I recently visited the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple) in Thanjavur, and it was a truly memorable experience. The temple, built over 1,000 years ago by Raja Raja Chola I, is an outstanding example of ancient Tamil architecture and craftsmanship. The massive Nandi statue at the entrance immediately caught my attention — carved from a single stone, it is one of the largest and most beautifully detailed Nandis in India. The main temple tower (vimana) is also breathtaking, rising high with intricate carvings that tell stories from history and mythology. What impressed me most was seeing people from different religions and backgrounds visiting the temple. Everyone came to admire its beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and historical importance. It truly shows how art and culture can bring people together. The temple looks especially beautiful in the evening when the lighting enhances the details of the sculptures and the stone glows warmly. The place feels calm and spiritual, making it perfect for both devotees and those who simply want to experience its cultural richness. Overall, the Big Temple in Thanjavur is not just a place of worship — it’s a living symbol of unity, history, and architectural brilliance. A must-visit for anyone traveling to Tamil Nadu!

A timeless marvel in stone. Visiting Brihadeeswara Temple was a deeply enriching experience. The scale and symmetry of the Chola architecture are breathtaking, especially the towering vimana that dominates the skyline. The temple grounds are clean and well-maintained, and the atmosphere is serene and spiritual. The intricate carvings, ancient inscriptions, and the massive Nandi statue reflect centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. Experiencing the temple at night was truly spectacular. The modern lighting blends seamlessly with the ancient stonework, highlighting the grandeur of the architecture without disturbing its authenticity. The illuminated vimana and courtyards create a majestic aura, enhancing the spiritual mood and making the whole visit unforgettable. A must-visit for anyone interested in history, heritage, or peaceful reflection..

Brihadeeshwara Temple—also known as the Big Temple—is one of India’s greatest architectural masterpieces and a true symbol of the Chola dynasty’s glory. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site feels like stepping into a world where art, devotion, and engineering brilliance come together seamlessly. The moment you enter the complex, the sheer scale of the temple leaves you awestruck. The towering Vimana (temple tower), carved from a single block of granite at the top, stands majestically against the sky. Despite being over 1,000 years old, the intricacy of the sculptures and the precision of the construction are unbelievable. Every wall, pillar, and corridor tells stories from Shaivism, mythology, and Chola culture. The Nandi mandapa, housing one of the largest monolithic Nandi statues in India, is another highlight. The statue’s smooth finish and grand presence add to the sacred ambience. The temple premises are very well maintained—clean, spacious, and peaceful despite the constant flow of visitors. Evening lighting enhances the beauty of the structure, making it look truly divine. The energy inside the sanctum, where Lord Shiva (Brihadeeshwara) is worshipped, feels powerful and serene. Whether you are a devotee, a history lover, or an architecture enthusiast, Brihadeeshwara Temple is an unforgettable experience. It stands as a proud reminder of India’s rich cultural heritage and the extraordinary genius of the Chola kings.

Visiting the Brihadeswara Temple in Thanjavur was a truly awe-inspiring experience. Coming from Kerala, where temple architecture has its own distinct charm, I was amazed by the sheer scale and grandeur of this Chola masterpiece. The towering vimana, carved entirely out of stone, is unlike anything I’ve seen before—it radiates both artistic brilliance and spiritual energy. The temple complex is well maintained, with spacious courtyards and intricate sculptures that tell stories from centuries past. The sense of history here is overwhelming; you can almost feel the legacy of the Chola dynasty in every stone. Evening hours, when the golden light falls on the temple walls, are especially magical. Practical notes: The temple is easily accessible, with good parking facilities nearby. Footwear needs to be left outside, so carrying socks helps if you’re visiting during hot afternoons. No good restaurants are nearby. Overall, this is not just a place of worship but a living museum of South Indian heritage. As a visitor from Kerala, I felt proud to witness such a magnificent monument of our shared cultural history.

My visit to Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur was an experience I’ll never forget. The moment I saw the towering vimana from a distance, I was completely awestruck. Standing in front of this thousand-year-old marvel, it’s hard not to feel amazed at what people achieved so many centuries ago without any modern technology. The temple is massive yet perfectly balanced, and every single carving tells a story from our history and faith. As I walked through the courtyard, I could feel the spiritual energy in the air. The stone floor, warm under the sun, seemed to carry centuries of prayers and footsteps. Despite the crowd, there was a calmness that made me want to stay longer. The Nandi statue, carved from a single stone, is unbelievably beautiful, and the details on the walls are so intricate that you can spend hours just admiring them. The temple is also very well maintained, with clean surroundings and helpful guides who share the fascinating history of Raja Raja Chola and the temple’s construction. Visiting at sunset made the place look even more divine — the golden light on the stones was simply magical. Brihadeeswara Temple isn’t just a monument; it’s a living piece of history and devotion. A must-visit for everyone who loves art, culture, and peace.

One of the most majestic and peaceful temples I’ve ever visited! The Brihadeeshwara Temple truly lives up to its name - grand, serene, and full of history. The Chola architecture is breathtaking, with intricate carvings and an atmosphere that feels timeless. I visited in the afternoon and stayed till evening. During the afternoon, the whole temple complex felt calm and soothing - I even took a short nap under the shade in the temple for a few hours and it was so relaxing. Later in the evening, when the temple lights came on, the entire structure glowed beautifully against the twilight sky. It was truly magical - the perfect blend of spirituality and artistry. A must-visit if you’re in or around Thanjavur. Make sure to stay till evening to see the temple illuminated - it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Thank you to the temple authorities for maintaining it so beautifully. 🙏 You can also plan to go to nearby temples along with Thanjavur like Srirangam, Chidambaram, Dindigul, Kumbakonam, Palani.

Our visit to Periya Kovil was truly memorable. The massive gopuram and intricate carvings left us in awe the moment we walked in. The temple complex is clean, spacious, and very well maintained. Even with the crowds, the atmosphere felt peaceful. It’s a wonderful place to explore history, architecture, and culture all in one. Definitely a must-visit when in Thanjavur. Don’t miss the night view — it’s absolutely mesmerizing

A must-visit historical gem in Thanjavur! The Thanjavur Maratha Palace is a beautiful blend of architecture, history, and culture. The palace complex houses impressive courtyards, grand halls, a library with ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, and a museum showcasing Maratha-era artifacts. The art and sculptures here are truly captivating. The view from the watchtower is worth the climb — you get a panoramic view of the city and the iconic Brihadeeswarar Temple in the distance. The place is well-maintained, though some parts could use a little more restoration. History lovers and architecture enthusiasts will especially enjoy this spot. Definitely recommend spending 1–2 hours exploring the palace and soaking in the royal legacy of the Marathas in Tamil Nadu.

Thanjavur Maratha Palace Overview Thanjavur Maratha Palace, also called the “Aranmanai,” was established in 1674 when the Maratha dynasty took control after the decline of the Cholas. It served as the royal residence and later became a hub for art, culture, and administration. The palace architecture beautifully blends Maratha and traditional Tamil styles, giving it a unique charm. --- Key Attractions 1. Royal Palace Complex Expansive courtyards and grand halls that reflect royal grandeur. Beautifully carved wooden pillars, balconies, and audience halls in typical Maratha style. Old murals and paintings on the walls provide insight into the dynasty’s rich history. 2. Art Gallery & Museum Exhibits include royal artifacts, ancient coins, weapons, and costumes. Houses original Tanjore paintings, one of the finest collections in India. Bronze sculptures, idols, and other cultural treasures are on display, making it a treat for history and art enthusiasts. 3. Palace Gardens Well-maintained gardens offering a peaceful stroll. Perfect spots for photography and relaxation after exploring the museum. --- Visitor Tips Tickets are required; museum entry may have a separate fee. Photography is allowed in some areas—always check before clicking. Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal for fewer crowds and better lighting. Local souvenir shops nearby sell handicrafts and miniature artifacts.

The Maratha Palace, also known as the Thanjavur Palace Complex, is a remarkable historical monument that reflects the grandeur and legacy of the Maratha rulers of Thanjavur. Located in the heart of Thanjavur city, this palace stands as a proud reminder of the region’s rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance. The complex houses several attractions — the Sadar Mahal Palace, Durbar Hall, Saraswathi Mahal Library, and the Art Gallery — each offering a glimpse into the opulence of the Maratha period. The Durbar Hall, with its beautifully painted ceilings and intricate stucco work, is particularly stunning and transports visitors to a bygone royal era. The Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest libraries in Asia, containing rare palm-leaf manuscripts and ancient Tamil, Telugu, and Sanskrit texts — a true treasure trove for scholars and history enthusiasts. The Art Gallery showcases an impressive collection of Chola bronze idols, stone sculptures, and ancient artefacts that highlight the artistic excellence of South India.

Another beautiful historical place and also palace in Thanjavur. Don't miss it if you are visiting Thanjavur. It's Chhatrapati Shivaji 's palace and has lots of historical significance. It's also a very pictures worthy place with beautiful backgrounds . Entry fee is 50Rupees . Enough parking space for 2 wheeler and 4 wheelers. There is also a small museum with household products of those era . A small library is also there if you want to know study more of that era .

Walking through this historic complex feels like stepping straight into the royal era. The architecture stands out instantly — tall corridors, detailed carvings, and those massive halls that still hold an old-world charm. The museum areas are packed with sculptures, manuscripts, paintings and artefacts that actually make the visit meaningful rather than just a quick walkthrough. The bell tower and durbar hall are absolute highlights, visually striking and full of character. The place is easy to locate and doesn’t feel rushed; you can comfortably spend a couple of hours exploring different sections at your own pace. Some parts show signs of age, but that adds to the heritage feel rather than taking away from it. If you enjoy history, culture and old architecture, this is definitely a spot that leaves you satisfied and a bit more connected to the region’s past.

A walk through Thanjavur’s royal past 👑 The Thanjavur Palace is not just a monument. Walking through its old halls, tall arches, and long corridors, you can almost imagine how grand life must have been centuries ago. There’s a lot to see here — the art gallery with its ancient Chola and Nayak paintings, the museum displaying beautiful bronze idols and royal artifacts, and the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which is truly special. Even if you’re not a history buff, just stepping into that library feels humbling — knowing some of those palm-leaf manuscripts are hundreds of years old. The tall Bell Tower (Watch Tower) offers a nice panoramic view of the palace complex, and the Durbar Hall with its intricate pillars and faded yet elegant murals really stands out. Some areas are a bit worn down, but that only adds to the charm — it feels real, lived-in, and honest. It’s a place that quietly reminds you of how rich and layered our history is. If you’re visiting Thanjavur, take your time here — not just to see, but to feel the place. 🏷️ Tags: #ThanjavurPalace #Thanjavur #TamilNaduHeritage #SaraswathiMahalLibrary #DurbarHall #IndianHistory #CholaNayakArchitecture #CulturalHeritage #IncredibleIndia #TravelTamilNadu

beautiful Maratha Palace shows the city’s royal history. Inside, there’s a museum, art gallery, and the Saraswathi Mahal Library. You can see old paintings, bronze statues, and royal collections. Nearby, people still make the traditional Veena by hand. Thanjavur is a place where history and art live together.

one of the oldest libraries in Asia called Saraswathi Mahal Library also known as Thanjavur Maharaja Serfoji's Saraswathi Mahal Library. It is one of the few remaining mediaeval libraries in the world constructed by Nayak and Thanjavur Maratha rulers. More than 49,000 manuscripts, both on paper and on palm leaves, are kept in this library. The manuscripts are of diverse languages like Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Manipravalam. There is a section of the museum with numerous old and rare collections, such as old medical manuals, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and other Sanskrit writings.

A hidden gem inside the Thanjavur Palace! Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest libraries in Asia, known for its rare palm-leaf manuscripts, ancient Tamil and Sanskrit texts, and beautifully preserved documents. You can view exhibits on medicine, literature, astronomy, and art. The quiet atmosphere and historical depth are truly captivating. Photography isn’t allowed, and handling books is restricted. A must-see for scholars, students, and culture lovers!

Credited as  first library of India, the Sarasvati Mahal Library was founded by the Nayak and Thanjavur Maratha rulers. It flourished under the patronage of Maharaja Serfoji housing 47,334 palm leaf manuscripts and texts in Tamil, Telugu, Sanskrit, Marathi, and English. It’s one of the very few libraries in the country to preserve literature from the medieval period. Many of these rare palm leaf manuscripts and books have now been made accessible to the public.

It is said that this is Asias first library. The majority of the books are in Tamil, and once upon a time, it was a lovely place to read. However, nowadays, it is crowded with tourists. Despite this, there are still many Tamil books on the shelves. The vibrant colors and beautiful artwork make the space very appealing.

The Saraswati Mahal Library in Thanjavur is a true hidden gem and a treasure trove for anyone interested in history, literature, or ancient manuscripts. Nestled within the palace complex, the library offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural and scholarly heritage of Tamil Nadu. The collection is absolutely impressive — centuries-old palm leaf manuscripts, rare books in multiple languages (including Sanskrit, Tamil, and Telugu), and beautiful ancient scripts. The small museum section gives you a peek into the literary and intellectual pursuits of the Maratha kings who once ruled here. The staff was polite and helpful, and the premises were clean and well-maintained. Photography inside is restricted, but it’s understandable given the age and rarity of the materials. I’d recommend setting aside at least an hour or two to explore at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a researcher, a history buff, or just a curious traveler, this place is definitely worth a visit.

The staff was polite and helpful, and the premises were clean and well-maintained. 50 rs Entry Fees per head timings 10 am to 1 pm after lunch 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm Saraswathi Mahal library, an art gallery and the Royal Museum with an interesting collection of artifacts, paintings, bronze statues books and many things

Very old library where we can learn our history..we can buy some old books..we they won't allow to borrow for reading.. There is a visual audio theater where they show a small film about tanjore history it's about 30 mins..tickets are 10 rs for adults..and it's starting from 10 am to 4 pm

It is a very powerful and sacred place, especially for those who believe in planetary influences and seek relief from Shani dosha. The temple has a deep spiritual atmosphere, and many devotees come here with strong faith to perform rituals and offer prayers. The main deity, Lord Saneeswaran, is worshipped with great devotion, and the temple architecture reflects traditional South Indian style, giving a divine and peaceful feeling. The temple is usually crowded, especially on Saturdays, which makes darshan time-consuming. Proper crowd management could make the experience smoother. Another point is that the surrounding area needs better cleanliness and parking arrangements for the convenience of devotees. Despite these issues, the spiritual vibration and the faith attached to this temple make it a must-visit. Overall, a highly divine place to experience blessings, though a bit more organization would enhance the comfort of visitors.

A must-visit temple, especially for devotees seeking relief from Sani (Saturn) dosham, as it is mostly visited by people with Sani afflictions. Before entering, you can take a dip in the nearby Nala Theertham (lake) or at least offer prayers there, then worship at the Pillaiyar shrine beside the lake and break a coconut. Inside, devotees offer prayers to Lord Saneeswaran and Lord Shiva. Free darshan is available, while a ₹100 ticket gives you access to a quicker special entrance. The temple is also famous for the Emerald Lingam, and its abhishekam is performed five times a day — we witnessed the evening one around 7:15 pm, which was a divine experience. Thankfully, the temple was not crowded during our visit on the last Saturday of August 2025, and everything was completed in one evening. We expected long queues but had a smooth darshan. Our trip even ended a day earlier than planned, making the experience peaceful and memorable.

I visited in pradosha pooja timing. Had a blissful darshanam on Saturday itself. Good positivity. There is Goshala and an Elephant inside the temple premises. Don't forget to light til deepam which is available for Rs.5 inside the temple premises.

I happened to visit during the Pradosham rituals, and the experience felt truly divine. Even though it was a Saturday, the darshan was smooth and filled with a sense of calm. The entire atmosphere carried a strong spiritual energy that instantly uplifted the mind. Within the temple grounds, there is also a well-maintained goshala and a majestic temple elephant, both adding to the traditional charm of the place. Make sure to offer a sesame oil lamp inside the premises—it's easily available for a small amount and is considered very auspicious.

Shri Dharbaranyeswaraswamy Devasthanam, also known as the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple, is truly one of the most sacred and spiritually powerful temples I have ever visited. Located in Thirunallar near Karaikal, Puducherry, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (worshipped here as Dharbaranyeswarar) and Lord Shani (Saneeswaran), making it a rare and unique place of worship. From the moment you enter, you can feel an aura of divinity. The temple’s architecture carries the grace of Chola style, with intricate carvings and a majestic gopuram that instantly fills you with reverence. The atmosphere inside is vibrant yet deeply peaceful, with the sound of Vedic chants, ringing bells, and the fragrance of camphor and flowers creating a spiritual ambiance. The highlight of the temple is the shrine of Lord Saneeswaran. Devotees from across India and abroad come here to seek relief from the malefic effects of Saturn in their horoscope and to pray for strength, prosperity, and mental peace. The sanctity of this place cannot be described in words - it has to be experienced. Despite being a very popular temple, the management ensures that darshan and puja arrangements are smooth. On regular days, darshan is calm and serene, while on Saturdays and festival days, the temple gets very crowded. It’s advisable to come early in the morning for a more peaceful darshan. There are facilities for special darshan tickets, and the priests perform pujas and archanais with devotion and care. Outside the temple, you’ll find numerous shops selling pooja items, prasadam, and souvenirs. The temple prasadam is simple yet divine. Pilgrims visiting with families will find enough amenities like parking areas, food stalls, and accommodation options nearby, though planning your trip in advance is highly recommended during peak times. What makes this temple truly special is not just the rituals or the structure, but the spiritual comfort it offers. Many devotees leave with a lighter heart and a renewed sense of hope after visiting. It is one of those rare places where faith and tradition meet in the most profound way. If you are visiting Puducherry, Karaikal, or even Tamil Nadu, this temple is an absolute must-visit. Whether you are a devotee of Lord Shiva, Lord Shani, or simply someone seeking peace and positivity, Shri Dharbaranyeswaraswamy Devasthanam will leave you with an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Thirunallar Temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shani (Saturn), enshrined alongside Lord Dharbaranyeswarar (Shiva). It is the only temple where Shani Bhagwan is worshipped with such prominence. People visit here to perform oil baths and prayers, especially during Shani Peyarchi, to overcome hardships and bring positive changes. The temple’s spiritual energy, serene surroundings, and ancient Dravidian architecture make it a powerful and peaceful pilgrimage destination. One can take a holy bath in Nalla Theertham before entering the temple. This willl purify one’s sins and remove the negative influence of Shani.

This is very famous Sanaiswaran temple in Thirunallar, Karaikkal dist, comes under UT of Puducherry. Lord Shiva, Ambal and Sani Bhagavan are very powerful. Sani bhagawan is One of Navagras. Very Vibrant temple. 3 or 4 Gurukkal / Archagas are always b4 Sani Bhagawan, so need to bend yourself more to get dharshan. They need to have more culture than expecting money. Car parking on the road but with charging. You need to be very careful. On week days the crowd is limited. Waiting time for dharshan is around 30 minutes. But in weekends, it will take hours and be prepared with money. Lots of vendors/ beggers, (inside & outside) the temple. No proper toilets or washroom Facilities available. Nearby lots of food outlets available. Lots of Taxi/ Van bus Facilities available even from Kumbakonam. Railway station is Karaikkal only.

Divine place. Calm temple. Powerful Guru Bhagavan. Suggestion: In the entrance, it will be better if temple authorities can place seats or chairs. So that aged people can sit and wait till the temple opens. The temple pond is so greeny and looks dirty. Please clean and maintain.

Guru sthalam and must visit temple.. I visited this temple on 27th Oct morning temple is not crowded.. Good parking available...

All temples in kumbhakonam highly appreciated and sanctity , powerful vibrations are there. But there is lacuna by govt, endowment dept, local authorities. They should maintain , ensure cleaning the temples 24/7. We must preserve this culture for next 1000 years.

Beautiful temple and famous for Guru Swamy (Lord Dhakshina Murthy). People are very co-operative and helpful there if we need anything. Many special Poojas are done on request if one has to perform any. You can reach out to temple management for more information regarding the cost and timings for the same. At present there's renovation and painting work going on all across the temple when we visited.

If you have any Guru dosha or need guru bala. This is the remedy you are looking for Guru Bhagavaan Temple, visit on Thursday wearing a yellow colour cloth. Lit 24 lamps. Lamps are available at the temple. Donate yellow cloth to the Guru Bhagavaan. If possible 11 lemons or pomegranate or both.

One of the navagraha temple. Built by chola kings.This temple is guru parikaarathalam. Sivan called as aabathsagayeshwarar and amman name is yelavarkuzhali amman. This temple was sung thirugnanasambandhar. Guru peyarchi times huge crowd in this temple. Thursday special poojas conducted in this temple. Near South kopuram two Wheeler can park. Temple is maintain good. Om nama sivaya🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

TEMPLE of importance. Guru Bhagavan blessings here is a special for human life on Earth. Deity Aapathsahayeswarar , blesses one, as his name explains.