Thanjavur (also known as Tanjore) derives its name from Tanjan - an asura (demon) who according to local legend, caused devastation and was killed by Sri Anandavalli Amman and Sri Neelamegapperumal. Tanjan's last request, that the city might be named after him, was granted. Thanjavur has the reputation of being the "Rice bowl of Tamil Nadu".  One of the best temples in South India, the Brahadeeshwarar temple or the Big Temple built by the greatest Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola, is that dynasty's finest contribution to Dravidan temple architecture.

ATTRACTIONS

Sri Brihadeeswarar Temple

Built by the great Chola King, Rajaraja.1 in the 10th century AD is an outstanding example of Chola architecture.

The Palace

The Palace near the temple is a vast building of masonry built partly by the Nayaks around 1550 AD and partly by the Marathas.

Art Gallery

In the Palace there are a number of granite and bronze statues of the Chola period.
Timings 9 a.m to 1.p.m., 2.p.m. to 6.p.m The Raja Chola Art Gallery has some fine pieces of stone and bronze sculptures from the 9th and 12th centuries.

Saraswathi Mahal Library

In another section of the palace is a library where over 30,000 palm leaves and paper manuscripts in Indian and European languages are preserved.