One-Day Great Living Chola Temples Tour | Private Car Package
Active
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
For the traveler with limited time who doesn't want to miss out on history, our intensive One-Day Great Chola Temples Tour is the perfect solution. This private car package is a whirlwind journey through the architectural marvels of the Chola dynasty, covering all three magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites in a single, memorable day. This tour is designed for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers who wish to experience the essence of the Chola empire's legacy efficiently and comfortably.
Why Choose Us?
Time-Efficient: See all three Great Living Chola Temples in a single day, perfect for those on a tight schedule.
Private & Comfortable: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned private car dedicated solely to your group.
UNESCO World Heritage Focus: A tour designed specifically to cover the three most important Chola architectural sites.
Hassle-Free Experience: We manage all the driving and navigation, allowing you to focus on the history and beauty of the temples.
Available options
One-Day Great Living Chola Temples Tour | Private Car Package
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.
All highway tolls, Parking fees, and State permit charges.
Bottled water in the car.
Detailed itinerary
1
We start at the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site in Thanjavur. You will have approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to explore its towering Vimana, the monolithic Nandi statue, and the surrounding complex.
2
Visit the UNESCO site renowned for its intricate stone carvings and artistic details. You will have about 1.5 hours to admire the temple's beauty.
3
Stop 3
Explore the majestic temple built by Rajendra Chola I. You will have approximately 1.5 hours to discover this stunning replica of the Big Temple in its serene setting.
4
Stop 4
As a final stop, we visit the historic Thanjavur Maratha Palace complex. You will have approximately 1 hour to explore the Royal Palace Museum and the Art Gallery, which houses a magnificent collection of bronze statues.
What's not included
Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Most travelers can participate
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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
Instant confirmation
