Thanjavur throws light on the important historical and chronological events that had an impact on the social, political and cultural scenario during the ancient times. Thanjavur has been the cradle of civilization during the traditional period. The ancient city of Thanjavur rose to prominence in the 12th and 13th centuries under the able rulers of the Chola dynasty.
Under the patronage of the Chola kings, Thanjavur flourished in the fields of art, literature and architecture. Among the mighty rulers of the Chola dynasty, Karikala and Koccengan were the most successful administrators who helped in the development of Sangam Literature. The rulers of the Chola dynasty constructed beautiful temples and monuments that added to the grandeur of Thanjavur.
Thanjavur Royal Palace is one of the famous historical destinations of Thanjavur which is located within the Vijayanagara Fort complex. This palace was the house of the Nayak Kings of Thanjavur and was constructed in 16th century.
A popular tourist destination, Grand Anicut is located at a distance of 47 Kms from Thanjavur. This place is known as Kallanai and is one of the oldest dams of the world. This attractive site was made in 1st Century AD on the Cauvery River by the Chola King Karikalan.
Located within the Thanjavur Royal Palace, Thanjavur Art Gallery is a renowned tourist site of the town. This Art Gallery offers a big collection of bronze and stone statues and idols belonging to the Chola period. The Gallery reminds of 8th to 18th centuries and an idol of Raja Serfoji is the main attraction of this Thanjavur Art Gallery.
Brihadeshwar temple is one of the famous tourist attractions of Thanjavur which is also known as Rajarajesvaram and is devoted to Lord Shiva. This temple was constructed by Rajaraja Chola I in the early 11th century and was made in Dravidian style of architecture. Shivalinga is amid the prime attraction of this temple which is 2.7 m in height.
Swami Malai temple is at a distance of 35 Kms from Thanjavur and lies atop a 60 feet high artificial hillock. This temple is listed among the six sacred houses of Lord Murugan and others include Palani, Pazhamudhircholai, Thiruparamkundram, Thiruthani and Thiruchendur.
The panchayat town of Darasuram is nestled at a distance of around 3kms from Kumbakonam in Thanjavur District of Tamil Nadu. It is popular for being the abode of the 12th century old Airavateswara temple built by Rajaraja Chola II. The temple is one of the finest example of Dravidian style architecture that has now been recorded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.