Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The city of Tanjore, formally called Thanjavur, is rich in culture, history, and religious significance. It is a sanctuary where devotion and art coexist in the centre of Tamil Nadu, India. Tanjore’s temples, renowned for their exquisite Dravidian architecture, are not just houses of worship but also timeless architectural wonders. These temples in Tanjore are particularly notable for their spiritual significance, architectural magnificence, and historical relevance, attracting tourists worldwide.
9 Best Temples In Tanjore
Let us explore temples in Tanjore, your trip to these ancient temples will undoubtedly be worthwhile because of their magnificent architecture and religious significance.
1. Brihadeeswarar Temple
Photo: Vengolis / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best examples of the Chola dynasty’s architecture skill is the Brihadeeswarar Temple, popularly known as the Big Temple. This temple is a marvel of Dravidian architecture, constructed in the early 11th century by Raja Raja Chola I. With a height of almost 216 feet, the imposing vimana, or temple tower, is among the tallest in the world. Hindu mythological stories are told through intricate sculptures and frescoes that adorn the temple’s expansive grounds.
Best Time To Visit: Evening after 5 PM
2. Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple
Photo: Mumbailensman / Wikimedia Commons
The Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple was built by Rajendra Chola I, the son of Raja Raja Chola I, to honour his successful trips to the Ganges’ banks. This temple is comparable to the Brihadeeswarar Temple in terms of both architectural beauty and spiritual aura, albeit being somewhat smaller than its predecessor. The temple is well known for its distinctive Shiva Lingam, elaborate sculptures, and tall vimana.
Best Time To Visit: November to January
3. Airavatesvara Temple
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Rajaraja Chola II’s 12th-century Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, is an example of the Cholas’ inventive architectural style. The “Great Living Chola Temples” UNESCO World Heritage Site includes this temple. In contrast to the imposing vimanas of Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the attraction of Airavatesvara is found in its modest but wonderfully carved vimana and its detailed sculptures. The temple’s chariot-like design and its many sculptures and inscriptions provide insights into Chola period sociocultural life.
Best Time To Visit: October to November
4. Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple
Photo: Rsmn / Wikimedia Commons
Among the temples in Thanjavur, the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple stands out due to its devotion to Lord Shani (Saturn), a deity connected to punishment and judgement. This temple, which is located in the tiny hamlet of Thirunallar, is a popular destination for pilgrims who are looking for solace from the negative consequences of Saturn’s passage in their astrological charts. The primary deity is housed in a golden vimana, which is part of the temple’s traditional construction.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9 PM
5. Thiruvanajozhi Temple
Despite being less well-known than the imposing buildings of the Brihadeeswarar or Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the Thiruvanajozhi Temple is nonetheless charming and significant. This temple is dedicated to Vishnu and has a calm environment and ancient Dravidian architecture with exquisitely carved pillars. Offering a peaceful setting for devotion and introspection, it holds great spiritual significance for Vaishnavites.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
6. Swami Malai Temple
Photo: Ravik / Wikimedia Commons
One of Lord Murugan’s six abodes (Arupadai Veedu), Swami Malai Temple is tucked away on a little hillside and is highly regarded in Tamil religious tradition. This temple offers a broad perspective of the surrounding regions and is notable for its spiritual atmosphere against a backdrop of beautiful foliage. The name Swami Malai comes from mythology, which states that Lord Murugan, in his infant form, taught his father, Lord Shiva, the meaning of the sacred mantra “Om.” With 60 steps leading to the sanctum sanctorum, which corresponds to the 60 years in the Tamil calendar, the temple’s construction is symbolic.
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
7. Vellai Puliar Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only
Despite its modest size in comparison to Thanjavur’s opulent temples, the Vellai Puliar Temple has a special place in the hearts of the locals. The temple is a haven of simplicity and tranquillity in the middle of the busy town, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped here in a unique white form. White Ganesha, also known as Vellai Puliar, is a god who is said to help believers overcome hurdles and gain clarity in their lives.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
8. Pragatheeswarar Temple
Photo: RDNE Stock project / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Pragatheeswarar Temple is well-known for its exquisite architecture and serene atmosphere. It is especially well-known for its lingam, Pragatheeswarar, which is adored by followers for its heavenly ability to bless and heal. The temple’s walls are decorated with elaborate carvings that portray a variety of deities and scenarios from mythology, making it a superb example of Dravidian artistry.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
9. Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
Photo: Muralikrishna m / Wikimedia Commons
Another significant place of worship for Lord Murugan is the Sikkal Singaravelan Temple. This temple is unique because the deity is Singaravelan, wielding the Vel (spear), which represents triumph over evil. This temple has immense mythical significance because of a narrative that says Lord Murugan slew the demon Soorapadman by using his Vel, which he acquired from Goddess Parvati.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 5 PM – 8 PM
The temples in Tanjore are more than just physical constructions; they are living examples of an unmatched architectural talent, a rich cultural legacy, and a profound spirituality. Every temple narrates a tale of devotion, craftsmanship, and community, from the majestic vimanas of Brihadeeswarar and Gangaikonda Cholapuram to the calm tranquillity of Vellai Puliar and Pragatheeswarar. So, to experience the spirituality and culture contact book your trip to Tanjore with TripXL and make the best memories of your life.
Cover Photo: Aadhithyan Pandian / Pexels
