Thanjavur
A deltaic city of temples & traditions
Named after a demon in Hindu mythology slayed by an avatar of Lord Vishnu, the city of Thanjavur (or Tanjore) is situated upon the delta of the river Cauvery. Thanjavur’s Brihadeeshwara Temple of exemplary architecture and the Maratha Palace that served as an official residence for an empire, are the two prominent landmarks of the city. Thanjavur has been a centre of art and culture for years, with distinct painting, music and dance traditions: Tanjore paintings with murals of Lord Krishna are sought-after artefacts, Carnatic music has been codified since the 16th Century, and the dance form, Bharatnatyam traces significant styles and modifications to the city.