Things to do in  Thanjavur

A must for art and history lovers, this sprawling palace complex in Tamil Nadu was first constructed by the Nayak dynasty in 1535. After being captured by Maratha rulers 150 years later, the palace’s new owners added their own unique contributions. The result is an eclectic mix of temples, towers, and halls, now home to several museums.

One of the three “Living Temples” protected by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites (along with Airavatesvara and Gangaikonda Cholapuram temples), Brihadisvara Temple has been a site of Shiva worship in Tamil Nadu for over a millennium. Built in the 11th century during South India’s Chola dynasty, it still draws millions of devotees each year, while tourists come to admire its intricate stone carvings.

For almost three centuries, Gangaikonda Cholapuram served as the capital of the Chola Empire, which once stretched from southern India to Sri Lanka. Today, this city in Tamil Nadu is known for the grandeur of its Chola-built architectural landmarks. Among them, the Brihadisvara Temple—still a place of active Shiva worship—is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and most revered.