want to understand the carvings and inscriptions.
- Timings change on festival days, so check before you go.
Questions
Thanjavur — FAQ
What are the famous temples in and around Thanjavur?
The most famous is the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur. The other Great Living Chola Temples, Airavatesvara at Darasuram and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, are within day-trip distance.
Can non-Hindus visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple?
Yes. The Big Temple is open to visitors of all faiths, and many guides and visitors report that non-Hindus can also join the queue for darshan. Rules can change, so follow the instructions of temple staff.
Why is it called the Big Temple?
It was one of the largest temples in India when it was built, around 1010 CE. Its tower is about 66 m tall, and it is still one of the tallest temple towers in South India.
How much time do I need to see the temples near Thanjavur?
Spend 2–3 hours at the Big Temple. A day trip to Darasuram and Gangaikonda Cholapuram takes most of a day by car, so plan a full extra day if you want to see all three Chola temples.