UNESCO Chola Temple Trail Private day trip from Trichy
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a captivating journey through the UNESCO Chola Temple Trail on a private day trip from Trichy. Begin your day with a 7:00 AM pick-up from your Trichy hotel and head to Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Explore the temple complex, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the Chola dynasty, with intricate carvings depicting mythological stories and historical events. Move on to Dharasuram to marvel at the Airavateshwara Temple, a masterpiece of Chola architecture, known for its exquisite stone carvings and chariot-shaped mandapam. Enjoy a delightful lunch, savoring the flavors of Tamil Nadu cuisine. Continue your journey to Thanjavur, where you'll visit the Royal Palace & Museum and the iconic Brihadeeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a towering vimana. Conclude your temple tour and return to Trichy by 7:00 PM, cherishing the rich heritage and cultural marvels witnessed throughout the day.
Available options
Car & Guide
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included
Car Only
Includes: Private Car with Driver.
<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide & Entrance
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.
<br/>Pickup included
What's included
English speaking local guide, if option selected.
Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.
Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.
Lunch, if option selected.
Government Taxes.
Bottled water in the car.
Detailed itinerary
1
7:00 AM - Pick up from your hotel in Trichy and depart for Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
2
Stop 2
9:30 AM - Arrive at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a temple complex built by the Chola dynasty in the 11th century. Explore the temple, known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings. Visit the Nandi Mandapa, Alankar Mandapa, Maha Mandapa, Mukha Mandapa, and Ardha Mandapa, which are all adorned with sculptures depicting various mythological stories and historical events. Your guide will provide insights into the historical and architectural significance of this temple.
3
10:30 AM - Depart from Gangaikonda Cholapuram and proceed to Darasuram.
11:30 AM - Arrive at Darasuram, famous for the Airavateshwara Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its exquisite stone carvings, particularly the front mandapam in the form of a chariot drawn by horses. Marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship of this temple, which is considered a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Your guide will share interesting facts and stories about the temple and its significance in Tamil Nadu's history and culture.
4
12:30 AM - Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Tamil Nadu cuisine, known for its unique blend of spices and flavors.
5
Stop 5
1:30 PM - Depart from Darasuram and head towards Thanjavur.
2:30 PM - Arrive at Thanjavur, visit the Thanjavur Palace & Museum, which houses an art gallery, a library, and a hall of music. Explore the rich heritage and history of the region through the various artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts on display. Marvel at the exquisite bronze and granite statues of the Chola period in the art gallery, and learn about the contributions of the Chola dynasty to art, culture, and music in the region. Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which preserves over 30,000 palm leaf and paper manuscripts in Indian and European languages, including rare and ancient texts.
6
4:00 PM - Visit the iconic Brihadeeshwara Temple, also known as the Big Temple. This temple, built by the Chola king Rajaraja I in the 10th century, is one of the largest and oldest temples in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the towering vimana (temple tower), which is one of the tallest in the world, and the intricate sculptures that adorn the walls of the temple. Your guide will provide insights into the history, architecture, and religious significance of this temple, which is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
7
5:30 PM - Conclude your temple tour and start your return journey to Trichy.
7:00 PM - Arrive back in Trichy and drop off at your hotel.
What's not included
Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Thanjavur
Thanjavur, a historic city in Tamil Nadu, is renowned for its magnificent temples, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. It's a treasure trove of Chola dynasty legacy, offering a glimpse into South India's glorious past with its architectural marvels and vibrant traditions.
Top Attractions
Brihadeeswarar Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 11th-century temple is a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it's renowned for its towering vimana (temple tower), which is the tallest in the world.
Historical/Religious/Architecture
2-3 hours
₹50 (Foreigners: ₹250)
Thanjavur Maratha Palace
This palace complex houses the Saraswathi Mahal Library, an art gallery, and the royal museum. It offers a glimpse into the region's Maratha and Nayak dynasty history.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
₹100 (Foreigners: ₹500)
Schwartz Church
Built by the British in the 18th century, this church is a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It's dedicated to the memory of a Danish missionary.
Historical/Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Thanjavur Royal Palace and Museum
This museum within the palace complex showcases a rich collection of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and royal regalia from the Maratha and Nayak periods.
Historical/Museum
1-2 hours
₹100 (Foreigners: ₹500)
Kallanai Dam
One of the oldest water-regulation structures in the world, this ancient dam on the Kaveri River is a marvel of ancient engineering and offers scenic views.
Nature/Historical
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Thanjavur Filter Coffee
A strong and aromatic coffee made with freshly ground coffee beans and served in a traditional metal tumbler and cup.
Drink
Caffeinated
Thanjavur Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with spices, meat (usually chicken or mutton), and served with raita and pappadam.
Lunch/Dinner
Non-vegetarian
Rasavangi
A sweet dish made from rice flour, jaggery, and coconut, often served during festivals and special occasions.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Thanjavur Sweet Pongal
A sweet dish made from rice, jaggery, and ghee, often served during festivals and special occasions.
Breakfast/Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Temple hopping
Exploring local markets
Visiting parks and gardens
Enjoying a traditional massage
Attending local festivals
Visiting museums and art galleries
Boating at Kallanai Dam
Not applicable
Best Time to Visit
October to February
This is the best time to visit Thanjavur as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temperature is mild, and the city hosts several festivals during this period.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Thanjavur is generally safe for travelers, but petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use metered taxis or app-based services.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Trichy International Airport • 60 km from Thanjavur
By train
Thanjavur Junction
By bus
Thanjavur New Bus Stand, Thanjavur Old Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
City buses are the most common mode of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Temple Street
Maratha Palace Area
New Bus Stand Area
Day trips
Swamimalai
20 km from Thanjavur • Half day
A small town known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, Swamimalai offers a peaceful and spiritual experience.
Kumbakonam
40 km from Thanjavur • Full day
A historic town known for its temples and educational institutions, Kumbakonam offers a rich cultural experience.
Trichy (Tiruchirappalli)
60 km from Thanjavur • Full day or overnight
A major city in Tamil Nadu, Trichy offers a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.
Festivals
Bhramotsavam • April
Float Festival (Theppam • February
Pongal • January
Pro tips
- Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Hire a local guide for a more detailed and insightful experience at historical sites.
- Try Thanjavur filter coffee, a local specialty that's a must-try for coffee lovers.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts, but be prepared to bargain.
- Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
