'THANJAVUR'- Capital of Cholas

Thanjavur is a significant centre of South Indian art, culture and architecture. Most of the Great Existing Chola Temples, and UNESCO World Heritage Monument are to be found in an around Thanjavur. The leading among the Great Living Chola temples, the Brihadeeswara Temple or Big Temple, is placed in the middle of the town. Thanjavur is also the place of origin of the Tanjore painting, a painting style exclusive to the area. The town is a principal agricultural centre situated at the heart of the region, known as the "rice bowl of Tamil Nadu". South Zone Culture Centre in Thanjavur is one of various regional cultural centres recognized by Indian Government to preserve and encourage traditional cultural heritage of India.

The important landmark in Thanjavur is the great Brahadeeswara Temple also known as the Big Temple, it was built by Raja Raja Chola - I. It is one of the most magnificent piece of South Indian temple architecture. Established in 1011 AD in celebration of victory of Chola kingdom that extended till Ceylon and some parts of the Malaya archipelago. Now it is a world heritage site.

Even today Thanjavur is not only considered as the rice bowl of tamil nadu but also as a cultural head quarters. Though the Thanjavur district is dominated by agriculture, the town is diverse in its own, Having a literacy percentage of more that 75% and a homogenous mix of population of all religions.

Big Temple in the Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu has frequently been called `the temple of temples'. Built exactly before 1000 years, during the golden days of Chola rule, it is possibly one of the most excellent expressions of artistic excellence that could be conceived of. Built by the best of Chola emperor Rajaraja, this temple was named after him as Rajarajesvaram, it means `the temple of the Isvara (God) of Rajaraja'. Later on, it became known as the Brihadisvara temple significance the temple of the `Great Isvara'

One of the most outstanding attractions in Thanjavur is Art Gallery and Museum. Tamil University Museum has a collection of coins and musical instruments, stone and bronze sculptures paitings etc. Another appeal here is the Schwartz Church, situated in the palace garden which was built in 1779 A.D by Rajah Serfoji. At Thanjavur, there are many eminent museums having interesting collections of stone sculpture, coins and musical instruments. In the middle of these museums, the Nayak Durbar Hall Art Museum and the Rajaraja Chola Museum are the most notable. They hold magnificent collection of Chola Bronzes-all discovered locally.

The Tanjore Paintings of Thanjavur are celebrated for their special style of decorating the paintings. They are done together on glass and board. In both types, the figures and the background are luxuriously ornamented with gold leaf and gems. The theme of this painting is mostly related to Lord Krishna in which he is shown in a variety of poses. But there are also a range of paintings in temples, of all the other Gods and Saints.

By Air:

Nearest International Airport is Tirichirapally (50 km). There are direct flights from Singapore, Kolalumbur, Dubai, Kuwait as well as domestic Airports.

By rail:

Thanjavur is also accessible by train from other major Indian cities. There are daily trains from/to Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Trichy and to all main cities. For train timings and on-line reservations (within India) visit the IRCTC's website.

By bus:

There are a number of state and private buses that ply daily from Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai andTrichy. The journey from Chennai takes about 9 hours and nearly 1 hour from Trichy. There are over-night buses.